Purchasing incense for the first time may seem a bit confusing, especially with several options out there. However, we will show you all you need to know before buying the best incense sticks in this guide.
Before buying incense, it can be challenging to know the burning quality or the scent before trying it. Therefore, we have come up with this beginner's guide and review of the best incense sticks to help you understand the intricacies of choosing the best incense sticks out there. Incense sticks can significantly influence the way your home or personal space smells and feels, which is why you need to be careful about your choices in this regard.
What is incense?
Incense is simply any organic material that can be burned to release nice-smelling smoke. They are often burnt in places of worship by many religions, some of them being used for several centuries now. People use incense for ceremonial reasons, spiritual reasons, or just because it smells good.
Things to consider before buying incense stick
Before you purchase an incense stick online or offline, here are a few tips that should help you make better-informed decisions in that regard.
· Length of stick
Usually, the longer the stick, the longer it will take to burn out. Also, longer sticks bring more fragrance, thus enveloping the room with their scent for extended spells.
· Quantity of the stick
When buying a scent for the first time, it is ideal you go for a smaller pack. Many of the brands out there are known to produce a small-batch variety pack which gives you the option of trying a varying range of scents without sticking to one.
· Purpose of the stick
Some scents are used in meditation and yoga practices, while others are used to remove negative energy. It doesn't matter if you are buying for meditative reasons or searching by scent profile; you need to search into the essentials behind the scent to know what appeals most to you.
· Synthetic vs. natural
When scouting for incense, it is essential that you buy based on the coating or dip. Be careful with products that come with labels indicating "all-natural" because they may be misleading. The ideal ingredient list ought to consist of herbs, wood, and plant-based materials. Do not use charcoal-based incense indoors because it may contain toxic constituents. Also, avoid using vibrantly colored incense sticks and those that have rather pungent smells. Always use your nose as a tester of the aroma of the natural incense because it is usually subtle and soft. If the scent smells like perfume, this will tell you that it is made using synthetic ingredients.
Types of incense scents
In addition to the different types of incense out there, there are also different scent types. Each fragrance is created to eliminate negative energies from the room while giving it a very harmonious atmosphere. Here is a breakdown of the other scent types:
· Lavender
This scent represents attraction and romance and is usually used by couples looking to spend some sweet quality time together.
· Zender
If you have just finished renovating your apartment, this scent of cedar may be the perfect choice for you. The cedar symbolizes power and strength and helps to create a peaceful and harmonious home.
· Cinnamon
Cinnamon is regarded as one of the most popular fragrances out there and finds actual life application in relationships because of its being associated with passion.
· Frankincense
This is perhaps one of the most effective incenses, and it is usually used in religious and traditional masses. The fragrance is reputed to release quietness and peace and helps cut down stress and anxiety.
· Vanilla flavor
Asides from being popular, vanilla also has a reputation of being pleasant. This fragrance symbolizes intelligence and mental ability, and it helps in improving learning ability and concentration.
· Bernstein
For people who want to maximize their meditation, the smell of Amber does a great job. This smell helps in cutting down stress and boosting mental clarity.
· Jasmine
The Jasmine scent is perfect for couples and friends as it helps in improving emotional and mental connections while inner beauty is further expressed.
Some essential tips you must never ignore
Ensure you only burn your incense in a safe environment. Also, keep pets and children as far away from burning incense as possible. Additionally, it would help if you only burned the incense in a properly ventilated environment as you don't want your room to be filled up with smoke. Avoid leaving the incense to burn as you may fall asleep continually. If you're going to turn the incense off, ensure you use some water and note that it is still lit if you still see smoke.
Furthermore, you may want to consider buying an incense stick holder as this will ensure that you are burning your incense as safely as possible. There are different options out there in terms of size, shapes, and designs to choose from. Your incense is going to be safer if you are using the right holder.
FAQs of the best incense sticks
Q. What is the best way to light my incense sticks?
A. Begin by picking up an adequately ventilated area on a heat-resistant surface detached from anything such as lampshades, papers, or curtains. Ensure that you are using a place far from open windows as it could knock the incense over and put out the flame. Also, ensure that your incense stick is far from children and pets.
Q. How long should my incense stick burn?
A. Incense sticks usually burn for up to 45 minutes depending on several factors such as thickness, length, environment, and quality.
Q. Can I carry the incense on a plane?
A. Yes, you can be based on the TSA rules. Incense sticks and powder can be packed inside carry-on bags without quantity limitations.