Incense is an aromatic biotic material that releases fragrant smoke when burnt. The term is used for either the material or the aroma. It may also be used as a simple deodorant or insect repellent. Incense is composed of aromatic plant materials, often combined with essential oils. Incense can generally be separated into two main types: "indirect-burning" and "direct-burning.
Direct-burning incense or "combustible incense" is lit directly by a flame and then fanned or blown out, leaving a glowing ember that smoulders and releases a smoky fragrance. Direct-burning incense is either a paste formed around a bamboo stick, or a paste that is extruded into a stick or cone shape. Combustible bouquets were used by the ancient Egyptians , who employed incense in both pragmatic and mystical capacities. Incense was burnt to counteract or obscure malodorous products of human habitation, but was widely perceived to also deter malevolent demons and appease the gods with its pleasant aroma.
The Babylonians used incense while offering prayers to divine [ 8 ] oracles. This was the first usage of subterranean plant parts in incense. The oldest textual source on incense is the Vedas , specifically the Atharvaveda and the Rigveda. Its use in medicine is considered the first phase of Ayurveda , which uses incense as an approach to healing.
As Hinduism matured and Buddhism was founded in India, incense became an integral part of Buddhism as well. Around CE, a group of wandering Buddhist monks introduced incense stick making to China. At around BCE, Ancient China began the use of incense in the religious sense, namely for worship. Brought to Japan in the 6th century by Korean Buddhist monks , who used the mystical aromas in their purification rites, the delicate scents of Koh high-quality Japanese incense became a source of amusement and entertainment for nobles in the Imperial Court during the Heian Era years later.
During the 14th-century Ashikaga shogunate , a samurai warrior might perfume his helmet and armor with incense to achieve an aura of invincibility as well as to make a noble gesture to whoever might take his head in battle. A variety of materials have been used in making incense. Historically there has been a preference for using locally available ingredients.
