
A Complete Guide to Using and Burning Incense
Incense, derived from the Latin word “incendere,” meaning “to burn,” is one of the oldest ceremonial and therapeutic tools known to humankind. It first appeared in Ancient Egypt and was later used by nearly all ancient civilizations. Incense played a prominent role in many spiritual practices and is often mentioned in sacred texts, including the Bible, as a way to communicate with the divine, purify spaces, and enhance spiritual focus. Today, incense remains a highly valued tool for meditation, rituals, cleansing, and creating a peaceful atmosphere at home.
A History of the Spiritual Use of Incense
The use of incense in spiritual practice dates back thousands of years, with ancient cultures around the world recognizing its power to elevate rituals, honor deities, and cleanse spaces.
Ancient Egypt
Incense was deeply embedded in Egyptian religious ceremonies as early as 3000 BCE. Egyptians believed that the smoke of burning incense connected them with their gods, serving as a pathway for prayers and offerings. They used various aromatic substances, such as frankincense and myrrh, in both temple rituals and burial practices. These resins were often imported from distant lands and were highly valued, reserved for the wealthiest and most sacred uses, such as offerings to the gods or embalming the deceased for the afterlife.
India and the Hindu Tradition
Incense has long been a part of Hindu ceremonies, dating back to the Vedic period around 1500 BCE. In Hinduism, incense is believed to ward off evil spirits, clear negative energies, and elevate prayers to the gods. Specific scents are associated with particular deities; for instance, sandalwood is offered to the goddess Lakshmi for prosperity, and jasmine is associated with love and devotion. Incense is burned daily in temples and homes, and it continues to play an essential role in Hindu rituals, from weddings to devotional practices.
China and Taoist Practices
The Chinese also used incense as early as the Xia dynasty (c. 2070–1600 BCE). Incense burning became a way of showing respect to ancestors and communicating with the spirit world in Taoist and Confucian ceremonies. Buddhist influences later solidified the importance of incense, where burning sticks symbolized the purifying of one's mind and environment. The art of incense crafting and burning remains central in traditional Chinese medicine and spiritual practices today, valued for promoting health, balance, and meditation.
Buddhism and Japanese Culture
Incense plays a prominent role in Buddhism, particularly in Japan, where it became popular through Buddhist monks. In Zen Buddhism, incense burning represents mindfulness, transience, and the focus required for meditation. Different incense types have various ritual purposes, such as deepening concentration during Zen practices. Japanese culture reveres incense as an art form, using it in Kōdō (the Way of Incense) ceremonies, which involve appreciating and reflecting on incense in a meditative group setting.
The Middle East and the Abrahamic Religions
Incense was integral to religious rites in ancient Mesopotamia and later became a part of Jewish rituals. It is frequently mentioned in the Bible, where frankincense and myrrh are valued for their divine associations. The burning of frankincense is noted in the Book of Exodus, where it is used in the sacred altar of the Tabernacle. In Christianity, incense is used in Catholic and Orthodox ceremonies, symbolizing purification and the ascent of prayers to heaven. Many churches today still use incense during services and celebrations, blending ancient traditions with modern worship practices.
Mesoamerican and Indigenous Practices
Indigenous groups in Mesoamerica, such as the Aztecs and Maya, used incense (often in the form of copal resin) in their religious rituals to communicate with deities and ancestors. This practice is still observed by many indigenous groups in Central and South America, where burning copal or sage is a way to purify spaces, bless gatherings, and honor the natural world. The rituals have been passed down through generations and continue to hold a special place in indigenous spirituality.

Copal is an incense traditionally used for cleansing, expressing gratitude, and making offerings.
Modern Uses of Incense in Spirituality
Today, incense remains a versatile tool in various spiritual, cultural, and religious practices around the world. In modern times, incense is widely accessible and used by individuals and groups alike for diverse purposes:
- Meditation and Mindfulness
Many people incorporate incense into meditation and mindfulness practices, using scents like sandalwood and frankincense to create a calming environment. These scents help foster focus and reduce stress, making it easier to maintain a meditative state. - Yoga and Wellness Practices
In yoga studios and wellness centers, incense is burned to create a peaceful, inviting space. Scents such as lavender and jasmine can promote relaxation and help participants feel grounded, enhancing the yoga experience. - Wiccan and Pagan Rituals
For practitioners of Wicca, Paganism, and other nature-based religions, incense is an essential part of rituals and spells. Specific incense scents, like myrrh and patchouli, are used to set intentions, honor deities, and purify the ritual space. These practices blend ancient wisdom with modern interpretations, creating a powerful spiritual tool. - Aromatherapy and Emotional Well-Being
Many use incense in aromatherapy, selecting specific scents to support emotional well-being. For instance, peppermint can stimulate focus, while rose incense is believed to uplift the spirit and promote self-love. - Cultural Celebrations and Festivities
Incense is often burned during cultural festivals and celebrations to bring blessings, happiness, and prosperity. Whether it’s Chinese New Year, Diwali, or All Saints’ Day, incense is a common element that bridges cultural heritage with contemporary life.
Types of Incense and How to Use Them
The type of incense used can vary based on personal preference and the purpose of burning. Here’s a closer look at each type and some practical tips:
Resins and Gums
One of the oldest forms, resin incense (like frankincense and myrrh) is best suited for ceremonial and cleansing purposes. To burn resin incense, light a charcoal tablet and place it on a heat-resistant surface, such as an incense burner or a sand-filled dish. Use tongs to place the resin on top of the hot charcoal, allowing it to release its fragrant smoke. When finished, extinguish the charcoal by placing it in water.
Powdered Incense
Powdered incense consists of finely ground herbs and oils. Self-lighting powders can be molded into small cone shapes, while powders requiring a continuous heat source can be sprinkled on charcoal, releasing a steady fragrance.
Incense Cones
Incense cones are convenient and burn cleanly, producing a strong aroma. Light the tip of the cone, blow out the flame, and place it in a suitable holder. Cones are ideal for short, powerful bursts of fragrance.
Incense Sticks
Incense sticks are perhaps the most user-friendly. Light the tip of the stick, extinguish the flame, and place it in a holder. Incense sticks provide a steady, slow release of scent that can last for 30 minutes to an hour.
Safety Tip: Always use heat-resistant tools, and never leave incense unattended while burning.

Incense sticks have been used for centuries in rituals and ceremonies to purify spaces, honor deities, and enhance spiritual focus.
Popular Incense Scents and Their Uses
The effects of incense depend largely on the type of scent used. Here are some common incense scents and their benefits:
7 African Powers. Burn our 7 African Powers Incense Sticks to invoke the almighty powers of the African Orishas. May they bring you love, money, luck, and peace of mind.
Bayberry. Possessing a rich, floral smell, our Bayberry Incense Sticks are great for filling a room with their delightful aroma. In ritual, they make a great aid in spells of protection and warding. They are also known for being perfect in use for spells that are intended to assert control over another, either to help them or for your own personal gain.
Caridad Del Cobre. Burn this Caridad Del Cobre incense to petition the virgin of miraculous help. This spiritual incense can be used in dire times when all else has failed.
Cherry. Apart from being pleasing to the taste buds, these small fruits offer a number of benefits to the mind and body. The scent of black cherries is soothing and is known to help with relaxation, the fruit contains antioxidants that help to reduce inflammation in the body, and the extract from black cherry bark is often used to suppress a cough. Burn a Cherry Incense Stick to have the smell of cherries engulf your home or place of business.
Cinnamon. Cinnamon Incense is associated with sexual desire, lust, and passion, making it an excellent choice for use for use in desire and aphrodisiac spells. It is also excellent at raising sexual energy. Burn cinnamon incense when doing your most powerful rituals to help you receive the energy you will need for a successful spell.
Citronella. Spend peaceful time outdoors the natural way with Citronella Incense Sticks. This incense creates a wonderfully pleasant aroma and also helps to keep insects away.
Coconut. Coconut Incense is luscious, with a scent that is reminiscent of a tropical island vacation. Known to have a calming and relaxing effect on the body, recent studies suggest that the smell of coconut may even help reduce stress while performing complex tasks.
Coffee. Coffee Incense is widely used in divination spells. This fragrant incense also helps to dispel nightmares and cleanse your home or workspace.
Divino Nino. Burn Divino Nino Incense to bless your children and to bless yourself as a way to keep your mind clear of negativity, and bring faith into your life.
Fast Luck. Burn Fast Luck Incense when a streak of luck is needed in a hurry. Attract good luck in gambling, business, or any new adventure. Bring luck in a hurry in matters of money, love, and business. Perfect for anyone who needs instant luck.
Frankincense & Myrrh. This classic, unmistakable aroma of Frankincense & Myrrh incense will invoke infinite power and memories. The spicy, balsamic, citrus, and peppery fragrance is as old as the word incense.

Frankincense and myrrh, prized since ancient times, have been used in religious ceremonies for purification, healing, and spiritual connection.
Frankincense. This scent promotes peace and tranquility. It is used to relieve stress and anxiety. It is also a useful tool to help resolve arguments, reestablish broken friendships, and bring resolution to enemies. Burn frankincense incense at a quiet time to receive protection to your life, from evil people and evil spirits.
Fruit of Life. Burn Fruit of Life Incense to invoke the forces of the universe for fortune, wealth, loyalty, health, and abundance.
Go Away Evil. Go Away Evil incense will assist you in your attempts to remove all evil spirits that could be disturbing your mental and physical well-being. It will surround you with positive energy that will start changing your life. Use in rituals against enemies to neutralize the negative thought forms created by the envious and the ill-wishing of others. Reverse the effects of the evil eye, reverse psychic attacks and harmful witchcraft that is sent against you.
Guardian Angel. Burning a Guardian Angel Incense Stick will help you to be protected from any harm or evil. Never be alone when your guardian angel is near, call upon your guardian angel when you burn an incense stick. Do not despair, or feel alone because your guardian angel is not only your protector and guide, but a best friend to confide in and tell your troubles to.
High John the Conqueror. Burn High John the Conqueror incense to master and conquer all problems and situations. Absorb the powers of High John and get what you desire today. This incense is good for all situations. If something or someone is bringing you down and blocking you then overpower them with the power of High John the Conqueror.
Indian Tobacco. Invoke the aid of your Indian guide by burning Indian Tobacco incense. Light a stick to calm your mind and guide your inner self to connect with your spirit guide or to enhance the mood of the moment.
Jasmine. Jasmine Incense has a rich, sensual sweetness that awakens the senses. Jasmine is a vital herbal remedy and has been used for thousands of years. It helps calm anxiety, relax tense muscles, and relieve headaches. Jasmine is believed to contain antidepressant, aphrodisiac, and antiseptic properties.
Jinx Removing. Jinx Removing incense gets rid of all bad luck, hexes, and jinxes. Use it to destroy all jinxes that have been put on you by your enemies. Do not let a jinx bring you down - beat it with this powerful Jinx Removing Incense.
Lavender. Lavender Incense has a scent that is relaxing and soothing, which has made it a popular fragrance that has been in use for over 3,000 years. It works well for love spells, spells meant to attract a mate, and it is a good incense to burn during romantic situations.
Love. Invite the aroma of romance into your personal space by burning a Love Incense Stick. This pungent scent will draw your lover closer to you, make sure they are faithful, and give you strong true love.
Martha Dominadora. Martha Dominadora Incense is excellent to use to dominate or control one's boss, especially if they are not treating their employees well. These incense sticks can be used for break-up spells, especially if an unholy union is involved. They can also be used for money problems, but she won't make one rich. She will only provide what one needs to get buy.
Money Drawing. This incense draws money to you quickly. Burn Money Drawing Incense Sticks to help pay off debts and send money your way, improve your finances, bring customers to your business, increase your luck at job interviews, and improve your luck at games of chance.
Most Powerful Hand. Assistance in all matters is believed to be an attribute of Most Powerful Hand Incense. It is especially favored by those involved in legal cases. Burn on the evening before every court appearance. On the night before a ruling in a case is to be made, also burn a white candle.
Mr. Money Burn. Burn this incense to attract money into your life. Mr. Money Incense Sticks bring money to you from any source whether it is family, job bonus, friends, inheritance, the government, bingo and lottery games or even finding money.
Musk. Musk incense is used to restore order and balance, create protective barriers, remove negative influences, and realign one's energies. Musk is associated with death, the underworld, and the afterlife.
Myrrh. Myrrh is often seen as an incense of purification and exorcism. Burn at a quiet time to protect yourself from evil spirits.
Nag Champa. Nag Champa Incense has a complex scent sporting woods and aromatics, blending the earthy with the stimulating. This classic fragrance is beloved for more than just its distinctive scent; it is known to help people focus, provide a boost to the immune system, relax nerves, and lessen the negative effects of stress on the mind and body.

Nag Champa incense, cherished in Indian tradition, creates a calm, sacred space for meditation and spiritual practices.
Patchouli. Patchouli incense has been known to help relieve the symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, fatigue, and muscle soreness. It also energizes and uplifts the spirits. It also contributes to peace of mind and is a great aphrodisiac. Burning one of these incense sticks will calm your soul and spiritual life.
Prosperity. This earthy incense is an everyday staple incense for your home or business. Use Prosperity Incense to increase personal prosperity, attract business, and build your wealth.
Rose. The floral, sweet scent of Rose oil lifts depression, reduces tension, calms your emotions, eases anxiety, and elevates your spirits. The soothing smell calms the nerves yet is a sensual and stimulating aphrodisiac. Burning a Rose Incense Stick will bring you good health, success, love, and money blessings.
Revocation. Burn Revocation Incense to send back what has been wished upon you. This magical aroma will reverse hexes and crossed conditions.
Run Devil Run. Burn this at a quiet time to destroy all evil and kill all jinx or bad luck. Turn your life around and be free from any jinx or curse that has been put on you by another by lighting a Run Devil Run Incense Stick. Make Satan and his evil followers run and be gone!
Sacred Heart of Jesus. Receive God’s holy blessings by burning a Sacred Heart of Jesus Incense Stick. When in need of the sacred heart of Jesus or the energy associated with him, just light the incense and pray the Prayer to the Sacred Heart.
Saint Anthony. Anthony is said to help in the return of lost things and missing people. Burn a Saint Anthony Incense Stick to petition the patron saint of lost things and missing persons to help you find what you are looking for.
Saint Barbara. She is the patroness of lightning storms, architects, and builders. Burn Saint Barbara Incense to keep away wicked people and for protection from harm.
Saint Clara. Many people turn to this saint when someone they care about is blinded by anger or high emotion, and that person cannot see clearly. Burn a Saint Clara Incense Stick for clearance and protection.
Saint Expedito. The patron saint of those who hope for rapid solutions to problems, Saint Expedito is known to help maintain a steady business and increase your luck. Burn a Saint Expedito Incense Stick to increase your sense of hope and faith.
Saint Jude. Saint Jude is the patron saint of impossible cases and creates miracles for those he helps. He cures the incurable, grants the impossible, and favors the needy. All he asks in return is that you make public notice of his having answered your prayers. The tireless champion of the needs of others, he is equated with the Orisha Ogun. When all other avenues are closed, light a Saint Jude Incense Stick and call upon his help.
Saint Lazarus. Saint Lazarus promotes complete healing of body, mind, emotions, and spirit. Light a Saint Lazarus Incense Stick and pray to this saint to request healing for a specific illness for yourself or others.
Saint Michael. Burn for protection against evil, harm, and enemies. He will fight the devil for you. Saint Michael gives you strength, and courage and the power to defeat your worst demons and enemies. He will never stop protecting you. All devils, demons, evil, bad people and more will be rid of when burning Saint Michael Incense.
Saint Santiago. Burn a Saint Santiago Incense Stick to petition him to watch over and protect you and your family.
Sandalwood. Sandalwood Incense is earthy, fresh, and smooth. The scent is often used to induce a calm and meditative state and has an age-old reputation as an aphrodisiac. Research has shown that exposure to sandalwood stimulates healing properties. The scent is also known to help relieve muscle soreness and indigestion and to help reduce depression.
Strawberry Incense has a tangy, fresh scent that invokes the aroma of freshly picked fruit. It is believed to bring happiness and joy to all who burn it.
Success. Burn Success Incense to find success in all things, including work, school, love, family, friends, and more. This incense will help you to triumph in aspects of love, career, and any unfulfilled desires.
Vanilla. Vanilla Incense is a good general incense to burn to represent the element of air. Specifically, vanilla is associated with thought and intelligence. Burn a Vanilla Incense stick to attract love, increase sexual desire, and improve the powers of the mind.
Uncrossing. Uncrossing incense will help you to remove any hex, curse, or spell that has been placed upon you. It uncrosses all negative energy that opposes you, leaving the energy neutral and clean.
Whether you burn incense for relaxation, cleansing, or purification, the magical properties will help you in all of your rituals, spells, and goals.
Final Thoughts on Burning Incense
Incense has a timeless appeal, offering a simple yet profound way to influence mood, energy, and ambiance. Whether you seek relaxation, spiritual connection, or simply a pleasant scent, incense can provide a meaningful addition to your daily rituals. With a broad history and versatile applications, incense is more than just an aromatic tool—it’s a bridge connecting us to centuries-old practices of intention, mindfulness, and transformation.
Always take care when burning incense, and remember to ensure proper ventilation. Never leave burning incense unattended.