Frankincense is a resin harvested from trees of the Boswellia genus. People have burned it for thousands of years in different cultures and spiritual traditions.
One way to burn frankincense is to use a charcoal burner. This method has been around for centuries and is still a popular way to enjoy the aroma and benefits of frankincense.
This article provides a comprehensive guide to using a frankincense charcoal burner safely and effectively.
Frankincense: A bit of history
Ancient Uses of Frankincense
Frankincense has been used for many things throughout history, including treating headaches and improving meditation.
- It’s been used in spiritual practices for purification and meditation.
- It’s been used in religious ceremonies and as a valuable trade item.
Frankincense is closely linked to spirituality and purification, especially in ancient Egyptian and Middle Eastern cultures.
Modern Applications
People continue to use frankincense today for its pleasant smell and therapeutic properties, much like they would use Aromatherapy Associates soap.
- It’s used in aromatherapy, meditation, and other wellness practices.
There’s also growing interest in the possible health benefits of frankincense. Some research even suggests it can purify the air.
What is frankincense resin, anyway?
Frankincense is a resin, kind of like sap, that’s harvested from trees in the Boswellia family. You can find different varieties of frankincense depending on the tree from which it was harvested and where it was grown, for example, frankincense from Oman or Somalia.
It’s important to buy pure, high-quality frankincense to get the best experience. The quality of frankincense can depend on where it’s from and its grade.
When you’re not using your frankincense, be sure to store it in an airtight container away from humidity and bright light.
What you need to burn frankincense with charcoal
To burn frankincense with charcoal, you’ll need a few things:
Types of charcoal burners
- Ceramic burners are a popular choice because they can withstand high temperatures, and you can find them in many different styles.
- Metal burners are durable and conduct heat well, but they can get very hot to the touch.
- Soapstone burners offer a unique look and retain heat, but they may not be as heat-resistant as other options.
Charcoal Discs
You can use quick-lighting charcoal or natural charcoal. Quick-lighting charcoal is easier to light, but it may contain chemical additives and may not burn as long. Natural charcoal takes longer to light but burns cleaner. Charcoal discs usually last for 45-60 minutes.
Additional tools
- Tongs for handling hot charcoal.
- A heat-resistant mat to protect surfaces.
- Sand or ash to regulate heat.
A step-by-step guide to burning frankincense with charcoal
Burning frankincense with charcoal is a simple and rewarding process. Here’s how to do it safely and effectively:
Preparation
- Add sand or ash to your burner. Pour a layer of sand or ash into the base of your burner. This will help distribute the heat evenly and protect the burner from scorching.
- Place the charcoal disc. Set the charcoal disc on top of the sand or ash bed. Make sure it’s stable and centered.
Lighting the Charcoal
- Hold the charcoal with tongs. This is really important! Use tongs to hold the charcoal disc securely. Don’t try to light it in your hand.
- Light the charcoal. Light the charcoal disc in a space that has plenty of fresh air. I’d suggest going outside for this part. Wait for the charcoal to fully ignite. You’ll know it’s ready when it turns gray around the edges. This can take a few minutes.
- Be careful! Always be cautious when handling lit charcoal. It gets very hot.
Adding the Frankincense Resin
- Start small. Begin with a small piece of frankincense resin. Using too much resin at once can create a lot of smoke, which isn’t ideal.
- Place the resin. Put the frankincense resin directly on top of the hot charcoal disc.
- Let it melt. Let the resin melt slowly. As it melts, it will release its beautiful fragrance.
Maintaining the Burn
- Add resin as needed. Add more resin to the charcoal as the fragrance fades.
- Monitor the charcoal. Keep an eye on the charcoal. When it burns out, carefully replace it with a new, lit disc.
- Ventilate the room. Make sure the room is well-ventilated while you’re burning frankincense.
Safety Precautions and Troubleshooting
Burning frankincense can be a great experience, but remember to do it safely.
Fire Safety
- Never leave a charcoal burner unattended.
- Keep anything that could catch fire away from the burner.
- Keep a fire extinguisher or a container of water nearby just in case.
Ventilation
- Always burn frankincense in a room where air flows freely. Good airflow will prevent smoke from building up, which can irritate your lungs and throat.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Too much smoke: Try using less resin or improving the airflow in the room.
- Charcoal won’t light: Make sure the charcoal is completely dry and that you’re using a good-quality charcoal.
- Resin isn’t melting: Be sure the charcoal is fully lit and hot enough.
Benefits and Uses of Burning Frankincense
Burning frankincense can be a simple way to add pleasant aromas to your home, similar to using incense cones. But there are other reasons people choose to burn frankincense.
Relaxation and Stress Relief
Burning frankincense is said to help you relax, find peace, create harmony, and meditate. Many people find the aroma promotes a sense of calmness and improves their mood, and some people find it helps them fall asleep more easily.
Air Purification
Frankincense fumes may purify the air, reducing the number of microbes and bacteria floating around. Research has shown that frankincense fumes can reduce airborne microbes and bacteria by as much as 90 percent.
Spiritual and Ritualistic Purposes
For centuries, people have burned frankincense during spiritual practices for purification and meditation. It’s often used in religious ceremonies and during meditation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does burning frankincense resin clean the air?
While some proponents claim burning frankincense cleans the air, scientific evidence supporting this is limited. Some studies suggest frankincense smoke may possess antimicrobial properties, potentially reducing certain airborne bacteria. However, burning any substance releases particulate matter, which can negatively impact air quality. It’s crucial to balance potential benefits with the risks of indoor air pollution and ensure adequate ventilation.
What is burning frankincense good for?
Burning frankincense is often associated with various potential benefits, primarily rooted in traditional and spiritual practices. Many use it to promote relaxation, reduce stress and anxiety, enhance focus and meditation, and create a calming atmosphere. Some also believe in its ability to purify spaces and connect with spiritual realms. While anecdotal evidence is abundant, more scientific research is needed to fully validate these claims.
Can I burn frankincense directly on the burner?
No, you should not burn frankincense resin directly on the burner. Frankincense requires indirect heat to release its aroma properly and safely. Burning it directly will likely result in scorching, producing an unpleasant smell and potentially damaging your burner. Always use charcoal tablets specifically designed for burning resin. Place the charcoal on the burner, let it heat up, and then sprinkle small pieces of frankincense on top of the hot charcoal. The heat from the charcoal will gently melt the resin, releasing its fragrant smoke.
Putting it all together
Using a frankincense charcoal burner can be a great way to relax, purify the air in your home, and connect with spiritual practices. Remember, using charcoal and fire always requires caution.
Keep your burner away from anything flammable, never leave it unattended, and make sure the room is well-ventilated.
Burning frankincense is a tradition that spans centuries and cultures. By using a charcoal burner responsibly and mindfully, you can tap into the rich history and soothing benefits of this ancient practice.