Nine Best Reasons to Burn Incense

Whether you’re seeking relaxation, inspiration, or just a better-smelling room, incense offers an array of benefits that can elevate your everyday experience. For centuries, incense has been used in homes, temples, and sacred spaces to enhance mood, encourage mindfulness, and create a soothing environment. In the following article, our online smoke shop team explores the history of incense in cultures throughout the world and recommended ways to incorporate incense into your daily life.

What is Incense?

The word “incense” is derived from the Latin word “incendere,” meaning “to burn.” And for several millenniums of human history, we’ve done just that. “Incense” refers to a specific bound material which is burned to produce a number of rich fragrances, and not the fragrance itself. While our modern definition is rather narrow, many experts believe that other flavorful items like cedars, berries and roots have been burned throughout human history to produce the same effects.

Global History of Incense

Like anything that’s withstood the test of time, the use of incense has evolved and improved over many millenniums of use. Below we’ll explore the most fascinating aspects of incense’s history and its uses across the globe.

Vietnam

In Vietnam, incense use dates back thousands of years, with strong links to ancestor worship and Taoist-Buddhist practices. Archaeological evidence from the Phùng Nguyên culture (circa 2,000 BCE) shows early use of aromatic resins during ceremonial and funerary rites. Incense is deeply woven into Vietnamese spirituality, used to honor ancestors, deities, and local spirits, especially during Tết (Lunar New Year) and full moon festivals. Villages such as Quảng Phú Cầu are renowned for traditional incense-making practices that continue to this day. These customs highlight the enduring role incense plays in connecting Vietnamese people to their heritage and the spiritual world.

Greece

In 8th century BCE Greece, people began burning resins and woods inspired by Orphic tradition. Much like the Egyptians, early Greeks believed incense had the power to ward off evil spirits. It also played a romantic role, as both Greek and Egyptian myths celebrated its aphrodisiac qualities. Incense was associated with mythical goddesses and nymphs to elevate desire and allure. While its effect on love might be debatable today, the Greeks clearly saw it as more than just a pleasant aroma.

China

The use of incense in China dates back to as early as 2,000 BCE, marking one of the oldest recorded uses in human history. It became an essential part of formalized ceremonies and religious rituals, spreading widely across the Xia, Zhou, and Shang dynasties. By the Song dynasty, incense culture had grown so significant that buildings were constructed solely for incense ceremonies. It was commonly used to honor ancestors, appease household gods, and enhance festivals and processions.

Egypt

Ancient Egyptians imported fragrant trees from Arabia and Somalia to fuel their incense traditions. They crafted early combustible forms that predated modern wicks, burning them not just for rituals but also to mask unpleasant odors. Incense held deep spiritual significance, used to honor gods like Amon-Re and believed to chase away demons. It was also a vital part of funeral ceremonies, thought to help spirits ascend to the afterlife. Archaeological finds, such as resin balls in tombs and temple carvings, reveal just how embedded incense was in their culture.

India

India is considered one of the birthplaces of incense, with usage dating back as early as 3,600 BCE in the Indus Valley Civilization. Incense was integral to Vedic rituals and is referenced in sacred Hindu texts like the Atharva Veda. Early forms were created using guggul, frankincense, and sandalwood, and used in pujas (prayers), meditation, and Ayurvedic healing. Incense remains a vital element in Indian religious life, present in homes, temples, and yoga practices across the country. India also pioneered the rolled stick method of incense production, now popular around the world.

Japan

Japan’s relationship with incense began in 595, when aromatic wood washed ashore near Awaji Island and was burned by curious locals. Its scent amazed them, prompting its presentation to the Imperial Court, who identified it as Aloeswood or Jinkoh. Initially used only by the nobility, incense later gained popularity among all social classes during the Muromachi period. The Buddhist monk Ganjin helped bring incense and its ceremonial practices to Japan, including its use in purification rituals. Some samurai even placed incense in their helmets, a final courtesy meant for their potential killer in battle.

Reasons to Burn Incense

In today’s world, lighting incense is an easy, affordable way to embrace stillness, self-expression, and spiritual connection. Here’s how incense can enrich your daily rituals and help you feel more grounded, creative, and at peace.

“Light the incense! You have to burn to be fragrant.”

–Rumi

Freshen the Air in Your Home

One of the simplest reasons to light incense is also one of the most satisfying—its scent. Incense can quickly freshen up your space, replacing stale or unpleasant odors with something far more inviting. Scents like cinnamon or sandalwood can mask lingering smells from cooking or smoke, while lighter fragrances offer a soft background aroma. Whether you’re unwinding or entertaining, the right incense sets the tone. Not sure where to start? Try a few different scents from your local smoke shop and discover what makes your space feel just right.

Develop Spirituality

For thousands of years, incense has played a role in spiritual practices. Whether used to honor ancestors, connect with divine energies, or simply clear the mind, incense offers a timeless method of spiritual exploration. It can help you create sacred space and set an intention for deeper insight or peace.

Relax With a Ritual

At the end of a long day, rituals can bring much-needed comfort. Whether it’s a hot bath, a warm drink, or your favorite playlist, adding incense into the mix helps signal that it’s time to unwind. The gentle smoke and calming scent create an atmosphere of serenity. And since incense is incredibly budget-friendly, this little luxury is always within reach.

Set the Mood

Incense isn’t just for relaxing—it can also be used to enhance romance and sensuality. Some aromas are thought to increase physical attraction and intimacy. Lighting a seductive scent like patchouli or amber before a date night at home can help set a warm, inviting tone for deeper connection.

Expand Your Identity

Discovering your favorite incense is like finding your signature scent or preferred strain—it’s another layer of self-expression. Your preferences reflect your personality, mood, and desires. Choosing a scent that resonates with you can feel like a quiet but meaningful step in defining who you are and how you want your space to feel.

Evoke Your Favorite Memories

Smell is one of our most powerful senses, capable of triggering vivid memories and emotions. A familiar scent can transport you back to childhood, special places, or people you love. Using incense to recreate these moments is a beautiful way to honor your memories. Let your favorite smells bring joy and nostalgia into your daily life.

Meditate or Practice Yoga

Yoga and meditation benefit from a calm, distraction-free environment. Incense helps eliminate lingering odors and introduces a soothing scent that enhances focus. Certain fragrances are even thought to boost clarity and concentration, making incense a great tool for deepening your mind-body connection during practice.

Increase Emotional Release

Creative expression and emotional release go hand in hand, and incense can serve as a subtle but supportive companion to both. Some users find that certain aromas, like citrus or eucalyptus, help them tap into a more inspired, energized state. Whether you’re journaling, painting, or simply reflecting, the right scent can help unlock deeper feelings and imagination.

From freshening the air to deepening your inner world, incense is a small but meaningful way to transform everyday moments. Explore your favorite scents, and let each one bring a little more peace, creativity, and joy into your life.

710 Pipes has plenty of quality incense available for purchase in our online smoke shop & two local stores, along with accessories like incense holders and lighters. Stop by our Denver or Northglenn locations seven days a week to browse our selection, or visit our online smoke shop to place an order!