6 Types Of Soothing Incense

Well known for its potentially beneficial influence on well-being, incense is steeped in a rich history. Still, that doesn't mean it has no place in the modern world. In this article, we delve into the soothing qualities of incense and showcase six types that are sure to help you unwind when you need it most. Not to mention, they smell amazing! So, if you've been looking for a soothing incense, you're in the right place.

How does incense work?

It might seem obvious, but have you ever wondered how incense works? For the most part,  incense is made from plant-based aromatic materials such as sandalwood and cinnamon. These materials are then shaped into various forms like cones and coils; however, arguably, the most common type of incense is sticks. Regardless of the form, the material is set alight, releasing aromatic scents that can have a whole host of possible effects and benefits to users.

How incense soothes

There's no denying the appeal and popularity of aromatherapy, and the use of incense falls firmly within this practice. In fact, many use incense as a means of unwinding. By lighting an incense stick and curling up on the sofa or placing some incense next to you when taking a bath, you can effortlessly experience the soothing qualities of this fragrant product. Arguably, part of the ritual of burning incense is creating a calming environment from the get-go, so you're halfway there just by dimming the lights and creating a pleasant ambience. 

That's not to say that incense doesn't play an integral part, though, as when we inhale the aromas, our olfactory receptors send signals to the body's limbic system. The limbic system is not only responsible for our emotions, but our memory too. The smell of incense may boost these areas and allow for soothing sensations that, while not psychoactive, are more than enough to help you unwind.

Six soothing incense types

Which varieties of incense have the potential to provide these soothing sensations? Well, we've picked out six that are sure to do the trick. So, next time you need some deep relaxation, consider breaking out one of the fragrant friends listed below.

Sandalwood

Instantly recognisable by its fresh and woody scent, sandalwood makes for the ideal aromatic incense experience. Sandalwood has been used for thousands of years and is tied to Hinduism, Buddhism, and traditional Chinese medicine. Even to this day, sandalwood is highly favoured in meditation, prayer and even yoga due to its soothing, calming and focus-inducing properties. Sandalwood incense can be found in a wide range of varieties, so whether you prefer cones, coils or sticks, allow sandalwood's scent to wash over you when you need it most.

Jasmine

Originating from China, jasmine offers a unique, sweet, floral aroma that has been harnessed in many other products besides incense, such as perfume and candles. Known for delivering deep feelings of relaxation, Jasmine incense is an accessible scent that remains hugely popular today. In fact, many believe it also brings happiness, positivity and even excellent fortune for those who include it in their lives. While these claims may be slightly superfluous, there's no denying jasmine's calming aroma.

Incense Holder (Green Tree)

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Pine

Commonly found in North Africa, Southeast Asia, and North and Central America, the dried leaves of the pine tree are utilised to create aromatic incense. Pine's scent is often described as having notes of sweetness, balsamic and woodiness. These scents combine to create the perfect atmosphere for relaxation and are suitable for use year-round. However, pine incense cones are massively popular around the festive period and bring a calming Christmas vibe to the home by filling the air with fresh pine aromas.

Lemongrass

With uses dating back thousands of years, lemongrass is next in our lineup of aromatic incense. Lemongrass carries a fresh, sweet, citrus scent that soothes and leaves the room smelling clean, pleasant, and fragrant. Many look to combine lemongrass incense with the aforementioned sandalwood as the two work together harmoniously to deliver deep feelings of relaxation. Also, as a handy hint, if you find yourself bothered by mosquitoes in the summertime, you can use lemongrass incense as a natural repellent. Now, you can concentrate on relaxing without those pesky insects buzzing around!

Lavender

From hand soaps to candles and even face creams, lavender is everywhere! This purple-hued flower has long been used for a bevvy of reasons, so it should come as no surprise that it's also a massively popular choice amongst incense aficionados. The earliest uses of lavender date back well over 2000 years to ancient Egyptian rituals, where they burnt lavender incense during long periods of meditation. Boasting a sweet, floral and herbal scent, lighting a stick of lavender incense is a great way to take a trip to tranquillity. In some spiritual circles, it's even thought that lavender could bring good luck into your life—what's not to like?

Chamomile

Not just found in your tea, chamomile is also an excellent choice for incense. This herb has been used for centuries and is synonymous with soothing effects. With a sweet, fresh and herbal aroma, chamomile smells incredible but is also perfect for pairing with other incense on our list to bolster your mellow mood. Many people use chamomile incense before bedtime to potentially improve their sleep quality, much like they would with a cup of chamomile tea. However, even if this incense variety doesn't guarantee a great night's sleep, it still offers a relaxing atmosphere beforehand.

Thick Herbal Incense Sticks

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Seek soothing incense today

Those are our top soothing incense picks. Of course, personal preference differs from person to person, so it's essential to find a variety of incense that works best for you. Still, with several aromas to choose from, our list is an excellent starting point. If you want to get your hands on some soothing incense, head over to the Zamnesia Store, where you'll find the finest incense products and accessories to kickstart your journey to peacefulness and relaxation.

Adam Parsons

Professional cannabis journalist, copywriter, and author Adam Parsons is a long-time staff member of Zamnesia. Tasked with covering a wide range of topics from CBD to psychedelics and everything in between, Adam creates blog posts, guides, and explores an ever-growing range of products.

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