Throughout history, incense has been used to soothe the soul, heal the body, please the senses, summon the spirits, and appease the gods. Although the exact origin of incense is unknown, it appears to have been one of the earliest spiritual practices. Ancient texts, dating back to 1800 BC, describe the burning of incense for spiritual purposes.
Although the metaphysical properties of incense have yet to be scientifically proven, practitioners have been satisfied with the results since the beginning of (at least recorded) history. Furthermore, scientific discoveries related to aromatherapy and the chemical composition of essential oils have some striking parallels with metaphysical properties. For example, lavender is used in rituals or spells for spiritual purification, protection, and serenity. The chemicals in lavender oil have been shown to be effective disinfectants and pest (insect) repellants. In aromatherapy, lavender is the most popular fragrance for calming and focusing the mind.
Exactly how the metaphysical properties of incense work is a matter of great debate. It largely depends on your personal beliefs and how the incense is used. The simplest belief is that incense simply sets the mood. The fragrance has been shown to have profound effects on memory and emotional state. Many skeptics think that it is an accessory. Many mind power based practitioners believe that it simply helps one access their natural power by opening up internal energy flows and helping to achieve the desired level of consciousness.
The vast majority of practitioners believe in the real magical powers of incense. Those made from natural materials carry the Earth energy of the plant from which they originated. Also, the herbs, fragrances and formulas have their own powers, their own special mystical way of bringing about transformations.
Many religions, practices, and cultural traditions use the metaphysical properties of incense. It is an offering to spirits and deities, as well as adding its own power to ceremonies and spells. It is often used in conjunction with a variety of magical tools and offerings, in rituals. However, many use incense only to aid in meditation or divination, to empower wishes, or simply to do their own magic.
-Metaphysical properties of common incense fragrances-
INCENSE FOR PURIFICATION
Cedar, copal, eucalyptus, jasmine, lavender, lemon, sage, sandalwood, sweet grass
INCENSE OF PROTECTION
Bayberry, Carnation, Cedarwood, Cinnamon, Copal, Dragon’s Blood, Frankincense, Sage, Sandalwood,
INCENSE FOR CLAIRVOYANCE AND DIVINATION
basil, bay leaf, clove, damiana, frankincense, jasmine, orange, rose
INCENSE FOR LUCK
Allspice, Basil, Frankincense, Orange, Strawberry, Violet
INCENSE FOR LOVE
amber, copal, dragon’s blood, jasmine, lemon, musk, rose
INCENSE FOR LUST
carnation, cinnamon, ginger, hibiscus, vanilla
INCENSE FOR HEALTH
amber, carnation, cinnamon, gardenia, lavender, myrrh
INCENSE FOR STRENGTH
carnation, cinnamon, cypress, pine
INCENSE FOR MENTAL CLARITY
basil, cardamom, cedar, lavender, lemongrass, sage
INCENSE FOR COURAGE
basil, cardamom, incense, musk, rose
INCENSE FOR POWER
Acacia, bay leaf, cedar, cinnamon, dragon’s blood, nutmeg, vanilla
INCENSE FOR HAPPINESS
amber, myrtle, honeysuckle, hyacinth, lavender
INCENSE FOR HARMONY AND SERENITY
angelica, chamomile, gardenia, lotus, lilac, ylang-ylang
INCENSE FOR WEALTH
Allspice, Bayberry, Clove, Honeysuckle, Jasmine, Mint, Musk, Patchouli
The fragrances mentioned above are all pure, one scent. There is also a wide variety of blended incenses available. Some may have more powerful metaphysical properties than individual fragrances, while others have little or no properties. Avoid scent-only ones, like Chanel Clone No. 5 or Fresh Linen scent. They are just an air freshener.
Of the many blends intended for religious, meditation, and new age use, it can be hard to tell which ones are genuine. This is simply a matter of smart shopping (reading reviews, buying from a reputable website) and experimenting to see what works for you.
Some incense blends are designed for purposes like the ones mentioned above. Many are specialized, such as fragrances to appeal to specific deities, enhance the energy of an element, or balance the energies of a certain zodiac sign.
Incense is specifically required for many new age religious and cultural practices. Additionally, a simple spell can be performed with focused concentration on a specific intention while lighting the appropriate incense.
A space can be purified in preparation for the ceremony, or simply to improve the atmosphere, by lighting purifying incense and waving it around the room to distribute the smoke. Similarly, a person can be purified by erasing, that is, sprinkling handfuls of smoke (usually sage) over the body.
When meditating, practicing divination, or cultivating psychic dreams, burn the appropriate incense for your goal to increase your chances of success.
If you wish to increase something, such as wealth or love, regularly burn the appropriate incense in your life and focus on the appropriate intentions.
Remember, your best guide in any spiritual or metaphysical matter is your intuition and intention.