Throughout history, incense has been used to calm the soul, heal the body, indulge the senses, summon spirits, and appease the gods. Although the exact origin of incense is unknown, it appears to have been one of the earliest spiritual practices. The ancient texts, dating from 1800 BC. C., describe the burning of incense for spiritual purposes.
Although the metaphysical properties of incense have not yet been scientifically proven, practitioners have been satisfied with the results since the beginning of (at least recorded) history. Furthermore, scientific discoveries regarding aromatherapy and the chemical composition of essential oils have some surprising 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 repellants against pests (insects). In aromatherapy, lavender is the most popular fragrance for calming and focusing the mind.
Exactly how the metaphysical properties of incense work is a subject of much 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 consider it 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 actual magical powers of incense. Those made of natural materials carry the earthly energy of the plant from which they originated. Additionally, 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 just to aid in meditation or divination, to empower one’s desires, or to simply do their own magic.
-Metaphysical properties of common incense fragrances-
INCENSE FOR PURIFICATION
Cedar, Copal, Eucalyptus, Jasmine, Lavender, Lemon, Sage, Sandalwood, Sweet Grass
INCENSE FOR PROTECTION
Cranberry, carnation, cedar, cinnamon, copal, dragon’s blood, frankincense, sage, sandalwood,
INCENSE FOR CLARITY AND DIVINATION
Basil, bay leaf, clove, damiana, frankincense, jasmine, orange, rose
LUCKY INCENSE
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 VALUE
Basil, cardamom, frankincense, musk, rose
INCENSE FOR POWER
Acacia, laurel, cedar, cinnamon, dragon’s blood, nutmeg, vanilla
INCENSE FOR HAPPINESS
Amber, Blueberry, Honeysuckle, Hyacinth, Lavender
INCENSE FOR HARMONY AND SERENITY
Angelica, chamomile, gardenia, lotus, lilac, ylang-ylang
INCENSE FOR WEALTH
Allspice, Blueberry, Clove, Honeysuckle, Jasmine, Mint, Musk, Patchouli
The fragrances listed above are all pure – one fragrance. There is also a wide variety of mixed incense 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 the scent of fresh flax. They are just an air freshener.
Of the many mixes intended for religion, meditation, and new age wear, it can be difficult to know which ones are genuine. This is simply a matter of smart shopping (reading reviews, buying from a trusted website) and experimenting to see what works for you.
Some incense mixes are designed for purposes such as those listed above. Many are specialized, like fragrances, to attract 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 with focused concentration on a specific intention can be performed while lighting the appropriate incense.
A space can be purified in preparation for the ceremony, or simply to enhance the atmosphere by lighting purifying incense and moving it around the room to distribute the smoke. Similarly, a person can purify himself by staining: brushing handfuls of smoke (usually sage) on the body.
When meditating, practicing divination, or cultivating psychic dreams, burn the appropriate incense for your goal, to increase the chances of success.
If you want to increase something, such as wealth or love, in your life regularly burn the appropriate incense and focus the appropriate intentions.
Remember, your best guide on any spiritual or metaphysical matter is your intuition and intention.