Indian incense sticks date back to the era of Vedas, especially the Rig-Veda and the Atharva-Veda. The Ayurveda since time immemorial has been using incense sticks as a healing element. Later, catering to its pleasing aroma and soothing capabilities, people started using agarbattis for religious practices.
Presently, India is a producer and exporter of agarbattis and there are many distinct reasons why incense sticks manufactured here stand out from global products.
How incense sticks of India are different from global ones?
Well, Indian incense favours unique exotic scents that are otherwise not available in other parts of the globe. The major ingredients in agarbattis (the Indian version) include masala and charcoal. These are blended and infused with scented solid ingredients that are later given the form of a thin stick.
Masala incense known for its sweet and spicy aroma easily fills up a room in no time. With its high potency, it rejuvenates the senses and acts as a relaxing element.
The charcoal incense, on the other hand, is more perfumed but less potent. However, these sweet earthy fragrances leave the mind in a state of bliss creating a meditative state thus inducing spiritualism in anyone being subjected to it.
However, when it comes to the utility of burning ‘Agarbatti’, there are several noteworthy situations.
The motive behind burning incense sticks:
During Yoga or Meditation
The primary reason of burning incense sticks is that it provides a sense of tranquillity. For practicing yoga or meditation, they act as stimulants that aid in making the body more languid and free the mind of any contamination.
To facilitate emotional release
Scents play a huge role in heightening senses. Some fragrances cater to providing calmness, whilst some regulate joy and positivity. It depends on the type of fragrances used. Some even heighten sensuality, all of which provide an emotional release.
For Religious purpose
The very basic use of Agarbatti is by monks or priests who use incense to amplify the atmosphere of tranquillity in a religious setting. This helps followers attain a sense of spiritual awakening amongst them. Besides, agarbattis are also used in every Indian household during regular prayers.
To heighten awareness
Agarbatti often acts as an ingredient that can make one feel more connected with oneself. Moreover, it keep thoughts aligned, thus making it easier to focus, thus enhancing awareness.
To soothe and heal
Incense sticks over ages have been primary ingredients of therapeutic practice as they are extremely useful when it comes to cleansing and healing the mind and body.
To heighten spirituality
Burning an agarbatti is considerably the best way to open oneself, look beyond the senses and induce a deeper connection with oneself.
Note: Most Indian incense sticks are strongly scented and sometimes contain innumerable organic chemicals or essence. So choose accordingly to avoid allergic reactions. It is the best to do your research and buy from reputed brands.
‘Agarbatti’ is thus the ultimate cheap option for unwinding and reconnecting with oneself. Therefore, give your senses a relief and choose your unique scent; the choices online are countless.