Description
Black Gum Timber Incense Burner
Made from the Black Gum Tree and carved in Australia these incense holders are dark and beautiful and can hold our regular sized incense sticks.
Incense Burning Benefits
Although commonly thought of only as an air freshener, the burning of all natural incense has actually been found to have a range of positive physical and psychological effects. That said, these effects are only true for natural incense, free from harsh or damaging chemicals which often aggravate and promote health problems, such as allergies and asthma.
Reducing Stress and Anxiety
The inhalation of particular aromas has been found to be an effective method for reducing the heart rate and soothing nerves. This is due to a reduction in the production and release of stress hormones such as cortisol, which can have a very damaging effect on the body and mind. This further results in the relieving of built up tension in muscles. Cedarwood, sandalwood and other woody scents are particularly effective for this.
Increasing Focus
Monks and yogis have burned incense, wood chips and petals during their meditation for thousands of years, so as to help them clear the mind and improve concentration. Increased levels of focus directly correlate with increased productivity. The burning of livelier floral scents such as blue lotus and jasmine have been found to be the best for this and are ideal for working, studying and similar activities.
Promoting Calm
The naturally soothing nature of incense means that it can be very helpful for creating a tranquil environment. This process is similar to reducing stress and anxiety, with the burning of these natural aromatics creating a perfect atmosphere for relaxation and meditation. Sandalwood incense has been shown to be very calming.
Purifying the Air
Some incense even has special antibacterial properties, which enable them to naturally purify the air in a room, again promoting a relaxing atmosphere. Pure air has additional health benefits, in a similar way to eating healthy food. Although nag champa incense has been found to be the most effective, frankincense and myrrh also contain these properties.
Fighting Depression
A medical study determined that when inhaled, incense smoke activates ion channels in the brain which are closely associated with emotion and alleviating depression. This stimulates the production and release of TRPV3 – a protein which helps reduce anxiety and symptoms of depression (Moussaieff et al., 2008). Combining this with the positive effects of promoting calm and reducing stress, suggests incense is a valuable tool in the battle against depression. Frankincense incense was used during the study.
Stimulating Creativity
Being in the same environment as incense has been linked to heightened creativity. The basis for this is similar to listening to music – providing inspiration and motivation. Aromas are also a very powerful emotional memory trigger which can help to stimulate thoughts and creativeness (Collins, 2012). Agarwood incense is particularly effective due to its distinctive and psychoactive nature.
Treating Insomnia
The deeply soothing properties of some incense give the added benefit of sedative properties, helping to induce sleep for those who suffer from insomnia. Furthermore, this additionally reduces the impact of the association between stress and insomnia (Linton, 2004). Patchouli and lavender incense have a sedative nature.
Increasing Sexual Desire
Incense can act as a powerful aphrodisiac, stimulating the release of the hormone testosterone in both men and women, which increases blood flow to sexual organs. In addition, increased focus and reduced stress can increase confidence in the bedroom. Jasmine and vanilla incense are the most common aphrodisiacs, although warm and musky scents have also been found to work well for women.
SOOTHING HEADACHES
Certain fragrances trigger a response from the Limbic System which results in a release of Serotonin which helps combat a headache (Isaacson, 1982). Serotonin also works to help lower blood pressure and balance our mood, with a deficiency in Serotonin linked to depression. Rose incense is most commonly linked with increased Serotonin levels.
Preventing Infections
A recent Chinese study discovered incense smoke to act just as effective as steam for hospital sterilisation. This is especially true for incense that contains a lot of resins, as they contain naturally antiseptic compounds. Pure frankincense and myrrh resin are shown to be particularly effective.
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