The Power of Incense... It's More Than An Air Freshener!

So many of us burn incense in our homes for a variety of purposes. I know I use incense pretty regularly for so many things. But do you know that burning incense doesn't just leave a pretty smell in your space. It actually has a few other beneficial effects! 

Burning incense can actually cause a change in your body when you are around it and smell it. Studies have shown that the inhalation of an incense such as Frankincense can actually decrease inflammation in our bodies and increase our euphoria, or those "good and positive feelings". There have been studies done in Germany that have shown that Frankincense incense in particular, can decrease the inflammatory response in people that suffer from osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. 

"Through experimentation, scientists figured out there was an active compound in incense known as incensole acetate. This compound was then given to mice in a controlled setting. Researchers noticed that the incense compound actually had a dual effect: it was an anti-inflammatory, and it boosted their mood significantly." http://blog.sivanaspirit.com/science-incense-brain/

Burning incense can help when you're meditating to bring about a sense of calmness and 'centered-ness'. Certain incenses can be helpful for lucid dreaming as well. There are certain types of incense that can help to relax you so much that they are beneficial for those with insomnia; such as benzoin, mugwort, or lavender. Looking to increase your confidence levels and motivation? Try burning some chamomile, Rosemary or Musk.

Incense also releases negative ions into the air when it is being burned. These negative ions neutralize the positive ions in the air and this is why you'll notice that after burning incense in your space, you feel a sense of "lightness" in the air. 

"Ions are sometimes called the vitamins of the air. (WebMD) Negative ions increase the flow of oxygen to the brain which corresponds with elevated alertness and mental energy. Ion technology, commonly implemented by air purifiers and sophisticated fans, pumps negative ions into the air, helping to eliminate all kinds of nasty stuff like odors and pollutants; that’s dust, cigarette smoke, pet dander, pollen, mold spores, viruses, and bacteria, just to name a few. In short, negative ions protect the body from stress, germs and airborne particulates (or pollution). (Nutrition Review)" (The Science of Smudging).

So, clearly there is some scientific evidence that the ancient practice of burning incense has benefits and value. Have you used incense for anything other than hiding odors? Share your thoughts in the comments!