The History and Origin of Incense

 The Significance of Incense Throughout History

Incense has been real as long as humanity has. Lit in sacred spaces, such as temples, in homes, and also in other communal gatherings, people burned incense to lift prayers, purify energies, and calm busy minds. Incense's relevance, is not only as a lovely scent, but as a way to connect us to something greater- the divine, each other, and to ourselves.

The Beginning of Incense

The earliest evidence of incense use dates back over 5,000 years, with practices in Ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia cultures, and the Indus Valley civilization. People circulated Frankincense and Myrrh as part of trade on the spice route, they were also offered in temples or placed into the tombs of the deceased as part of burial offerings and to accompany their spirit into the afterlife. In both China and Japan, incense was utilized as part of ritual and meditation practices. In India, the use of incense has always been of importance in Vedic  ceremonies and practices of Ayurveda.

How Incense Went Global:

Egypt: Used in the process of embalming as well as offerings to the gods.

India: Involved in pujas or religious rituals, in healing practices, and in meditation.

China & Japan: Central to tea ceremonies and for Zen practices and meditation.

Europe: Involved in the spread of trading and adaptation of incense in Christian liturgy. 

What Incense Means Today

Today, incense is not simply lit for the moment, sitting in ritual space. Incense is now lit in yoga studios, in homes, and in private meditation spaces around the world. Incense no longer serves solely sacred purposes, but now is seen in aspects of wellness, mindfulness, and even interior design. 

Why Calmveda Upholds Tradition

At Calmveda, we are carrying on an ancient lineage by hand crafting incense using genuine resins, woods, and herbs. Our Frankincense and Myrrh incense combines the same ageless mixtures once used in temples and churches. 

Final Thoughts

The history of incense is the history of humans' journey seeking meaning. Every stick burned, holds the connection of centuries past, with the modern day rituals of calm and clarity. 

Read our sacred blends in our incense varieties, and check out our guide on Which Incense Is Best for Health?