Incense Explorer: A Deep Dive into Incense History, Culture, Ritual and Lore

Burning incense is a practice embraced by nearly every single culture throughout history. It is both spiritual and medicinal as well as one of life's most profoundly simple pleasures. Grounded in ritual, yet unpretentious and accessible to everyone. Journey with us as we explore the history, culture, plants, medicine and everything in between this sacred yet simplistic pastime.

The World Makes Scents with Dave and Smey Schultz 09/11/2024

Frankincense and the Importance of Traceability in the Supply Chain with Stephen Johnson 08/28/2024

Frankincense and the Importance of Traceability in the Supply Chain with Stephen Johnson Stephen Johnson, founder of Fair Source Botanicals, shares his journey into working with aromatics and his focus on frankincense and myrrh. He emphasizes the importance of transparency in the supply chain and the need to respect the communities involved. Johnson discusses the challenges and opportunities in the frankincense and myrrh trade, as well as the need for conservation efforts. He also mentions other botanicals, such as rosewood and palm, and the importance of sustainable practices in the industry as a whole. In this conversation, Stephen Johnson and Alyssa discuss the importance of ethical sourcing and transparency in the botanical industry. They highlight the need for consumers to have access to information about the sustainability and ethical practices of the products they purchase. They specifically discuss the case of Palo Santo, a tree that is wild harvested in Peru and Ecuador. While the species as a whole is not threatened, the harvesting practices in certain regions can be problematic. They emphasize the importance of traceability and accountability in the supply chain to ensure the ethical sourcing of botanicals. They also discuss the role of collaboration and pre-competitive collaboration in driving systemic change in the industry. keywordsaromatics, frankincense, myrrh, transparency, supply chain, conservation, sustainability, ethical sourcing, transparency, botanical industry, Palo Santo, sustainability, traceability, accountability, collaboration, systemic change takeaways Transparency is crucial in the aromatics supply chain to drive accountability and address challenges. Conservation efforts are needed to protect frankincense and myrrh trees and ensure their sustainable harvesting. The myrrh trade often receives less attention, but it faces similar pressures as frankincense. Different botanicals require unique approaches to sustainability and conservation. Supporting ethical and sustainable sources is key to promoting positive change in the industry. Consumers should have access to information about the sustainability and ethical practices of the products they purchase. Traceability and accountability are crucial in ensuring the ethical sourcing of botanicals. Collaboration and pre-competitive collaboration can drive systemic change in the industry. The professional aromatherapy community has the potential to be leaders in promoting sustainability and ethical practices in the essential oil industry. Chapters 00:00Introduction and Background 03:23The Importance of Transparency in the Aromatics Supply Chain 06:29Conservation Efforts for Frankincense and Myrrh 11:05The Overlooked Myrrh Trade 17:02Sustainability Challenges and Opportunities in the Botanical Industry 25:45Supporting Ethical and Sustainable Sources in the Aromatics Industry 30:56Ethical Sourcing and Transparency 36:40Due Diligence in Sourcing 41:40Creating Awareness and Demand for Better Sourcing 49:51The Role of the Professional Aromatherapy Community Links /episode/index/show/65acb7e3-760b-4723-b1f9-1bca10b4e71d/id/32750427

Exploring the Fragrant Forest with Bonnie Kerr 07/17/2024

Exploring the Fragrant Forest with Bonnie Kerr Summary Bonnie shares her background and journey with aromatics, from her childhood experiences in nature to living in different environments like New York City, the Caribbean, and Hawaii. She discusses how these experiences shaped her connection with nature and her approach to creating incense. Bonnie emphasizes the importance of using whole botanicals in her incense-making process and the unique scentscapes she creates. She also explores the history and uses of aromatic plants like myrrh and frankincense in ancient cultures. In this conversation, Alyssa and Bonnie discuss the power of aromatics and the importance of connecting with nature through scent. They explore the significance of burning incense and how it can connect us with our ancestors and the non-physical world. They also discuss the difference between natural aromatics and synthetic fragrances, highlighting the depth and meaning that comes from working with natural plants. Bonnie shares her love for working with resins, mushrooms, and lichens, and how they contribute to her incense blends. They also touch on the importance of understanding the energy and properties of plants when working with them. Takeaways Bonnie's journey with aromatics began in her childhood, where she developed a deep connection with nature. She creates incense that is heated rather than burned, using whole botanicals to capture the full aromatic profile of the plants. Bonnie's incense-making process is inspired by her experiences in different environments, such as the forests of Hawaii and the boreal forest in Canada. She explores the history and uses of aromatic plants like myrrh and frankincense in ancient cultures, highlighting their significance in women's medicine and spiritual practices. Burning incense can connect us with our ancestors and the non-physical world. Working with natural aromatics provides a deeper and more meaningful experience than synthetic fragrances. Resins, mushrooms, and lichens are unique and powerful ingredients for incense blends. Understanding the energy and properties of plants enhances the experience of working with them. Sound Bites "I was living in the rainforest off grid. You didn't really need one there, just like a screened-in room." "I view the fragrance as the voices of plants." "I specialize in incense that you heat, as opposed to burning it. So there's no smoke." "Burning incense connects you with the non-physical world." "Working with natural aromatics is so much more than just a smell." "Mushrooms are a big part of the forest sensecape." Links Chapters 00:00Introduction and Background 02:31Living in Different Environments 10:06Creating Scentscapes with Whole Botanicals 13:08Heating Incense and Avoiding Smoke 21:19Exploring Myrrh and Frankincense in Ancient Cultures 32:03The Power of Aromatics and Connecting with Nature 33:11Natural Aromatics vs. Synthetic Fragrances 36:25Exploring Resins, Mushrooms, and Lichens in Incense 48:23Understanding the Energy and Properties of Plants Keywords aromatics, incense, nature, fragrance, plants, Hawaii, forest, essential oils, myrrh, frankincense, aromatics, incense, nature, ancestors, synthetic fragrances, resins, mushrooms, lichens, energy, properties /episode/index/show/65acb7e3-760b-4723-b1f9-1bca10b4e71d/id/32166782

For the Love of Frankincense with Dr. Anjanette DeCarlo 07/03/2024

For the Love of Frankincense with Dr. Anjanette DeCarlo Summary Anjanette discusses her background and how she became interested in frankincense. She talks about her work as an environmental activist and her transition into working with companies on corporate social responsibility. Anjanette explains why she chose to focus on Somalia and Somaliland and the challenges and issues in the region's frankincense supply chain. She emphasizes the importance of transparency, traceability, and sustainability in the industry. Anjanette also discusses the impact of the essential oil industry on the demand for frankincense and the need for consumer awareness and regulation to improve ethical practices. The conversation explores the passion and love that communities have for protecting frankincense trees, as well as the challenges they face due to climate change and deforestation. It highlights the vulnerability of these communities to outside companies taking advantage of their situation. The discussion also touches on the issue of greenwashing in the wellness industry and the need for more transparency and ethical practices. The conversation concludes with a focus on the work of Save Frankincense, which aims to create a traceable and ethical supply chain through the use of blockchain technology. Takeaways Anjanette's love for trees and her background in environmental sciences led her to become interested in frankincense. She transitioned from being an environmental activist to working with companies on corporate social responsibility. Anjanette chose to focus on Somalia and Somaliland due to the overlooked African contribution to the frankincense supply chain and the endemic species that grow in the region. The frankincense supply chain faces challenges such as lack of transparency, traceability, and sustainability. The essential oil industry has increased the demand for frankincense, leading to overtapping and social disruption in communities. Improving ethical practices in the frankincense supply chain requires a combination of consumer awareness, regulation, and certifications. Communities have a deep passion and love for protecting frankincense trees, which are a cultural heritage for them. Climate change and deforestation have disrupted the traditional lifestyles of these communities and made them more vulnerable. The wellness industry is plagued by greenwashing, and there is a need for more transparency and ethical practices. Save Frankincense is working on creating a traceable and ethical supply chain for frankincense through the use of blockchain technology. Sound Bites "I developed a very strong love of trees." "I was hooked. The gentlemen were talking to me about frankincense trees." "There's so much frankincense in here. That's pretty much all you smell once you come into my office." "They absolutely have tons of passion to protect frankincense. They love their trees. They're such a cultural heritage that they own in their hearts for frankincense." "The global community is pretty tired of being lied to. Greenwashing is a serious problem." "Everything is traceable unless you don't want it to be. It's really a matter of will." Links Chapters 00:00Introduction and Background 02:18Becoming Interested in Frankincense 06:02The Overwhelming Scent of Frankincense 09:20Transparency and Consumer Awareness 12:41The Importance of Traceability and Sustainability 27:17Passion and Love for Protecting Frankincense 29:34Challenges Faced by Communities 32:24Greenwashing in the Wellness Industry 45:12Creating a Traceable and Ethical Supply Chain /episode/index/show/65acb7e3-760b-4723-b1f9-1bca10b4e71d/id/31915847

9.Sustainable Aromatics: Redefining Incense 09/21/2023

8. Memoir in a Perfume Bottle: A Journey into Japanese Incense with Maria McElroy 08/02/2023

8. Memoir in a Perfume Bottle: A Journey into Japanese Incense with Maria McElroy In this episode, we are joined by Maria McElroy, and she is just an utter delight. Maria has synthesized her love of blending colors and textures with her passion for scent. After receiving an MFA in painting from the San Francisco Art Institute, Maria continued her studies in Australia, becoming a certified aromatherapist. Later, she went on to live in Japan for seven years, where she studied Kodo (Japanese incense ceremony) and Japanese flower arrangement, along with other traditional Japanese arts. Maria shares her journey into the world of perfumery, inspired by her experiences with the rarefied incense ceremony called Kodo in Japan. She explains how Kodo is known to the tea ceremony, focusing on using olfactory senses to transport oneself into the moment. She emphasizes the importance of fragrance as a personal and intimate experience, and how her perfumes are designed to be delicate, sophisticated, and close to the wearer, creating a unique connection. Episode Highlights: Maria's love for blending colors and textures with her passion for scent. Her journey from MFA in painting to becoming a certified aromatherapist. Living in Japan for seven years, studying Kodo and Japanese flower arrangement. Launching her fragrance line, Aroma M, inspired by Japanese culture and incense. Discussion on Kodo and its similarities to tea ceremonies. The art of listening to fragrance and its significance in Kodo. Maria's experiences in traditional incense games and poetry. How her Kodo experiences influenced her approach to perfumery. Maria's preference for delicate and sophisticated fragrances in her line. The relevance of incense in Japanese daily life and rituals. Suggestions for experiencing incense culture in Japan. Maria's favorite types of incense and their use in her life. And so much more! Stay Connected with Maria: Instagram: @ LinkedIn: Website: http://www.aromam.com/ Connect with Incense Explorer Host: Instagram: and Linkedin: Website: /episode/index/show/65acb7e3-760b-4723-b1f9-1bca10b4e71d/id/27634029

7. From Temples to Tombs: Exploring the Mystical World of Ancient Egyptian Incense with Shane Clayton 07/20/2023

7. From Temples to Tombs: Exploring the Mystical World of Ancient Egyptian Incense with Shane Clayton Welcome to Incense Explorer! In this episode, we dive deep into the fascinating world of ancient Egyptian incense practices with our special guest, Shane Clayton, an ancient Egypt aficionado and expert on fragrance, specifically incense. Shane discusses the usage of incense for purification and consecration of temple sanctuaries and the significance of different incense types. He reveals his experience of encountering the kyphi incense recipe on temple walls during his visit to Egypt. Tune in to learn about the sacred oils, the mystical rituals, and the mysteries of ancient Egypt's incense offerings. Episode Highlights: --Introducing Shane Clayton - An Ancient Egypt Aficionado: Shane Clayton's fascination with ancient Egypt. Life-changing events leading to his trip to Egypt. The significance of his visit to Egypt during the spring equinox. --Ancient Egyptian Incense Practices: Ancient Egypt's connection to incense use and Western esoteric traditions. The role of incense in purification and consecration of temple sanctuaries. Burning incense three times a day - morning, noon, and night - for over 3500 years. Different incense used for specific gods and goddesses based on gender and symbolism. The importance of frankincense and myrrh in ancient Egyptian rituals. The seven sacred oils and their association with the divine. --The Discovery of Ancient Incense Recipes: Shane's serendipitous encounter with a museum guide who reveals the ancient recipes. The significance of the seven sacred oils in ancient Egyptian culture. Different theories on the use of incense in ancient Egypt. The importance of a god named Anubis in Shane's incense journey. --The Mystery of Cliffy/Kyphi Incense: Ancient Egyptian recipes for Cliffy/Kyphi incense found on temple walls. Different translations and interpretations of the ingredients. Shane's discovery of the missing ingredients in the ancient incense recipe. The sacred and mystical significance of Cliffy/Kyphi incense. Stay Connected with Shane Clayton: Facebook: Website: Connect with Incense Explorer Host: Instagram: and Linkedin: Website: /episode/index/show/65acb7e3-760b-4723-b1f9-1bca10b4e71d/id/27519948

6. The Power of Scent: Exploring the Sense of Smell with Frauke Galia 07/12/2023

5. From Roots to Rituals: Harnessing the Healing Power of Plants in Incense and Herbalism with Kerry Hughes 07/05/2023

5. From Roots to Rituals: Harnessing the Healing Power of Plants in Incense and Herbalism with Kerry Hughes In this episode, Alyssa welcomes guest Kerry, an ethnobotanist with a passion for plants, herbalism, and incense. Kerry explains how her love for plants started in her childhood, spending time in nature and developing a deep connection with the natural world. She initially pursued a career in medicine but discovered her true calling when she stumbled upon ethnobotany during her university studies. Kerry shares her experiences working in the herbalism and nutraceutical industries, particularly focusing on bringing new plants and plant products to the market. She highlights the importance of quality control and standardized practices in herbal products. Throughout the episode, Alyssa and Kerry delve into the beauty and cultural significance of incense, exploring its global presence and diverse uses. They shed light on the ancient practice and call for a deeper understanding and respect for this powerful botanical tool. Check Out These Episode Highlights: Kerry’s journey into ethnobotany and her interest in the relationships between plants and humans. She discusses her early connection with nature and how it led her to study botany in university. Kerry shares her discovery of ethnobotany and how it combined her passions for botany, medicine, and chemistry. The importance of indigenous knowledge and the cultivation of aromatic plants. Kerry talks about the challenges in the herbal industry, including unethical practices and false claims. She reflects on her experiences encountering incense during her travels and collecting different types from around the world. The misuse of incense in the US and the negative connotations associated with low-quality incense products. Alyssa shares her initial dislike for incense and her realization about the beauty of natural aromatic plants used in traditional incense. The significance of using natural, quality incense and the cultural importance of incense in different regions. The benefits of using natural incense made from plants like agarwood or sandalwood, which provide a mild and nuanced scent compared to synthetic or essential oil-based incense. Incense burning is not just about the pleasant smell but also the relaxation and grounding benefits it provides. The use of incense in religious and spiritual practices is a way to give reverence and connect to a higher power or inner spirituality. The effects of burning incense and the specific chemicals released in the smoke are not yet fully understood and require further research. Different types of incense Advice for newcomers to incense includes avoiding low-quality or synthetic incense and exploring natural options available at natural food stores. And so much more! Featured in the episode: Kerry’s Book: : Plant Scents That Transcend World Culture, Medicine and Spirituality Connect with Incense Explorer Host: Instagram: and Linkedin: Website: Stay Connected with Kerry: Facebook: LinkedIn: Website: /episode/index/show/65acb7e3-760b-4723-b1f9-1bca10b4e71d/id/27372852

4. Preserving Incense's Fragrant Legacy: A Journey into Plant Sustainability with Kelly Ablard 06/28/2023

4. Preserving Incense's Fragrant Legacy: A Journey into Plant Sustainability with Kelly Ablard In this episode, Alyssa introduces Kelly Ablard, founder of Airmid Institute, and expert in aromatic plant sustainability. They discuss the lack of transparency in the incense industry regarding the sourcing of ingredients and the importance of demanding transparency from manufacturers. Kelly shares her experiences in Peru, where she worked with indigenous communities and went on an expedition to find wild populations of Rosewood, an endangered plant used for its aromatic properties. They discuss the significance of Rosewood and its role in perfumery, pharmaceuticals, and other industries. Kelly explains the challenges of sustainable sourcing and the issue of adulteration in the trade of Rosewood oil. They also touch upon the Convention on International Trade of Endangered Species (CITES) and its role in regulating the trade of endangered flora and fauna. About Kelly Ablard: Kelly Ablard holds a Doctorate in Biology, an MSc in Conservation, and is a certified Conservation Aromatherapist. As Founder and CEO of the California-based NGO Airmid Institute, she is dedicated to the global education, research, and sustainability of medicinal and non-medicinal aromatic plants, and their traditional uses in Indigenous communities. Kelly’s work has been published in numerous peer-reviewed journals and she has presented for multiple international professional aromatherapy associations. She received the BCAOA Achievement of Excellence Award and was highlighted as an outstanding alumna by Simon Fraser University as CEO of Airmid Institute. Kelly is also Co-owner and Co-principal of Essence of Thyme College of Holistic Studies, which is internationally recognized for their high-quality online aromatherapy certification diploma programs. Check Out Episode Highlights: Lack of transparency in the incense industry regarding ingredient sourcing Kelly's background in biology, conservation, and aromatherapy Research on the conservation status of essential oil-bearing plants Experiences in Peru and the search for wild populations of Rosewood Significance of Rosewood and its uses in various industries Challenges of sustainable sourcing and the issue of adulteration Introduction to the Convention on International Trade of Endangered Species (CITES) Importance of considering both plant and human populations in sustainability efforts Supporting impoverished indigenous communities through sustainable sourcing The importance of supporting ethical sourcing and transparent supply chains for threatened plants like frankincense. Alyssa raises concerns about the resource-intensive process of extracting essential oils and the need for responsible usage to avoid excessive accumulation. The state of agarwood, one of the most expensive and threatened products in the world, highlighting the challenges in its production and the impact of human intervention. The discussion emphasizes the need for conscious buying decisions, using oils sparingly, and considering alternative plant species for therapeutic benefits. The critical status of agarwood species And so much more! Featured in the episode: Airmid Threatened Species List: Connect with Incense Explorer Host: Instagram: and Linkedin: Website: Stay Connected with Kelly: Kickstarter: Instagram: Website: /episode/index/show/65acb7e3-760b-4723-b1f9-1bca10b4e71d/id/27288552

Incense Explorer Trailer 06/15/2023

3. From Aesthetics to Medicine: Exploring the Sacred Art of Incense in Tibetan Culture with Erik Jampa Anderson 06/15/2023

3. From Aesthetics to Medicine: Exploring the Sacred Art of Incense in Tibetan Culture with Erik Jampa Anderson In this episode, join hosts Alyssa and Erik as they delve into the fascinating world of Tibetan Medicine. Erik, a practitioner and enthusiast, shares his personal journey of discovering Tibetan Medicine, its impact on his health, and his deep involvement in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition. Discover the syncretic nature of Tibetan Medicine, its historical roots in the Silk Roads, and its integration of diverse knowledge traditions. Explore the ancient compendium of medical knowledge and its continued relevance in modern Tibetan Medicine practice. Tune in to gain insights into this rich and holistic healing tradition! Episode Highlights: Erik's personal experience with Tibetan Medicine and its transformative impact on his health. Erik's background in Tibetan Buddhism and his involvement in the tradition. Erik's decision to study Tibetan Medicine and his specialization in ritual arts and traditional practices. Alyssa's questions about Erik's early interest in Buddhism and his spiritual journey. Exploring the syncretic nature of Tibetan Medicine and its influences The historical connections of Tibet and the Tibetan Plateau with the Silk Roads and its significance in the development of Tibetan Medicine. Conclusion and reflections on the wisdom of Tibetan Medicine. The commercial trade of incense has influenced incense production in places like India, altering traditional approaches. Tibetan tradition benefits from the rich medicinal incense traditions of India and specializes in Tibetan Medicine. Incense is used for aesthetic purposes and has spiritual significance, including summoning divinities and repelling afflictive entities. Incense plays a role in Tibetan Medicine, particularly in treating disorders caused by external beings and infectious diseases. Burning incense is believed to make substances available to other beings and is used for making offerings and communicating with unseen beings. Incense in Tibetan Buddhism, such as juniper and cypress, is used for purification and making offerings to local spirits. The relationship with plants and the release of their spirits factor into the benefits of incense. Incense has a spiritual impact on the mind and can evoke specific states of mind and memories. The concept of liberation through smell is tied to the evocative nature of scents and their impact on our emotions and recollections. Incense is used in medicine for fumigation against energetic and microbial pollution, as well as averting pests in marketplaces. And so much more! Connect with Incense Explorer Host: Instagram: and Linkedin: Website: incenseexplorer.com Stay Connected with Eric: Instagram:@ Website: or Book: /episode/index/show/65acb7e3-760b-4723-b1f9-1bca10b4e71d/id/27156621

2. Pt. 2 - From Ancient Origins to Modern Traditions: Exploring the World of Incense with Stephen Hoffman 06/15/2023

2. Pt. 2 - From Ancient Origins to Modern Traditions: Exploring the World of Incense with Stephen Hoffman In this episode, we continue the captivating conversation with our guest, Stephen Hoffman. If you haven't listened to episode one yet, we highly recommend going back and doing so first. You don't want to miss out on the insightful discussions we had in the first half. Episode Highlights: Stephen discusses the different traditions of incense in Buddhist and Taoist practices, including their unique processing methods. He shares his first encounter with incense while practicing kung fu, where he learned about setting up an altar and burning incense as part of the practice. Stephen delves into the legends and stories surrounding incense in Chinese culture The concept of using incense as a clock in China, where trails of incense were burned to keep track of prayers and time. Stephen talks about the fascinating practice of using incense to scent hair in ancient China, particularly with aloeswood and sandalwood. The discussion shifts to the presence of Buddhism and incense in Korea, despite the country being predominantly Christian. Korean incense is highlighted, particularly the use of a special juniper tree that gives off a unique, rich aroma. The exploration of incense continues in Japan, where Zen and Shinto traditions have influenced the culture of incense. Stephen explains how different Zen temples in Japan have their own incense recipes, often derived from Chinese traditions but with local variations. The practice of Kodo, where individuals gather to pass around a cup of burning aloeswood and write poems inspired by its aroma, is discussed. And so much more! These highlights provide a glimpse into the wide-ranging topics covered in Part 2 of the podcast episode, offering insights into various incense traditions and their cultural significance. Connect with Incense Explorer Host: Instagram: and Linkedin: Website: Stay Connected with Stephen: Website: /episode/index/show/65acb7e3-760b-4723-b1f9-1bca10b4e71d/id/27156561

1. Pt. 1 - From Ancient Origins to Modern Traditions: Exploring the World of Incense with Stephen Hoffman 06/15/2023

1. Pt. 1 - From Ancient Origins to Modern Traditions: Exploring the World of Incense with Stephen Hoffman In this inaugural episode, your host Alyssa is thrilled to introduce her very first guest, Stephen Hoffman, an expert in the world of incense. Their conversation on incense is so extensive that it has been divided into two parts to ensure you don't miss any of the fascinating insights. In Part 1, Alyssa and Stephen dive deep into the history of incense and the incense trade, uncovering its origins and evolution over time. Stephen, a lifelong student of various disciplines including martial arts, traditional Chinese medicine, and esoteric body knowledge, brings a wealth of information and experience to the discussion. He has even maintained a journal of over 1500 instances of incense use, making him a true connoisseur. Join Alyssa and Stephen as they explore the captivating world of incense, tracing its roots from ancient Egypt to its significance in religious and cultural practices worldwide. Discover the surprising connections between incense, martial arts, and yoga, and gain insights into the role of incense in communicating with the divine. Episode Highlights: Alyssa introduces her first guest, Stephen Hoffman, an incense enthusiast with extensive knowledge and experience. Stephen shares how his fascination with incense began and the role of a chance encounter with aloeswood in sparking his curiosity. Alyssa and Stephen discuss the connection between incense, spirituality, and offering to deities. The duo explores the historical significance of incense in different cultures, including its mention in the Bible. Stephen highlights the interplay between incense, martial arts, and yoga in his own life and the broader historical context. Alyssa and Stephen shed light on the ancient incense trade, including the routes and valuable ingredients involved. And so much more! Tune in to Part 2 of this captivating conversation to delve deeper into the world of incense with Alyssa and her guest, Stephen Hoffman. Connect with Incense Explorer Host: Instagram: and Linkedin: Website: incenseexplorer.com Stay Connected with Stephen: Website: /episode/index/show/65acb7e3-760b-4723-b1f9-1bca10b4e71d/id/27156546

Incense Explorer: A Deep Dive into Incense History, Culture, Ritual and Lore

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