INCENSE FOR THE GODS ~ Natural Aromatics from Ancient Technology

Posted by Emma Leafe on

Ancient Aromatics

Earliest texts documented the use of ancient aromatics as a tool to worship gods through incense: the Latin phrase per fumum, literally meaning ‘through the smoke’. Thousands of years ago, incense was the only perfume known - aromatics in the form of fragrant smoke: Scented woods, gums and resins, derived from the plant kingdom, were burnt to release their precious fragrance: myrrh, frankincense, galbanum, benzoin. The Romans favoured opoponax and Aztecs in the Americas, copal amongst others

History & Ceremony

Today the deeply affecting scent of Frankincense is synonymous with temples. Where priests ceremonially smoulder its tears inside elaborate incense burners. Frankincense is native to a handful of countries, so obtaining it from the East has historically been costly. Once carried on the famous camel caravans, though mountains, deserts and along costal paths for trade - its value, on par with gold, worth the long journey. Frankincense and myrrh are synonymous gifts of the Magi – gold, frankincense and myrrh. During this time of year this spellbinding natural scent still evokes mystery and magic

emma leafe premium natural incense sticks, frankincense, black silk porcelain

← Older Post Newer Post →

Journal

RSS
ethical sourcing gift guide

Ume Gift Guide 2024

By Emma Leafe

Gift Guide offerings of love The Ume Gift Guide 2024. A collection of signature artisan heirlooms. From Dreaming Mists to Ritual Sets honouring the Elements....

Read more
meditation mental health rituals self care self empowerment

Tending to Powerful Emotions

By Emma Leafe

Like many people over the course of the past few years, I've been tending to some deep emotional states, in my case grief. As I...

Read more