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to light an incense charcoal block
The charcoal used is not the same charcoal as you use in a BBQ, it has been specially designed for burning incense. These blocks are usually available in most “new age” shops and are quite inexpensive. They are used to burn "loose" incense on (Powdered or crushed herbs only.) The way
to use a charcoal block is as follows. Place the charcoal block (which
should look like a black disc) on it’s side in a heatproof dish of salt
or sand (kitty litter can apparently also be used - although I haven’t
tested this). This absorbs the heat. Light the top edge of
the charcoal block (which is actually the side since you have it on its
side) and stand back. The charcoal block should start to pop,
fizzle and send off clouds of smoke, as red sparks travel down the block.
As the sparks are about half way down the block, use a knife or some other
metal object to knock the block over so that the hollowed out side is on
top (If it has a hollowed out side). When the block has stopped smoking
and fizzing it is now ready to use. Add about 1/8 teaspoon
(depending on the size of your block) at a time, and when it has stopped
producing smoke, scrape off the ash and add fresh incense.
You can place a piece of aluminium foil between the charcoal block and
the sand (before you light it) if you wish, which will collect the ash
and save your sand from becoming mixed with the ash and charcoal.
Some people
prefer to use Aromatherapy Stick incense rather than using an oil burner
or other Aromatherapy method. However making stick incense can be
difficult for some people, so this is an easier method. Take a reasonably
plain incense stick (like Sandalwood) and use a few drops of your chosen
Essential oil to drip onto the incense stick. Leave this to dry.
Only use a small amount of the Essential oil, or your incense might not
burn. Once it is dryed out, you can use the incense, which will now
have an Aromatherapy touch.
Tip for Incense cones Submitted by Anonymous When making Incense cones, sticks or other wet incense, make a small batch and then add to it if neccessary, that way, if you misread the recipe or do something wrong, you haven't wasted all your ingredients. Also, you can dry your incense in the sunlight or in a VERY low oven to dry it out faster. I like to make my incense cones, then dry one in the oven, test it and if it works I make the rest. If it doesn't work I can then alter the recipe because I still have the bowl full of mix. Remember, it is always better to add a small amount of Salt Petre and add more to the mix after you've tested one, than add too much and end up making little bombs. Storing your Incense Submitted by Obsidian If you can't find any jars or containers to store your incense in, try using those plastic takeaway food containers. They stack well and are reasonably air tight. You can also buy smaller ones (Used as samples or for sauce) at some places that sell party supplies, like napkins and paper plates.  |