Incense – an aroma that’s heaven scent!

From the gentle sound of running water to the relaxing drone of the sitar, the captivating flicker of a wavering candle flame to the comforting aroma of freshly baked naan, at Namaste we believe that every single sense should be gently stimulated.

The subtle scent of forest pachouli has been carefully selected to not only accompany but to complement your dining experience. They say incense is ‘the fragrance of the gods’, so let us take your dining experience to heavenly new heights.

What is incense?

Incense is a blend of aromatic plant-based materials usually combined with essential oils. When lit and burned, it releases a fragrant smoke, which can differ greatly depending on the ingredients used.

What does the word incense mean?

The word incense comes from the Latin, ‘incendere’, which means ‘to burn’. Incense can refer to both the material used and to the aroma it creates when burned.

When was incense first used?

There is hard evidence to support the fact that incense has been used for over 6000 years and is thought to be one of the very first fragrant materials to be produced and utilised by humans. Dating back to the ancient civilizations of China, Egypt and Mesopotamia, among others, incense was an integral part of daily life with priests and spiritual leaders performing ceremonies to cleanse or bless people, living or dead, or holy places, such as temples or tombs, or to worship gods or goddesses with exotic scents often filling the air.

Which plants and fragrances are commonly used in incense?

Depending on where incense is made, a whole variety of natural products can be combined to create an array of attractive aromas. Traditionally, incense was produced by extracting essential oils from the natural resin, or gum, excreted by plants such as the frankincense or myrrh tree. Extracts of cassia, lemongrass, ylang-ylang, cinnamon, styrax and sandalwood are also popular fragrances.

Why can the smell of incense affect our mood?

As every person is different, their sense of smell is different too. Some may prefer fruity or floral, others fresh or citrus fragrances. As the sense of smell is closely related to memory, a sudden smell can instantly take our thoughts to another time, place or experience, often from decades into our past. A smell coupled with a thought or image can make that memory far more vivid and can immediately impact our outlook or mood, for good or for bad.

Are there different forms of incense?

Incense is usually found in one of two forms. As a bamboo stick, which has one end coated in an incense paste then dried, or as a solid cone.

How is incense used in India?

For thousands of years, incense has been used throughout India at births, weddings, festivals and religious ceremonies to dispel negative energy and to ward off evil. In Ayurveda, one of the world’s oldest holistic healing systems, incense helps to aid the healing process, creating a clean, peaceful and calm environment.

What is the Hindi word for incense?

The Hindi word for incense is agarbatti. The name agarbatti is derived from agarwood, which is commonly used in Indian incense production.

Is the burning of incense limited to certain countries or religions?

Incense is now used the world over and is not limited by religious beliefs or cultural backgrounds. It is often burned in the home, in businesses, spas or hotels for its feelgood factor. Certain perfumes can have antibacterial properties that can help freshen or purify a space and, perhaps surprisingly, it can also be used as a natural deodorant or insect repellent.

Why is incense used alongside yoga or meditation?

Incense often accompanies yoga or meditation sessions as certain aromas are said to destress and aid spiritual focus while creating a more relaxed atmosphere allowing you to feel more at peace or centred. As the burning of an incense stick or cone can be timed, it can gently signal the end of a session without the need for an abrasive alarm.

Can incense aid sleep?

Many aromas, such as lavender, chamomile and vetiver can help to aid sleep by introducing a sense of calm and restfulness to an active mind.*

Is burning incense safe?

*It is crucial to ensure that any incense has been burned and extinguished prior to sleep or to leaving a room. Burning incense in a well ventilated room away from any flammable materials and in a suitable holder is essential and, whether during the day or at night, once lit it should never be left unattended.

Why has Namaste introduced their own line of incense sticks?

While dining at Namaste, we love every sense to feel invigorated. Whether it’s the taste of fresh ingredients or exotic spices or the touch of cool marble, we believe your sensual journey here is everything. The incredibly positive reaction we have had to the subtle aroma of incense made the choice very easy. If you wish to enjoy the same experience at home, it is our absolute honour to make that happen.

How are Namaste Agarbatti sticks made?

Namaste agarbatti sticks are hand-rolled in India while sacred mantras are chanted. Using recycled flowers donated at temples, their distinct fragrance incorporates a unique blend of exotic perfumes and essential oils, all of which are 100% natural and chemical free.

In conclusion

They say even the most delicate of scents can instantly transport you to another time or place. Due to the increasing interest shown by our customers, we have released a special Namaste agarbatti – Forest Patchouli. With its earthy, musky, spicy and slightly sweet tones, our custom blend is sure to take you on a calming, sensual journey across the centuries.

Experience the authentic taste of Indian cuisine at Namaste by Delhi Darbar. Book a table now for a memorable dining experience.

From breakfast to business lunch, family celebration to pre-cinema snacks or gathering with friends, your Namaste by Delhi Darbar experience starts here. Whatever the time of day, whatever the occasion, let us know your seating and dietary requirements and we will do our utmost to accommodate your every need.