Acacia Gum 30g – Sacred Herb Resin Incense for Purification & Protection

Also known as Gum Arabic, this golden yellow resin has a 'glassy look' and a light, woody fragrance when burnt. It derives from several species of acacia that mostly grow as thorny bushes and are native to the arid regions of North Africa. The tree was honoured as the abode of a Goddess that could bestow fertility on women and heal the sick. In ancient Egypt it was used in the embalming procedure. Throughout the ancient world it played a role in medicine and magic. Gum Acacia has excellent binding properties and is very useful as a fixative for more volatile substances such as essential oils. It is used in incense blends intended for protection, healing, fertility and prosperity and is useful for spiritual grounding.

SACRED HERBS, GUMS AND RESINS
Since people first came together to honour the Gods and spirits of nature they used gums, resins and fragrant herbs to bring them closer to the divine beings and to give fragrant wings to their prayers. Every culture has their own sacred herbs that are particular to its region, yet, precious incense herbs and gums have also always been traded far beyond their country of origin. We offer a selection of these sacred herbs, gums and resins for those who wish to experiment with their own incense blends.

USE:
Star Child Incense provides the perfect ambrosia for the Gods and can be used for all kinds of meditations, rituals and ceremonies. Or, do as the Gods and simply gorge yourself on their beautiful scents. Traditionally, incense plays an important role in ritual purification often referred to as 'smudging'. The smoke is used to 'wash' away negative energies and emotions, thus cleansing the atmosphere. Likewise, it is also used to purify the hearts and minds of the participants prior to sacred ceremonies and rituals.

HOW TO BURN INCENSE:
Place a self-igniting charcoal disc on a fire-proof surface, well away from flammable objects. The charcoal disks can be ignited simply by holding a match or lighter to the rim. Be aware that these discs may occasionally spit and sparkle profusely upon ignition. Allow plenty of air to flow around the charcoal to ensure that it burns evenly. Some people prefer to open the window while the charcoal is igniting as it gives off quite a bit of smoke. Once the charcoal disc has finished sparkling it will start to glow, usually first on one side, then slowly spreading over the whole disc. When the entire disc is glowing red hot it is ready to use and you can place a little pinch of incense on top. As the disk glows through, the fire will concentrate in its centre. You may occasionally want to scrape off the ashes to expose the glowing centre and add fresh incense as desired.

CARE FOR YOUR INCENSE:
Incense keeps well and often improves with age if kept in a cool and dark place. Charcoal, on the other hand, does not, as it has a tendency to absorb moisture from the air. Once the packet has been opened, keep it in an airtight container to preserve its self-igniting properties.

CAUTION:
Keep incense and charcoal out of pet’s and children’s reach. Charcoal discs are highly flammable. PLEASE BE CAREFUL when igniting your charcoal disc. Once the disc has been lit do not touch it, as it will cause a burn. Make sure your incense dish is fire proof and does not conduct heat to the surface on which it stands. Glass (even glass ashtrays) will break. Do not dispose of the remaining ashes in a waste paper bin or plastic garbage bin as it may cause a fire. Do not hold the disc in your hand while lighting or burning.

How do you use natural incense?

Prepare a Heat Source: You'll need a heat-resistant container, such as an incense holder, or a charcoal burner specifically designed for resin incense. If you're using a charcoal burner, make sure it's on a stable surface and away from flammable materials.

Charcoal Incense Disc: If you're using a charcoal burner, place a charcoal disc on the burner. Light the edge of the charcoal disc until it starts to spark and crackle. Allow it to fully ignite and turn gray. This process may take a few minutes.

Add your particular Gum Resin Incense: Once the charcoal disc is fully ignited and has a layer of gray ash on top, you can start adding the myrrh resin. Use tongs or a spoon to place a small amount (usually a pinch or a few granules) of myrrh resin onto the hot charcoal.

Enjoy the Aroma: As the incense resin heats up, it will release a fragrant smoke. Enjoy the calming and aromatic atmosphere created by the burning incense.

Safety: Always exercise caution when working with burning materials.

Keep the burner away from children and pets, and ensure good ventilation in the room.

Allow the charcoal and resin to cool completely before disposing of any ashes.