Neolithic Times

China: The first documented use of incense began in China during the Neolithic times. People burned fragrant plants to create pleasant-smelling smoke, flavor food, and make offerings to gods. Mugwort, ginger, and cinnamon were popular.

3300-1300 BCE

Indus Civilization: The first use of roots in incense was in the Indus Civilization, spreading to regions like Babylon, Greece, and Rome.

25th Century BCE

Egypt: Incense was depicted in temple carvings and found in ancient tombs. Kyphi was a commonly used incense. The preparation of kyphi was a mix of several unknown ingredients, which were often ground into a powder, mixed with honey, wine, or raisins, and then formed into small pellets or cakes for burning.

6th Century CE

Japan: Incense was brought to Japan by Korean Buddhist monks, who developed a unique stick type called "Koh." This blend includes Agarwood, Sandalwood, Spices, and herbs. The art of Kodo is a traditional Japanese practice where participants "listen" to the fragrance of different incenses.

Song Dynasty (960-1279 CE)

China: This is when incense evolved into various forms such as sticks and blocks. During this time, the first incense houses were built. Incense houses were dedicated spaces where various types of incense were sold.

Pre-Columbian Times (before 1492 CE)

Native American Cultures: In the Americas, Native American cultures used incense in the form of smudging, a ritual burning of sacred herbs like sage, cedar, and sweetgrass for purification and sending out prayers.

2nd Century BCE - 14th Century CE

Silk Road Era: The Silk Road was crucial in spreading incense from Asia to the Mediterranean and other parts of the world, including America. This route facilitated not only the exchange of goods like incense materials but also cultural and spiritual practices, intertwining traditions from across continents. Popular incenses traded included frankincense and myrrh.

15th - 18th Centuries

European Colonization: European explorers and colonizers encountered various forms of incense use in the Americas and Asia, leading to the introduction of new materials and practices in Europe. Frankincense, myrrh, and sandalwood became popular in European religious practices.

19th - 20th Centuries

Industrialization and Global Trade: The Industrial Revolution and the expansion of global trade networks brought mass production techniques to incense manufacturing. Incense became widely available and incorporated into various cultural and religious practices worldwide. Popular types included nag champa from India and joss sticks from China.