In this blog we will find out how burning (Hrmal and Loban) incense is so effective and beneficial. But before diving into the topic lets just have a brief historical backgrond about what incense is and how long it has been used. Incense is a aromatic material that releases fragnant smoke when burned Burning incense, such as harmal and luban (frankincense), carries a rich cultural and spiritual significance that spans centuries and continents. Harmal, derived from the seeds of Peganum harmala plant, has been traditionally used in various rituals for its believed protective and purifying properties. Its distinct earthy and slightly floral aroma is thought to ward off negative energies and create an atmosphere conducive to meditation and self-reflection. On the other hand, luban, or frankincense, obtained from the resin of Boswellia trees, boasts a warm and resinous scent that has been cherished across cultures for its profound spiritual associations. Ancient civilizations considered luban as a symbol of divinity, using its fragrant smoke to communicate with deities and cleanse sacred spaces.
Both harmal and luban continue to be embraced today for their aromatic allure and metaphysical significance. Whether used in religious ceremonies, holistic healing practices, or personal contemplation, the act of burning these incenses elevates the ambiance, fostering a sense of tranquility and connection to age-old traditions. Inhaling their fragrant plumes is like embarking on a sensory journey that links the present with the past, inviting contemplation and a momentary escape from the fast-paced modern world.
Hermal, & Loban have been used for centuries because of their magical properties .These incenses contains properties that lower anxiety and stress levels. Incense is also an incredibly useful tool for focus and meditation and can instantly pull the mind into a calmer state.
Now a days viral and bacterial infections specially those caused by multi-drug resistant viruses and bacteria are putting lives at risk.Covid-19 pandemic has proven to be the greatest challenge for the entire world.
In this current scenario all of us are practicing all the possible ways to protect ourselves and our loved ones from this deadly virus, we must also consider all possible ways and methods that by any means can be helpful to us. The importance of herbal medication has been known from centuries and has been used by our ancestors that not just benefit them at that times but also has been scientifically proven later on by modern researches. In many countries different kinds of medical plants and herbs are not just used to keep ants , flies mice and flee away from homes and offices but also the smoke of these herbs are used as an air purifier.
As we all know that bacteria and viruses can travel through the air, causing and worsening diseases .They get into the air easily ,speaking specifically about the COVID-19 spread we must keep in mind that washing our hands wont just be enough as long as we don’t cleanse the environment we live in. Many researches have proven the antibacterial, antiviral and antimicrobial properties of Harmal and Loban .
These magical herbal incenses are not just cheap but are also easily available every where.
Lets just dive right in to have a brief overview of their majestic properties .
Harmal:
Paganum , Suryin Rue or commonly known as “Harmal” is native from the eastern Iranian region west to Pakistan, and grows spontaneously in semiarid and pre-desertic regions of southeast Morocco and distributed in North Africa and the Middle East. It is one of the most famous medicinal plants used in traditional medicine of Iran.
Therapeutic uses Of Harmal:
The most pharmacological active compounds of Syrian rue seed are several alkaloids called beta-carbolines which are found in the seeds and roots (Mirzaie et al., 2007).
These constituents also seem to have effects that are similar to certain medicines used to treat Alzheimer disease.
Many researches shows that Harmal has various numerous beneficial medical properties few of which have been listed below
- Analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties (Muhi-eldeen et al., 2008).
- anti-microbial, due to dichloromethane
- anti-tumor effect as harmala alkaloid inhibited the growth of four tumor cell. (Goel et al., 2009),
- insecticidal effect (Goel et al., 2009),
- caving malaria (Goel et al., 2009),
- anti-spasmodic (Asghari and Lockwood, 2002),
- anti-histaminic (Asghari and Lockwood, 2002),
- wound healing (Derakhshanfar et al., 2009),
- anti-oxidant activity (Astulla et al., 2008),
- leukemic healing (Zaker et al., 2007),
- hypoglycemic effect (Singh et al., 2008),
- immuno-modulator properties (Astulla et al. 2008),
- antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral effects (Shonoudam et al., 2008).
Other Benefits of the Harmal Herb
Effective in providing relief in
- Fever
- chronic malaria.
- Asthma
- Eliminates tapeworm infestations. The alkaloid hermaline , present in the herb shows anthelmintic properties.
- Helps in reducing sleeplessness and Insomnia, with its narcotic properties.
- Highly effective in the cure of laryngitis or the inflammation of the larynx thus reducing cough.
- A paste of the roots of the plant with mustard oil helps to kill head lice when applied externally.
Burning Harmal / as a Medicine
Harmala traditionally has been used in Iran as an antiseptic and disinfectant agent by burning its seeds (Fathiazada et al., 2006; Arshad et al., 2008).
Burning Harmal seeds is also common in Persian cultures for warding off the evil eye, as in Persian weddings.
LUBAN
Luban, also called” gum Arabic” or “frankincense” meaning “pure incense and Benzoin in English is a natural gum that consists of a resinous dried sap that is sourced from Boswellia sacra, a native tree found in Africa and Yemen. …It has been used for at least 4000 years and is a prized incense resin.
This natural gum has previously and currently being used in medicine, baking ingredients, and woodwork.. It has heavenly scent and medicinal and spiritual properties.
Therapeutic uses Of Loban:
Luban has been reported to have properties such as
- anti-inflammatory,
- sedative,
- antibacterial,
- anti-cancer
- Anti-depressant
- antiseptic
- Anti-cough
Both inhalation and topical application work well and is recommended for cough. Diffusion is particularly good for a nighttime cough.
Luban is used for pain and swelling in people with various diseases
- spiritual benefits
When inhaled through the nose or diffused into the air, Luban may promote a sense of peace, relaxation, grounding and connectedness. It’s the perfect companion for getting into a meditative, spiritual state.
Burning Loban/Benzoin as a Medicine :
Science proves burning of ‘Lohban’ is 10 times better than eating Anti-depressants!.
Incense of Frankincense, directly affects a protein in the brain known as TRPV3.
This protein is responsible for our ability to feel warm sensations on our skin.
Ayurvedic and homeopathic medicines are slow to act, but they do not cause any form of side effects. For example, burning of Loban/Benzoin or Frankincense, does wonders in the long run.
When one comes in contact with the ‘loban’ incense or Benzoin, the individual feels relaxed and stress-free, with a clear mind. This is the power of burning Loban/Benzoin.
How to burn Hrmal & Loban :
you can buy Luban/Frankincense resin from amazon https://www.amazon.com/stores/Govinda/page/C22FB474-967C-4BD9-A684-0AD0A0583816?ref_=ast_bln
Take out few moments from your daily busy lives.
Heat up a piece of coal and gently nestle it in the center of a fire resistant pot.
Rest a fragment of the white Luban/Frankincense resin on the glowing red piece of coal and watch it sizzle and melt away, instantly releasing a subtle rich aroma.
Take a deep breath and dust a pinch of Harmal and watch in amazement as the tiny black seeds crackle up and dance themselves to a delicate stillness after a few minutes.
The musky smoke of Harmal and the rich, sweet scent of Loban are the ultimate pair that purify, uplift and stimulate a serenity within and cleansing the environment .
What is the purpose of burning Loban & Harmal in pandemic COVID-19 ?
According to religious texts, burning Harmal & Loban are one of the finest energy purifier of atmosphere & prevent negative energy
If we daily burn Loban / Harmal and inhales the fragrance, it helps to
- Relieves throat problems such as cough.
- Relieves depression and anxiety
- Enhance the memory power.
- House cleansing /air purifier.
CONCLUSION :
Keeping in view all the benefits specially antimicrobial antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral effects of burning both Harmal and Luban can prove to be beneficial in current scenario of wide spread pandemic of COVID-19 virus by helping in cleansing the indoor environment. But before using this smoke therapy make sure the rooms and the surroundings are well ventilated .
where to buy
(FAQs)
Here are five frequently asked questions (FAQs) about burning incense, specifically harmal and luban:
Q1 : What is harmal incense, and what are its benefits?
Ans: Harmal incense is derived from the seeds of the Peganum harmala plant. It is known for its protective and purifying properties, making it a popular choice for spiritual rituals and meditation practices. The aroma is characterized by earthy and floral notes, believed to cleanse negative energies and enhance the atmosphere for self-reflection.
Q2 : How is luban (frankincense) incense used in cultural practices?
Ans : Luban, or frankincense, incense has been used in various cultures for its spiritual significance. Its resinous scent is thought to facilitate communication with higher powers and is often burned during religious ceremonies. It’s also used to cleanse and purify sacred spaces, symbolizing a connection between the material and spiritual realms.
Q3: Can burning harmal and luban incense promote relaxation and mindfulness?
Ans: Yes, burning harmal and luban incense can create an ambiance that promotes relaxation and mindfulness. The aromas are believed to have calming effects on the mind, making them suitable for meditation and contemplative practices. Inhaling the fragrant smoke can help individuals feel more centered and present.
Q4: Are there any safety considerations when burning these types of incense?
Ans: Yes, safety is important when burning any type of incense. It’s recommended to use a proper incense holder or burner to prevent accidents. Ensure proper ventilation in the room and never leave burning incense unattended. Additionally, if you have respiratory issues or sensitivities, it’s wise to be cautious when inhaling the smoke.
Q5: Where can I find high-quality harmal and luban incense?
Ans: High-quality harmal and luban incense can be found in specialty shops that sell incense and spiritual products. You can also explore online retailers that specialize in natural and traditional products. When purchasing, look for reputable sources that provide information about the sourcing and production of the incense to ensure its authenticity and purity.
