For centuries, people have burned incense sticks to cleanse their space and promote relaxation. But did you know that there are some surprising health benefits to burning incense? From reducing stress to boosting your immune system, here are eight reasons why you should start burning some incense.
1. Reduces Stress and Anxiety
If you are attempting to manage stress levels, there are a few different approaches that you can take. Some people prefer to exercise, while others find that relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation work better for them.
However, there is one method that is often overlooked but that can be extremely effective: aromatherapy. Studies have shown that the scent of lavender has a calming effect on the nervous system. If you’re feeling anxious or overwhelmed by life, try lighting up some lavender incense and taking a few deep breaths.
2. Boosts Your Immune System
One study found that burning incense can help increase the production of immune-boosting white blood cells. Increasing the production of these cells fights off infection and illness in the body.
3. Kills Harmful Bacteria
Recent studies have shown that incense smoke may also have disinfecting properties. In one study, incense smoke was found to be effective in killing a variety of harmful bacteria, including E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus.
Additionally, the smoke was found to reduce the level of several types of harmful chemicals in the air. As a result, incense smoke may be an effective natural way to disinfect your home or office space.
4. Alleviates Cold and Flu Symptoms
If you’re feeling congested and miserable, you may be tempted to reach for a box of tissues and a bottle of cough syrup. However, there’s another way to clear your nasal passages and ease your cold symptoms: breathing in the fumes of certain types of incense sticks from reputable suppliers like Flore Incense.
Eucalyptus and peppermint are two of the most effective options, as their strong fragrances can help to break up mucus and open clogged sinuses. In addition, the menthol in these herbs can help to soothe a sore throat and alleviate coughing.
5. Improves Digestion
For centuries, chamomile incense has been used for its calming effect on the mind and body. In recent years, studies have shown that this ancient remedy can also be helpful in easing digestive discomfort.
When diffused into the air, the soothing scent of chamomile helps to relax the stomach muscles, making it easier for gas and bloating to pass.
6. Fights Fatigue
Anyone who has ever stepped into a room perfumed with the scent of citrus knows that the aroma can be invigorating. It turns out that there may be more to this than just a pleasant-smelling fragrance. In fact, the aromatic ingredients in citrus incense have been shown to fight fatigue and increase energy levels.
Researchers believe that the scent of citrus helps to stimulate the body’s production of adrenaline, which gives you an instant boost of energy. Citrus incense is also thought to improve blood circulation and oxygenation, both of which can help to reduce fatigue.
7. Enhances Concentration
Are you finding it hard to focus? You’re not alone. With the constant barrage of distractions, it can be difficult to stay on task. But there may be a simple solution: try burning some frankincense or sandalwood incense. The scents have been shown to enhance concentration and mental clarity.
In one study, participants who were exposed to the scent of frankincense performed better on tests of attention and memory than those who were not. Similarly, another study found that the scent of sandalwood improved participants’ scores on measures of working memory and mental arithmetic.
8. Improves Sleep Quality
Quality sleep is essential for mental and physical health, but many people find it difficult to get the recommended seven to eight hours per night. If you’re struggling to catch some Zs, one simple solution is to burn some lavender or jasmine incense before bedtime.
Both fragrances have calming properties that can help reduce stress and promote relaxation. In addition, the scent of lavender has been shown to improve sleep quality, while jasmine has been shown to reduce the time it takes to fall asleep.
