Almost all religions burn incense during prayers or other ceremonial occasions. So let’s understand the purpose and the true function of burning incense. It is often believed that incense smoke purifies the energy of the space around us.

This is not entirely correct. Nothing else than our own spiritual force or the usage of a consecrated item could cleanse or consecrate a space. All of the rituals and techniques we employ during prayers are intended to activate our own energy centers and boost our own spiritual energies, rather than to offer to the deities or spirits. And with our enhanced positive spiritual energy, we may purify a space with our positive energy and also experience beyond the physical world.

For example, are used to activate and increase spiritual energy via our vision; mantras through our hearing; mudras or the pressing of certain meridian points through our touch; and incense through our sense of smell. Certain bassy and deep sounds or music can direct our energy downward to our sexual or sacral centers, while higher pitch sounds direct our energy upward to our crown chakra.

In ancient times, and notably in India where most people were meditative in those times, they discovered that certain smells could direct our energy upwards and are spiritual—particularly the scent of incense could move our energy upward. Hence, the use of incense has been significant in prayers. The same goes for the offerings of certain flowers, like jasmine, which are used to raise our spiritual energy through our sense of smell to bring our consciousness to align with the higher spiritual realms.

Which type of  incense sticks should we use?

Incense sticks are made from herbs and plants.  When you observe a dhoopa or incense stick, it may give off a mild scent on its own. However, when it comes in contact with fire, its aroma is manifested multifold.

This symbolizes that divine qualities in our lives should also manifest and bloom with the spark of inner awakening.

As incense sticks burn, they produce smoke—but this is no ordinary smoke.
It does not create unpleasantness or suffocation. Rather, it is holy smoke that purifies the space by removing bad odors and creating a soothing effect on the mind and brain.

There is another mantra that mentions the ten types of fragrances emitted from the incense stick. These correspond to our ten sense organs.
This symbolizes the desire that goodness should manifest through all our senses—helping us experience divinity through them.

Aroma also represents attraction.
When we interact with others, they should sense this inner fragrance—our goodness. People should feel drawn to us, not repelled. That is the true inner scent.

A Precaution While Offering Incense

In scriptures and traditional puja books, the word used is dhoopa, not agarbatti.
While incense sticks are commonly called agarbatti, that is neither the true translation nor the original Vedic product.

In Vedic tradition, dhoopa or dhoopapati is made from the essence of flora—purely organic.

Which type of  incense sticks should be avoided?

Most commercially available incense sticks use a bamboo stick inside.
Bamboo is traditionally burned only during cremation. When burned, it releases lead oxide, which is toxic.

Therefore, we should avoid incense sticks that contain bamboo.
Instead, we should use organic dhoopa—made from plants, cow dung, or other natural products.This is the type of incense that should be used in our temples, puja ceremonies, ashrams, and homes to receive the true spiritual and health benefits of incense burning.

The Use of Incense Sticks in the United States

Across the United States, people from different backgrounds use incense sticks for a variety of reasons. Some light them during yoga or meditation to create a calming atmosphere. Others use them as part of religious ceremonies, cultural events, or spiritual practices.

That said, most incense products sold in the U.S. are synthetic. These often contain chemical binders and are made using bamboo sticks, which don’t meet the standards of purity followed in traditional Vedic practices.

As more people become aware of the connection between wellness and natural living, there’s a noticeable shift. Individuals and spiritual communities are increasingly turning to organic, natural incense. Vedic-style dhoopa—made from ingredients like plant resins, herbs, and even cow dung—is one such option.

Choosing these traditional, non-toxic varieties supports a more authentic experience. It’s also a healthier choice, both physically and spiritually.