You’ll light a charcoal disc to burn your frankincense.
You can use an incense burner if you prefer. Try pouring sand into the burner or bowl you use to help dissipate heat. [3] X Research source
Most of the time, the discs will catch on fire quickly.
Leave the charcoal to heat for about 7 minutes or so. It will turn light gray when it’s ready.
Some people like to pour salt in the center of the disc, which helps the resin burn slower. [7] X Research source If the coal is still hot after the frankincense burns up, you can add another piece to it. If you get too much smoke, you can take the resin off the charcoal and set it aside for a moment. Use a metal utensil to move it. [8] X Research source These discs only last about 45-60 minutes, so light another one if you want to keep burning your frankincense.
Pouring water over the charcoal can create a mess, so do it in the sink or outside. When moving the container, always use oven mitts to protect your hands from the heat.
You can turn the heat down to burn the frankincense more slowly. Don’t leave the burner unattended.
You don’t really want to use the pan for anything else but burning incense and frankincense. Pick a pan without nonstick coating, as you shouldn’t really heat those by themselves.
You can use a mortar and pestle to break up the resin more if you prefer. Use tongs or an oven mitt to take the lid off once it heats up, as it will be hot. You can place a foil cup in the burner to keep the main burner bowl from collecting gunk over time. [13] X Research source Frankincense has many health benefits. You can use it as a massage oil, facial oil, hair care oil, topical treatment for arthritis, and aromatherapy. [14] X Research source It can be used topically on inflamed muscles and joints and orally. [15] X Research source It improves gut health and digestion and eases digestive disorders such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. [16] X Research source
