To burn frankincense resin, the most common and effective method is to use a charcoal incense burner. First, light a charcoal disc until it glows and stops sparking, then place it in a heatproof burner or dish. Wait until the charcoal is mostly covered in gray ash and is no longer smoking heavily. Then, place a small piece or a pea-sized chunk of frankincense resin on top of the hot charcoal or just on the layer of ash above it. The heat will melt and burn the resin slowly, releasing its aromatic smoke. Here are some key points and steps for burning frankincense resin:
- Light the charcoal with tongs using a flame until it glows and sparks subside.
- Place the charcoal in a burner filled with a layer of ash or sand to protect from overheating.
- Wait for the charcoal to cool slightly until it is gray and glowing with minimal smoke.
- Carefully place a small piece of frankincense resin on the charcoal or on the ash layer just above it.
- The resin will melt and release smoke as it heats, giving off its fragrance.
- You can rotate the resin piece if the smoke stops or becomes less intense, to burn it evenly.
- Burn resin in a well-ventilated space due to the smoke.
- When finished, let the charcoal burn out and cool completely before disposing.
There are some variations such as placing resin directly on the charcoal for a quick intense burn, or beside the charcoal for lighter smoke. Using a layer of ash over the charcoal before adding resin can allow for a slower release of fragrance and less intense smoke. The process varies by preference but always involves charcoal heat to volatilize the resin's aromatic oils.