Description
Incense is the most universally widespread tool for all things spiritual. It is used to enhance prayer and meditation, evoke deeper spiritual introspection, as a sacred offering, for spiritual and energetic cleansing and consecration, for blessing, to accompany body/mind/spirit practices such as yoga and qi gong, for spiritual protection and so much more. Thousands of years before its countless Biblical associations with the divine, incense use is seen across the histories of ancient civilizations such as the Maya, Aztec, and Egyptians, where daily rituals and offerings called for generous plumes of smoke from sacred blends of herbs and resins, used to appease gods, goddesses, and deities.
There are many reasons that incense is held in such high spiritual regard. To many cultures, the sense of smell is considered our sacred, or exalted sense, above all others. Therefore, aroma is the key that unlocks that sacredness. Many ancient cultures believe incense and plant smoke to also be the key to God’s, or the Creator’s, heart.
Course Objectives
By the end of this comprehensive course, participants will:
- Understand the history, culture, and chemistry of agarwood incense.
- Learn hands-on techniques for incense formulation and shaping.
- Master natural binding, drying, and scent enhancement methods.
- Develop custom blends using agarwood and other aromatic botanicals.
- Gain skills for small-scale production and branding of incense products.
COURSE MODULES
Day 1 – Foundations of Incense Artistry
Morning:
- Introduction to Agarwood: Origins, fragrance chemistry, and uses
- Cultural significance of incense in Asia and the Middle East
- Types of incense (stick, coil, cone, powder, and resin blends)
- Safety, tools, and workspace setup
Afternoon:
- Understanding raw materials: Agarwood powder, binders, resins, essential oils
- Demonstration: Sourcing and preparing incense-grade agarwood
- Hands-on Activity: Formulating your first incense blend
Day 2 – Craftsmanship & Scent Profiling
Morning:
- Balancing notes: Base (agarwood), middle (herbs/spices), and top (floral/citrus)
- Natural binding agents: Makko powder, Litsea glutinosa, and jigat bark
- Techniques: Kneading, rolling, coiling, and cone shaping
Afternoon:
- Controlled drying and curing process for consistent burn quality
- Troubleshooting common issues (cracking, poor scent throw, smoke control)
- Hands-on: Crafting and drying your incense forms
Day 3 – Branding, Packaging & Business Applications
Morning:
- Finishing, scent aging, and storage techniques
- Incense testing: Burn time, smoke, and aroma performance
- Fragrance enhancement with natural essential oils (sandalwood, cinnamon, rose, etc.)
Afternoon:
- Costing and scaling production for retail
- Packaging design, storytelling, and product differentiation
- Business models: Local crafts, export, and spa/wellness markets
- Certificate awarding and product showcase
Materials & Equipment Included
- Agarwood powder (5–10g premium grade)
- Natural binding materials (Makko powder, Litsea bark, etc.)
- Essential oils and fragrance enhancers
- Mixing tools, molds, and rolling mats
- Course manual (printed + digital)
- Certificate of Completion (endorsed by AGAP / Crown Agroforestry)
Fee Includes:
- Complimentary Agarwood Leaf Tea – Experience its calming aroma and wellness benefits.
- Certificate of Participation
- Decent Lunch Meal is included in the package.
- Complete incense-making kit (agarwood powder, makko powder, sticks, cones, resins).
- Step-by-step recipe guide & hands-on experience
Target Participants
- Agarwood farmers and processors exploring value-added product lines
- Entrepreneurs in aromatherapy, perfumery, or spiritual crafts
- Students and researchers in natural product chemistry or ethnobotany
- Hobbyists passionate about artisanal incense-making
