Bakhoor is an incense made of wooden chips which is soaked in fragrant oils. People have been using bakhoor for more than hundreds of years in the Middle East and South Asia region.
People burn bakhoor for its pleasant smell, relaxation and for spiritual reasons. When bakhoor is burned in the right way, it fills your space with a rich and calming fragrance.
So, to enjoy bakhoor fully, you need to burn it correctly. In this guide, we will share some tips to help you get the best of bakhoor.
What is Bakhoor?
Before learning how to burn bakhoor properly, it is important to know what it is. Bakhoor is usually made from agarwood (oud) chips mixed with essential oils, resins and other natural ingredients. Its smell changes based on the quality of these ingredients and how it is burned.
Different types of bakhoor include:
· Traditional Bakhoor – Handmade, often using secret family recipes.
· Compressed Bakhoor Tablets – Easy to use and burn for a longer time.
· Resin-Based Bakhoor – A mix of resins and wood that gives a stronger smell.
Each type needs a slightly different way of burning to bring out its best scent.
Choosing the Right Burner
The type of burner, what you choose generally affects how the bakhoor smells. Here are the two most common options:
1. Charcoal Burner (Mabkhara)
This is the traditional and most popular way to burn bakhoor. It uses high heat to release a strong and long-lasting scent.
- Best for deep and rich fragrances.
- Needs natural charcoal to produce heat.
- Great for special occasions and strong aroma.
2. Electric Burner
This is a modern and easy to use option. It is safer and does not need charcoal.
- Best for a slow and controlled scent release.
- No need for charcoal.
- Good for homes and closed spaces.
For the most authentic experience, a traditional charcoal burner is best. However, an electric burner is easier to use.
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Step-by-Step Guide to Burning Bakhoor
Follow these simple steps to enjoy the best fragrance from your bakhoor.
1. Preparing the Charcoal (For Traditional Burners)
- Use good-quality natural charcoal to avoid unwanted smells from chemicals.
- Hold the charcoal piece with tongs and light it using a stove or lighter.
- Wait 2-3 minutes until it turns red hot and a thin layer of white ash forms.
- Place the hot charcoal carefully in the mabkhara (burner).
2. Adding the Bakhoor
- Once the charcoal is ready, place a small piece of bakhoor on top.
- Do not add too much bakhoor, a little is enough for a strong scent.
- Let the bakhoor slowly release its fragrance as it burns.
3. Adjusting the Experience
- If the scent is too strong, place a heat-resistant foil over the charcoal to reduce heat.
- If the bakhoor burns too fast, add small pieces one at a time instead of all at once.
4. Using an Electric Burner
- Set the burner to medium heat to prevent burning the bakhoor too quickly.
- Place a piece of bakhoor on the heating plate or in the tray.
- Wait for the heat to slowly release the scent.
Pro Tips for Maximizing the Aroma
Follow these simple tips to get the best bakhoor experience.
· Use Proper Ventilation – Bakhoor smells great, but too much smoke can be overwhelming. Keep a window slightly open for balance.
· Layering Scents – Try different bakhoor types together for a unique fragrance. Oud-based bakhoor blends well with floral or spicy scents.
· Burn at the Right Time – Use bakhoor in the evening or before guests arrive to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
· Store It Well – Keep bakhoor in an airtight container, away from moisture, to keep its fragrance strong.
· Infuse in Clothes & Hair – Let the bakhoor smoke lightly touch your clothes or hair for a lasting scent.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
The common mistakes to avoid while using bakhoor are:
· Overheating the Bakhoor – Too much heat burns the essential oils and creates an unpleasant burnt smell.
· Using Low-Quality Charcoal – Poor quality charcoal releases unwanted chemical odors, which ruins the fragrance.
· Burning Too Much Bakhoor at Once – Burning a lot of bakhoor at once, can cause it to burn too fast. So, use in a smaller amount which lasts longer and provide a better experience.
· Placing Bakhoor Too Soon – Always wait for the charcoal to become red-hot before adding the bakhoor.
· Not Ventilating the Room – Burning the bakhoor without proper airflow can make the smoke too strong and uncomfortable.
Final Thoughts
Burning bakhoor is an art that requires patience and the right approach. Whether you use a traditional mabkhara or a modern electric burner, the secret is in controlling the heat, using good-quality bakhoor and trying different scents. By following these simple tips, you can improve your experience and make any space smell amazing.
Enjoy the enchanting world of bakhoor like a pro!