For centuries, Bakhoor/Incense smoke has been used in the Arabian households. Despite all the trends that have appeared and vanished, bakhoor continues to prove its timelessness. Knowing the why reveals much more about culture, hospitality and identity than most people ever would expect.

Mostly Beginners face this type of problem. The word is everywhere: in shops, at gatherings, when people are talking about home traditions, but knowing the word and knowing what bakhoor really is another matter. So let's break it down properly in this blog:

Understanding the Tradition of Bakhoor

Simply, a scented wood chip or paste is heated in a room, typically over charcoal, to emit smoke and essence. It's not a candle. It's not a spray. This is something that you use to inhale and enjoy, and you smoke the bakhoor and it smells.

• The Origins of Bakhoor in Arabian Culture
  
  

This practice is not a new one, from last year or even the last century. Bakhoor scent is as old as the gulf and Arabian region from which it comes and has been used for generations in Oman. It was employed in houses, in the mosques, in assemblies, and at receptions at the door. 

• How Bakhoor Became a Household Essential
  
  

So how did it still last for that long? Due to its symbolic meaning. The small thing of burning bakhoor before the guests is worth a lot of words. It tells a visitor that the house is ready for them, and that's why it became almost a daily occurrence in many Arabic households, instead of a treat for once.

What Is Bakhoor Made Of?

Bakhoor is created by a combination of several very simple ingredients: wood, oil, and at times, resin; the combination of these ingredients creates a smell that is different for each batch. After you have the fundamentals down, it will not be that confusing to select a good one.

• Natural Wood Chips and Oud
  
  

Most bakhoor is based on wood, usually soaked in fragrant oils and oud. The scent is absorbed by the chip over time, more often than not, for a period of a few weeks, until it can be burned. That is the reason why a good bakhoor will smell so wonderful. The wood itself will impart its fragrance to the bakhoor.

• Fragrant Oils and Resins
  
  

Perfume oils and natural ingredients such as resin are typically added to the wood on top. These add depth to bakhoor, helping the aroma to last longer after it is lit. Some are more oriental, some are more pure agarwood and it depends on the types of oils used. The different types of bakhoor and their fragrances.

Types of Bakhoor and Their Scent Profiles

Bakhoor has different fragrances and this is important to know before purchasing. There are also heavier types, that are produced from a blend of agarwood and deep oud, with a smoky, grounded fragrance. There are some that are lighter with floral oils for a more natural fragrance. Then there's muattar, the bakhoor that comes in paste, which burns slower and emits scent more slowly. The right one really depends on the mood you are aiming to achieve. For everyday use, it is better to use the lighter incense blends, and the heavier, more luxury incense blends are better for special occasions.

Why Bakhoor is Special in Arabian Homes

The big thing. Bakhoor isn't the smell of it. It is associated with hospitality, identity and occasion. Prior to the arrival of guests, burning it is a ritual practice in many households, and one that leaves a lasting impression on the space when the front door is opened.

It's also a reason for its easy compatibility with personal perfume. Many people who burn bakhoor regularly also expand their fragrance library at the same time as they do with the bakhoor because it is rooted in the same culture. 

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How to Use Bakhoor at Home (Step-by-Step Guide)

Firstly, light a piece of charcoal until it is covered in ash-grey on the surface. Then, gently drop it into your incense holder, preferably a flat plate that will catch any shavings that fall. Wait for a minute to allow the heat to even out, then. Then, put a small piece of bakhoor wood on the top of the charcoal, don't put too much at a time! The smoke should then begin to rise in seconds. Afterwards, slowly move the burner throughout the room to disperse the fragrance throughout to get an all rounded effect. Once the smoke disappears (the last part) you can add another small piece if you'd like the smoke to keep going. Lastly, never burn the burner on a flammable surface and make sure to keep the burner on a heat-safe surface at all times. 

Conclusion

Bakhoor is a tradition that involves wood, oil, smoke and more. It's not about the looks, it's about the feel and the way it welcomes guests in. Its mystery is removed once you grasp its ingredients and how to light it correctly, and you can enjoy this tradition at home, whether you are in Oman or elsewhere, where it is cherished.

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FAQs

Is bakhoor the same as incense?

Bakhoor is an incense but it is used for wood chips or incense paste that is burned over charcoal, not incense sticks or cones.

How long does bakhoor smoke last in a room?

This will vary depending on the quantity, room size, etc., but the fragrance can be detected long after the smoke has dissipated.

Is bakhoor safe to use indoors daily?

Bakhoor can be used indoors, though it helps to keep the room ventilated and avoid using it in very small, closed spaces for long periods.

What is the best bakhoor for beginners?

A lighter one is generally a good place to start, as it will be a less intense introduction to a heavier more oud-based variant. 

Can bakhoor be used without charcoal?

Yes. There are some electric burners that heat the bakhoor without any charcoal. So, this is a more convenient way to use bakhoor.