How to use Louban (Frankincense Resin)
Louban, known as frankincense resin, is a fragrant tree gum traditionally burned for aroma, calm, and focus. You can use it on charcoal, on an electric burner, chewed like gum, or infused in water for home fragrance.
Video tutorial
We are preparing a short, step by step video guide showing how to use it
What is Louban
Louban is the aromatic resin from Boswellia trees. After tapping the bark, small tears harden and are sorted by size, colour, and purity. Popular origins include Yemen and Ethiopia. The scent profile is citrusy, pine-like, and softly balsamic.
How to choose quality
- Look for whole, dry tears with minimal dust and no visible mould.
- Colour ranges from milky white to golden. Uniform pieces with a clean, lemon-pine aroma are ideal.
- Check origin, harvest season, and batch details. Reputable sellers list these clearly.
- Avoid damp, sticky, or heavily powdered resin.
Charcoal method
- Place a heatproof burner on a stable, non-flammable surface.
- Light a self-igniting charcoal disc and let it ash over for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Drop 1 to 2 small Louban tears, about 0.2 to 0.5 grams total, onto the charcoal.
- Ventilate the room. Keep windows slightly open.
- Add more resin only when the smoke thins. One disc is usually enough for a medium room.
Electric burner method
- Set the burner between 120°C and 180°C for a slow, fragrant release.
- Add a small piece of resin to the hot plate or mica sheet.
- Adjust temperature for lighter or stronger aroma. Lower heat gives cleaner notes and less smoke.
- Wipe the plate after cooling to prevent residue build-up.
Chewing method
- Choose a pea-sized soft tear. Soften it briefly in warm water if needed.
- Chew slowly until it becomes gum-like, then discard after flavour fades.
- Avoid if you have dental work that loosens easily.
Infusion method
This is a light aromatic water for household use, not a medical drink.
- Rinse a few small tears to remove dust.
- Add to 250 to 300 ml warm water and leave covered for 6 to 12 hours.
- Strain. Use the scented water to freshen rooms or wipe surfaces. Do not heat to boiling.
Using Louban smoke alongside Ruqyah
Some households burn a small amount of Louban while reciting Qur’an. Keep smoke gentle, maintain airflow, and avoid crowding the burner. Focus on consistency and safety rather than heavy smoke.
Safety, ventilation, and fire caution
- Burn on non-flammable surfaces, away from curtains and children.
- Ventilate rooms. People with asthma or smoke sensitivity should avoid exposure.
- Never leave burning charcoal unattended. Dispose of ash in metal, after it is cold.
- Keep resin and burners away from pets. Birds are sensitive to fumes.
Storage and shelf life
- Store in an airtight jar in a cool, dark cupboard.
- Keep tears dry. If moisture appears, air them out on parchment for a few hours.
- Good resin keeps aroma for 12 to 24 months when sealed and dry.
Where to buy
Choose clean, traceable tears from trusted sources. See our selections:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Louban and how is frankincense resin used?
Louban is Boswellia tree resin. It is burned for fragrance, chewed in small pieces, or infused lightly in water for household scenting. Keep portions modest and well ventilated when burning.
Which grade of Louban is best for home burning?
Medium to large, clean tears from Yemen or Ethiopia work well. Look for uniform colour, minimal dust, and a fresh lemon-pine aroma. Avoid damp or chalky pieces.
How much Louban should you use per session?
Start with 1 to 2 small tears, about 0.2 to 0.5 grams total. Add only if the fragrance fades. Too much resin creates harsh smoke and residue.
Is charcoal or an electric burner better for Louban?
Charcoal gives stronger smoke and traditional scent. Electric burners offer cleaner notes at lower heat with less smoke. Choose based on room size and sensitivity.
Is chewing frankincense resin safe and how do you do it?
Use a small soft tear. Chew slowly until gum-like, then discard. Avoid if you have sensitive dental work. Do not swallow large pieces.
Can you make a frankincense water infusion at home?
Yes, a mild infusion for scenting. Soak rinsed tears in warm water for several hours, then strain. Use for room freshening. This is not a medical drink.
How do people use Louban smoke during Ruqyah?
Some burn a small amount with steady airflow while reciting Qur’an. Keep smoke light, never overpowering, and prioritise safety and calm routine.
Who should avoid Louban because of smoke or allergies?
Those with asthma, COPD, fragrance sensitivity, or smoke-triggered headaches should avoid burning resin. Children, pregnant women, and the elderly should stay away from heavy smoke.
Is Louban smoke safe around pets and fabrics?
Keep pets, especially birds and small mammals, away from smoke. Resin can scent fabrics and may leave residue. Burn far from curtains and upholstery.
How should you store Louban and how long does it last?
Seal in glass, keep dry, and store cool and dark. Aroma stays potent for 12 to 24 months. Refresh if the scent fades or tears become sticky.
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Burning resins produces smoke. Ventilate rooms and avoid exposure if you have respiratory conditions. Always follow fire safety guidance and keep burners away from children and pets.
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