Incense: plant matter that is burned for its scent or for the spiritual properties the plants possess. It can come in the forms of Sticks Spirals/Coils, Cones, Loose powders, or Raw plant materials

Benefits are that it helps sleep, meditation, reducing anxiety and stress, increasing calmness and focus, purifying space, and stimulation of creativity 

History: “Believed to have originated in Egypt in the time of the Old Kingdom, it was once used by priests for fumigating tombs. Incense has a long history of being used in conjunction with ceremonies, rituals, and spiritual and religious occasions.” - ‘ INCENSE - BENEFITS, USE, HISTORY & HEALTH’ by Sea Witch Botanicals

Dangers: “Ingredients listed as “fragrance” or “parfum” are completely unregulated by the government. These chemicals are unhealthy for humans as well as the environment, and breathing in smoke from them has further consequences for our respiratory systems. In the short-term, synthetic fragrances have been known to cause headaches and skin irritations, but they can have even more serious adverse effects on our health in the long-run.” - ‘ INCENSE - BENEFITS, USE, HISTORY & HEALTH’ by Sea Witch Botanicals

DIY Incense 

Crush dried herbs (specific to your intentions for the incense) into powder, mixing it with Makko powder or Sandalwood

Add distilled water and mix, then form into cones

Dry for at least 12 hours on wax paper, turning onto its side halfway through to ensure the bottom dries properly and thoroughly

Fill a heat resistant bowl/container with sand or salt, then placing the cone on top. 

Light the tip of the cone, then blow out the flame. It should burn and smoke for about an hour.

https://snapguide.com/guides/make-incense/

https://www.pinterest.com/atkorb/homemade-incense/

https://merrymeet.tumblr.com/post/63144375109 

https://seawitchbotanicals.com/pages/incense-use-history-health