What is Bakhoor?

Bakhoor is a traditional Arabic incense that is widely used in many Middle Eastern, Asian, and African countries. Wood chips or bricks are soaked in fragrant oils or mixed with other aromatic substances. Bakhoor is burned to release a pleasant and long-lasting fragrance. It is often used to perfume homes, clothing, and hair. But there is another use that is kept quiet. It is a traditional aphrodisiac used by wives to set the mood for their husbands. 

To use bakhoor, the wood chips or bricks are ignited using a charcoal or electric incense burner. The smoke produced carries the fragrance throughout the space, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The practice of using bakhoor has deep cultural roots and is often associated with hospitality and special occasions. Bakhoor has various names depending on the region.  It is known as thiouraye in Senegal and Turaren Wuta in Chad. Both are known for having some of the best bakhoor/incense in the world. 

Different regions may have their variations of bakhoor, featuring unique blends of scents and ingredients. The choice of bakhoor can be a personal preference, and it is sometimes selected based on the occasion or the desired ambiance.

Bakhoor is largely used as an aphrodisiac in Arab, Asian, and African countries. Women are usually the curators of bakhoor. Some women blend different bakhoors or scents to create their own individual scent. It is not only used to beautify the home, but to also generate intimacy between her and her husband. Healthy relationships require mental and physical intimacy, and the smell of the bakhoor helps the husband think of his wife long after she is gone. Similar to having a signature scent, having a house that smells great is a classy and timeless manifestation of womanhood. 

Certain aromas have been traditionally associated with romance and sensuality. Here are some scents that are commonly believed to have aphrodisiac qualities:

1. Sandalwood: Sandalwood has a warm and woody fragrance. It is often used in bakhoor and perfumes and is associated with relaxation and a sense of well-being.
2. Vanilla: Vanilla is often considered warm and comforting. Its sweet and inviting fragrance is thought to have soothing and calming effects, which some people find conducive to romance.
3. Ylang-Ylang: Ylang-ylang is a tropical flower known for its sweet and floral fragrance. It is commonly used in perfumes and is believed by some to have relaxing and mood-enhancing properties.
4. Jasmine: Jasmine has a sweet and exotic floral scent. It is often associated with romance and is believed to have a calming effect, potentially reducing stress and anxiety.
5. Rose: The classic scent of roses is often linked with love and romance. The aroma of rose is considered sensual and is commonly used in perfumes and aromatherapy.
6. Patchouli: Patchouli has a rich, earthy, and musky scent. It has been used in various cultures for its purported ability to enhance sensuality and create a warm atmosphere.
7. Ginger: Some people find the spicy and warm scent of ginger to be invigorating and stimulating, potentially contributing to a sense of arousal.

Making bakhoor last longer involves a combination of proper storage, controlled burning, and efficient use. Here are some tips to help extend the longevity of bakhoor:

1. Storage:
   • Keep bakhoor in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Exposure to heat and light can degrade the quality of the fragrance.
   • Seal bakhoor in an airtight container when not in use. This helps preserve its aromatic properties and prevents it from absorbing unwanted odors.
2. Use Quality Bakhoor:
   • Invest in high-quality bakhoor that contains a good concentration of aromatic oils. Quality bakhoor tends to release fragrance more efficiently and can last longer.
3. Use in Moderation:
   • Avoid overloading the burner with bakhoor. Using a moderate amount ensures that it burns evenly and releases fragrance consistently without overwhelming the space.
4. Control the Burn:
   • If using a charcoal disc, ensure that it is fully lit before placing bakhoor on it. This allows for a more controlled and even burn.
   • Consider breaking large pieces of bakhoor into smaller chunks. This can help regulate the release of fragrance and prolong the overall burning time.
5. Use a Suitable Burner:
   • Choose a bakhoor burner that is designed to optimize the burning process. Some burners come with lids or vents that allow you to control the airflow and intensity of the fragrance.
6. Ventilation:
   • Ensure proper ventilation in the space where you're burning bakhoor. Good airflow can help distribute the fragrance more effectively.
7. Burning Time:
   • Burn bakhoor for shorter durations rather than leaving it continuously burning for extended periods. This can help conserve the bakhoor and make it last longer.
8. Extinguish Safely:
   • Extinguish the bakhoor and charcoal safely when you're done using it. This prevents unnecessary burning and ensures that you can save the remaining bakhoor for later use.
9. Mixing Fragrances:
   • Experiment with mixing different types of bakhoor to create unique and personalized scents. This can also be a way to make your bakhoor supply last longer.