Bayberry Incense
A warm, resinous-smoky incense made from dried bayberry fruits or leaves. Lightly crush, place on a lit charcoal disc in a fireproof bowl, and enjoy a woodsy, cleansing aroma that’s traditionally used to freshen spaces and gently deter insects.
Equipment
- Fireproof bowl or censer (lined with sand or small pebbles)
- Charcoal disc or safe ember source
- Tongs or metal spoon
- Lighter or matches
- Small mortar & pestle (or the back of a spoon)
- Optional incense screen (for gentler heat)
Ingredients
- Dried bayberry fruits or leaves lightly crushed
Instructions
- Prepare the vessel: Line a fireproof bowl with a layer of sand or pebbles.
- Light charcoal: Using tongs, light a charcoal disc until it sparks and turns evenly gray on the surface. Place it in the bowl.
- Crush: Lightly crush the dried bayberries or leaves to release aroma.
- Burn: Sprinkle a small pinch onto the glowing charcoal. Add more in tiny amounts as needed.
- Ventilate: Let the aroma spread; waft gently and ventilate the room if desired. Discard ashes only after fully cooled.
Notes
- Scent profile: Resinous, woody, gently green; blends well with cedar, fir, sage, juniper, and a strip of dried orange peel.
- Gentle option: Use an incense screen over a tea light for softer heat and subtler scent.
- Less is more: A knife-tip amount scents a small room; add sparingly to avoid smoke heaviness.
- Safety
- Burn only in a stable, fireproof container; never leave unattended.
- Keep away from children, pets, drafts, and flammables.
- Use in a well-ventilated area—avoid if steam/smoke triggers asthma or headaches.
- Allow charcoal and ash to cool completely before disposal.