Benefits
Relaxation
Throughout history, Black Storax has been burned to promote feelings of relaxation, calmness and to enhance the meditative state.
It is also recommended as an aid to a deep and invigorating sleep – helping with insomnia and lack of sleep caused by stress and anxiety.
In many ancient traditions, Black Storax is used to drive away negativity and as an aphrodisiac.
Respiratory Health
On a physical level, Black Storax has an antibacterial effect and can be used to suppress persistent coughing may help to relieve symptoms of the common cold.
Folklore and history
Black Storax was revered by the Egyptians and Phoenicians, who regarded it as a rare a precious incense. It was known in ancient Egypt as “Miniaki” which translates as “festive fragrance”.
Used in many ancient recipes, it is mentioned in the “Abraxas Magical Papyri” - a document that can be traced back to Egypt’s Graeco-Roman period listing a number of magical spells, rituals, formulae and religious hymns.
Traditional use
Black Storax is obtained from the Liquidambar Orientalis tree. When struck, the tree’s trunk produces a sap which is mixed with finely chopped bark, before being left to macerate for several months. The resulting compound, Black Storax resin, has a warm and balsamic, sweet, flowery, intense and slightly grassy fragrance and will add a sweet note to any incense blend.
Typical use
Burn Black Storax on a lit charcoal, this incense is a heady, floral, warming aroma and blends very well with myrhh, copal, frankinsence, and rose amongst others.
Precautions
None known.
