How to burn loose incense

Step 1: Prepare burner
A brass incense burner with a screen (as shown here) works best for this kind of incense. Place the screen in the concave position before use. Please follow the manufacturer's guidelines for the specific burner you are using. The charcoal will get VERY HOT. Never leave burning incense unattended!

Step 2: Prepare charcoal disc
Always use tongs when handling charcoal. You can use any brand of quick-light charcoal.

Step 3: Light charcoal
Using tongs, hold charcoal to an open flame. The charcoal will ignite quickly and begin to spark and heat up. Once you see sparks, place the charcoal on top of the incense burner screen, with the concave side facing up..

Step 4: Allow charcoal to heat up
The charcoal will take a few minutes to become fully heated. You will know it's ready when the outer perimeter turns an ashy grey. You're ready to add your incense!

Step 5: Add loose incense
Add a small spoonful of loose incense on top of the charcoal. If this is your first time using loose incense, prepare for it to smoke more than cone or stick incense. Resins will bubble and melt into the charcoal, whereas plant matter will burn and char.

Step 6: Add more incense
The charcoal will smoulder long enough for you to burn at least three small spoonfuls of incense. Simply scrape the charred botanical remains to the side and add more. The charcoal will eventually burn itself out. Please ensure that the charcoal is fully extinguished before ending your rituals.