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Incense guide

What Is Loban?

A plain-language answer from the makers of Aadhya incense and dhoop.

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Quick answer

What Is Loban?

Loban is a natural resin, usually benzoin from the Styrax tree, burned on hot charcoal or in cups to release a thick, sweet, balsamic smoke. In India it is used to purify homes in the evening, in dargahs, and in many Hindu and Muslim households.

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How loban is used

  • Burned on a coal in a loban dani (burner) at dusk.
  • Carried through the rooms to purify and fragrance the home.
  • Offered at dargahs and Sufi shrines.
  • In South India, the same resin is called sambrani.

Loban vs agarbatti

Loban gives a short, intense burst of smoke and needs charcoal; an agarbatti or dhoop stick lights directly and burns gently for about an hour. For a resinous character without charcoal, try a bakhoor or oudh dhoop stick.

Frequently asked questions

Is loban the same as sambrani?

Largely yes: both usually refer to benzoin resin, called loban in the north and sambrani in the south.

Is loban smoke strong?

Yes, it is much denser than incense-stick smoke, so ventilate the room.

Is loban the same as frankincense?

No. Loban is usually benzoin; frankincense (olibanum) is a different resin, though the names are sometimes mixed up.