Review Article | Published: 31 May 2024

Agarwood as incense- a review: Part II- Therapeutic uses and health effects

Rathinam Saviour Caesar Jayaraj, Shagufta  Ahmed and Bishakha Hazarika

Journal of Non-Timber Forest Products | Volume: 31 | Issue: 1 | Page No. 9-17 | 2024
DOI: https://doi.org/10.54207/bsmps2000-2024-R6X6U5 | Cite this article

Abstract

Agarwood is a resinous heartwood of various species of Thymelaeaceae and, one of its common use is incense, wherein the resin-loaded chips and compressed dust are burnt over heated charcoal or glowing embers to release the smoke. The effect of this smoke on human health is discussed in the review. While the smoke has been found to benefit neurological issues, it has been found detrimental to the pulmonary and cardiovascular system, besides being carcinogenic. There is a need for study to mitigate the ill effects while harnessing the therapeutic benefits of agarwood incense.

Keywords

Agarbatti, Bakhoor, Cancer, Cardiovascular health, Particulate matter (PM), Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH), Respiratory disorders, Volatile organic carbon (VOC)

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How to cite

Jayaraj, R.S.C., Ahmed, S. and Hazarika, B., 2024. Agarwood as incense- a review: Part II- Therapeutic uses and health effects. Journal of Non-Timber Forest Products, 31(1), pp.9-17. https://doi.org/10.54207/bsmps2000-2024-R6X6U5

Publication History

Manuscript Received on 13 May 2024

Manuscript Revised on 27 May 2024

Manuscript Accepted on 29 May 2024

Manuscript Published on 31 May 2024

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