Dhoop Sticks vs. Incense Sticks: What’s the Difference and Which One Is Right for You?
If you have ever walked into a serene home temple, a yoga room, or a quiet reading nook in an Indian home, you may have sensed the soothing scent of smoldering incense. And yet when you visit a store to buy incense, you will find yourself face to face with two dominant forms—dhoop sticks and incense sticks (agarbatti). On the surface, they appear similar. Both do serve the purpose of calming scent and symbolic significance. But in actuality, the two incense types are different from each other.
In this blog, we'll compare the main differences between dhoop sticks and incense sticks, and assist you in choosing which one is best suited for your space, life, and preferences.
What Are Dhoop Sticks?
Dhoop sticks are a solid, wood-free type of incense composed wholly of perfumed powders, herbs, resins, and natural binders. They are generally thicker and more dense than agarbatti and can create a deep, earthy scent that lasts for hours.
Attributes of Dhoop Sticks:
Wood-free: No wooden center results in more incense material per stick. Purer fragrance: More concentrated and richer fragrances from compact ingredients. Burn duration: Generally longer than regular incense sticks. Usage: Widely used in temples, religious ceremonies, and meditation. Composition: Composed of natural materials such as guggul, sandalwood, camphor, and frankincense.
What Are Incense Sticks (Agarbatti)?
Incense sticks, popularly referred to as agarbatti in India, are narrow sticks covered with incense paste rolled on a bamboo stick. They are popularly used for spiritual and day-to-day aromatic functions, ranging from pooja to pest control.
Features of Incense Sticks:
Bamboo core: The paste of incense is rolled onto a narrow bamboo rod. Milder scent: Generally emits a less intense fragrance. Easier to use: Can be inserted fairly easily into most incense burners. Quicker burn time: Generally has a shorter burn time than dhoop. Usage: Suitable for regular use, everyday ambiance, or short meditations.