How to Make Frankincense

Mixing the Dry Base Ingredients

1). Freeze the frankincense resin overnight to make it easier to grind.
2). Grind the frankincense resin using a mortar and pestle or grinder, making it the consistency of flour or fine powder.
3). Mix the powder with makko (available at new-age or boutique stores that sell incense-making supplies). Experiment to get the proportions right. Test the proportions by making a trail of the mixture and igniting it. If it burns too fast, add more incense. If it burns too slow, add more makko. Note the proportions once you have gotten the mixture right.

1). Slowly drizzle warm distilled water over the dry incense-makko mixture in a small bowl. You may use essential oils to replace some of the water.
2). Knead the water into the mixture until it reaches the consistency of soft clay or Play-Doh---workable, but not wet.
3). Place the dough in a bowl, and cover it with a damp towel. Let the dough sit for 24 hours.
4). Knead the dough again. If it is dry, sprinkle a little warm water onto it. Keep kneading it until the dough is smooth, a process that could take a while.
5). Pinch off small pieces of the dough, and roll them into long stick shapes. With a butter knife, cut them into 4-inch pieces to prevent the sticks from curling during the drying process.

1). Lay wax paper on a cutting board or other flat surface. Spread the sticks on the paper.
2). Cover the sticks with more wax paper, then place a heavy book or something flat on top of the paper.
3). Slip the whole thing inside a paper bag, and crimp it closed. Put the bag in a warm dry place.
4). Open the bag and turn the sticks twice daily until they are fully dry. Rotating the sticks helps them dry evenly.
5). Store the sticks in an open dry jar for fragrant aroma in a room. Burn the sticks for a stronger fragrance.