Vanilla-scented HEM incense sticks in a hexagonal box about 25 cm long, made in India. The scent is sweet and rich.
Like a kitchen at baking time
Most of us know vanilla from the kitchen: custard, sweet bread, Christmas biscuits. This incense has the same sweet, dessert-like scent, so it suits anyone who prefers sweet scents to floral or woody ones.
Vanilla is the fruit of an orchid. It came to Europe from Mexico and is still one of the most expensive spices. This box of sticks gives you its scent.
People often light it an hour or two before guests arrive, so that by the time the doorbell rings the smoke has gone and only the scent is left. If you do the same, burn it in the living room rather than a draughty hallway.
No need to burn it to the end
With a rich scent, a little goes a long way in a small room. Once it fills the room, put the stick out and relight the rest another day. It is a good way to find out how much you actually like.
Holder and ash
An incense holder catches the falling ash, and you will need one to burn the sticks. Put it on a heat-proof surface, away from tablecloths and curtains, and do not leave the room while it burns. Air the room afterwards.
To put it out, press the glowing end into sand or against the metal part of the holder, and check a minute later that it has really gone out.
Keep the sticks in their box somewhere dry, away from the cooker and bathroom steam. Damp incense is hard to light.