INCENZO’s Awaken Incense is made from Lotus following the recipe of 荀令十里香, which can be directly translated as “Mr. Xun’s ten mile incense”, which is a scent that Yu Xun, chief adviser during the East Han dynasty, used to carry and scent his clothes.
It is said that after Mr. Xun leaves a place, this scent is left on his seat for days and can be traced for ten miles if he passes by. Although a bit exaggerated, this is a recipe said to be used by this famous politician and becomes a representation of himself.
There is also an incense recipe with similar intention called “Lotus cloth incense”, reflecting the theme directly in its name: lotus. Lotus is one of the most representative flowers of traditional Chinese culture due to its nature.
There is a famous saying “growing out of mud but not stained” that perfectly describes how lotus grow in ponds of mud, and is used to praise people who have integrity and are uncorrupted especially in complicated political environments. As lotus bloom during summer time, flowering viewing is also a common activity to appreciate the beauty of lotus in ancient times.
Therefore, to reflect its clear and refreshing nature, the recipe used clove for floral scent, a wooden base and spiciness from fennel for greenness, and borneol for mint-like coolness. The light and even a bit chilly floral and green scent with a grounding wooden base scent balances perfectly, reminding one of sitting by the pond under a roof where the breeze brings the delicate scent of lotus.
As the incense balances different elements, it is great for clearing the mind before meditation, studying or working, or for chilling and relaxation like taking a nap in a summer afternoon.
