Tabu is a specific type of incense powder (makko in Japanese) : it is the finely powdered bark of the Machilus Thunbergii tree which grows in most of Asia (Japan, Taiwan, Thailand and China). Due to its exceptional properties, it has been used for centuries as a base for making Japanese incense:
- Mixed with water it acquires a consistency similar to plasticine, which allows to easily model sticks, cones or spirals.
- As it is almost odorless, other aromas can be added without altering them, as well as ground ingredients (cloves, cinnamon, sandalwood, aloe...) and perfumer's essential oils.
- It burns smoothly and evenly.