Authors : Nainsi Kushwaha; Kanchan Awasthi; Madhu Prakash Srivastava; Neeraj Jain

Volume/Issue : Volume 10 - 2025, Issue 5 - May

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/5fnmrn65

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/25may541

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Abstract : The present dissertation explores the development of eco-friendly, antimicrobial herbal incense sticks using floral waste and natural ingredients as a sustainable alternative to conventional, chemically processed incense products. India generates massive quantities of floral waste, particularly from religious offerings, most of which ends up polluting water bodies and landfills. Simultaneously, traditional incense sticks, while culturally significant, often contain harmful chemicals contributing to indoor air pollution. This study presents an innovative, environment-friendly approach by repurposing discarded flowers combined with ingredients such as guggul, loban, clove, sawdust, charcoal, and natural binders like honey and ghee. The formulation avoids synthetic adhesives, thus aligning with the goals of health safety, environmental conservation, and green entrepreneurship. The resulting incense sticks are non-toxic, biodegradable, and culturally respectful, offering potential for women's empowerment through small-scale, home-based businesses. This work highlights the viability of waste-to-wealth conversion and supports sustainable development goals by promoting responsible consumption, environmental health, and rural livelihood generation.

Keywords : Eco-Friendly Incense Sticks, Floral Waste Management, Herbal Formulation, Antimicrobial Incense, Sustainable Product Development, Women Empowerment.

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