Koala Bears. That is the first thing that pops into my head when I hear the word eucalyptus. The second, after a moments thought, is some terrible cough drop that trumpeted how it was made with eucalyptus. Mercifully I have forgotten the brand. Anyway, Hem offers a eucalyptus incense that is actually surprisingly good.

I am not sure what I expected from this stick, but the thought had crossed my mind that it would smell like cannabis sativa since the name on the package is “Cannabis” and it features the leaf we all know so well. Strangely though it smells very little like the cloud of smoke that generally hangs over the crowd at a Dead concert.

So with that aside firmly spell checked, lets talk about Satya Sai Baba Nag Champa. Is it worth the hype and number one selling incense spot? Well, yes and no. Make no mistake, it is an excellent nag champa. Perfectly representative of nag champa incense. Warm, earthy, sweet, slightly “moist” smelling and with plenty of character. However, that comes with a big “but”.

The Hem incense company puts forth a very good effort with their Hem Champa. Unfortunately it doesn’t have what it takes to be a serious contender to the current kings of the hill. Don’t get me wrong, I am not dismissing this version of nag champa with the wave of an elitist hand. It is just that what is an acceptable formulation of nag champa has such narrow margins and any scent that strays too far out of them falls by the wayside. This is by popular vote and not my personal opinion.

Vijayshree Fragrance, the makers of Golden Nag Champa deliver an excellent nag champa. It is everything that a nag champa should be. Including the slightly damp feel of the sticks when first opened. There is a reason that this nag champa consistently ranks right up there with Goloka, Satya and Shanthimalai.

Among all of the myriad nag champa offerings in the world it seems like Tulasi doesn’t get much respect. While Satya Sai Baba Nag Champa, Golden Nag Champa, Goloka Nag Champa and Shanthimalai Nag Champa battle it out for the top spots, Tulasi barely gets a mention in comparison. Which is sort of sad because it is definitely worth not only a mention, but it is worth trying as well.

People must think I am out of my mind. Selling incense and giving it not so great reviews. True, that doesn’t follow the usual advertising paradigm which is to lie, then lie some more, but I would rather be known for what I am. Honest.