Thiouraye Incense

Overview

Thiouraye (also written churai) is an aromatic incense made in The Gambia and Senegal. It is blended to family recipes handed down through generations, so there is no single fixed formula.

Scent Profile

When burned, it releases a scent reminiscent of wood, roots and resin. Some blends use plant-based aromatics, and some recipes include gowé, an aromatic root from the same botanical family as papyrus. Gowé is described as earthy and mineral, like soil and sun-warmed stone. It also has a vetiver-like woody depth, and a resinous warmth emerges as it smoulders.

Use in Perfumery

As a perfume note, the name evokes incense traditions of The Gambia and Senegal. Smoky resin and the earthiness of roots can add depth to dry woods.