Binchotan

Binchotan is a Japanese charcoal made from the ubame oak tree. It is also called white charcoal since it can burn at high temperatures. The bichotan is used to grill foods, and its use is favored since the high temperature creates strong thermal rays that can penetrate the food being grilled.

Other than heating, the binchotan is used to purify water. When it is used in rice cooking , it gets rid of impurities such as glucose, flour or talc which is used to buff the rice, and gives the cooked rice a clear taste.

Binchotan also absorbs odors and is often placed in rooms as a natural air freshener. Some commercial air fresheners use them as the active ingredient as well.