Florida Water

Florida Water is a traditional American cologne, used as an all-purpose spiritual tool. It has been around for over 200 years, initially created by a New York City perfumer known as Robert Murray in 1808. Since then, it has become increasingly famous across the world as a versatile healing, cleansing, and purifying agent that has been used in various cultures and religions.

The History of Florida Water

Florida Water is not water from the state of Florida. Instead, it was named after the term ‘Floridian,’ referring to the mythological Fountain of Youth that was rumoured to exist in Florida. In the 1900s, it was brought under the production of the Murray & Lanman company and was sold as a refreshing, soft fragrance. It became famous during the Victorian era as a perfume for the middle and upper classes, but also found application as a health tonic, a cure for headaches and stomach problems, and an insect repellent.

In various Caribbean religions, such as Santeria and Vodou, Florida Water became an essential component of rituals, cleaning, and purification. It is believed to dispel negativity and evil spirits, and offer protection and love blessings. It is also used in the magic rituals of hoodoo and some forms of witchcraft.

Common Uses of Florida Water

Florida Water could be used in various ways that are both spiritual and practical. Here are some common uses:

Cleansing and Purification: Many people use Florida Water as a cleansing agent to remove negative energy and cleanse their personal space. It could be added to a bucket of water before cleaning the floors, or used as a spray in the home or on objects like crystals, jewelry, or even wallets.

Aroma: Florida Water is known for its refreshing, light fragrance. It could be used as a personal perfume or added to the laundry during the rinsing cycle for a fresh scent.

Skin and Hair Care: Florida Water contains alcohol and essential oils that are beneficial to the skin and hair. Rubbing a small quantity on the skin could help heal rashes, prevent itchiness, maintain the skin’s firmness, and reduce wrinkles. Adding a few drops to hair oil can also make the hair smell good and help prevent dandruff.

Spiritual Work: Florida Water is essential for many religions and cultures, especially as an offering or for rituals. It could be used in a bath before a spiritual event, sprinkled around the house, or offered to deities and angels as a sign of gratitude and respect.

Insect Repellent: Florida Water has insect repellent properties, so it is often used as an alternative to chemical sprays. A few drops of Florida Water on the skin or on clothes can repel mosquitoes and other insects.

Conclusion

Florida Water has come a long way from being a Victorian perfume to a versatile, all-purpose spiritual tool. It has been used in various cultures, religions, and spiritual practices and has shown itself to be a powerful agent for cleansing, healing, and protection. Its refreshing scent, nourishing properties, insect repellent qualities, and spiritual significance make it a popular item to have around the home, altar, or even in a purse or pocket. Have you used Florida Water before? If yes, what was your experience using it? If not, are you curious to try it out? Let us know in the comments!