Florida Water Cologne: Citrusy, Floral, And Refreshing

Florida Water is an American take on Eau de Cologne, with a light, floral, citrusy scent. Its top notes include sweet orange, lemon, lavender, cinnamon, and clove. The cologne is often used in spiritual practices, such as Hoodoo, and is believed to have cleansing properties. It is also used as an aftershave, a household cleaner, and a bath product.

Florida Water is a spiritual cleanser

Florida Water is also used in Ayahuasca ceremonies in the Amazon region, where the curandero (healer) will spit Florida Water onto the participant at points where they are expected to vomit or have a bout of diarrhoea due to its assumed spiritually purifying effects. In Honduras, it is used as a "treatment" for seizures, which are believed to be caused by demonic possession. In San Andrés, Guatemala, Florida Water is used by curanderos belonging to the Mayan people.

In the United States, Florida Water is a popular spiritual cleanser among Black Americans, Caribbean, and Latin American communities. These communities share African influences, and Florida Water is used as a tool for cleansing and protection in spiritual practices. It is believed to have spiritual cleansing and healing properties, and is used to ensure that spaces and personal effects are spiritually clean. It is also used in spiritual bath waters and floor washes.

Florida Water is also believed to work as a repellent for bad energies. It is said that the intention behind its use is important, and that prayer is what sparks any type of spiritual cleansing.

It has a citrusy, floral scent

Florida Water Cologne has a citrusy, floral scent. Its base notes consist of alcohol combined with diluted essential oils, including rose, cinnamon, lemon, neroli, bergamot, nutmeg, cloves, and orange flower. The cologne is often compared to 4711 Eau de Cologne, but it has notable aromatic differences. While 4711 unfolds as citrus and fresh bursts, Florida Water begins with a gentler, more aromatic smell before the heart opens to a soft lavender floral note. It ends with the scent of sweet orange, nutmeg, and cloves.

The cologne is an American version of an Eau de Cologne, with a citric scent that emphasizes sweet orange rather than the bergamote orange, lemon, and neroli of its European counterparts. The name refers to the fabled Fountain of Youth, which is said to be located in Florida, as well as the "floral" nature of the scent.

Florida Water was introduced by the New York City perfumer Robert I. Murray in 1808, who founded a company to sell the scent. Over time, the company changed hands and names, eventually becoming Lanman & Kemp, the modern producer of Florida Water. The current label is a slightly modified version of the original 1808 design, and the company claims that their product still uses the original formula.

The scent is described as refreshing and revitalizing, leaving the skin with a delightful glow and a faint, elusive, yet delightful scent. It is suitable for men and women, and its soft nature and gentle expression make it perfect for those with gentlemanly qualities.

It's an American take on Eau de Cologne

Florida Water is an American take on Eau de Cologne, first created in 1808 by perfumer Robert Murray in New York City. It is a citrusy scent with a unique blend of sweet orange, lavender, and clove, differentiating itself from traditional colognes that emphasise bergamote orange, lemon, and neroli. The inclusion of sweet orange and spicy notes gives Florida Water a distinct aromatic profile that sets it apart from its European counterparts.

The name "Florida Water" is derived from the fabled Fountain of Youth, said to be located in Florida, and the floral nature of the scent. Introduced by Murray's company in 1808, Florida Water gained popularity and, in 1835, businessman David Lanman joined the company, followed by George Kemp in 1853, resulting in the brand name Lanman & Kemp. The company's longevity and the fragrance's enduring appeal speak to its success.

Florida Water is considered a unisex scent, suitable for both men and women. In the late 19th century, it was recommended as an appropriate fragrance for all, along with sachets for scenting linen and fresh flowers in corsages. It was also commonly used in barbershops as an aftershave and for skin toning purposes due to its astringent properties. The high alcohol content in Florida Water, approximately 81%, contributes to its effectiveness as an aftershave and skin toner.

The scent has a complex evolution, starting with a gentle, aromatic opening, followed by a soft lavender floral heart note, and ending with sweet orange, nutmeg, and cloves in the drydown. This distinctive fragrance has a subtle presence, making it more suitable for spring and summer wear, and it is best suited for mature men with gentlemanly qualities.

In addition to its use as a fragrance, Florida Water has found a place in spiritual and religious practices, particularly among African American, Caribbean, and Latin American communities. It is used for cleansing and protection in traditions such as Hoodoo, Santeria, and Ifa, where it is believed to have spiritual cleansing properties and the ability to repel bad energies.

Florida Water has a rich history and a versatile range of applications, from personal fragrance to spiritual practices, showcasing its unique position as an American interpretation of the classic Eau de Cologne.

It's a unisex fragrance

Florida Water is a unique unisex fragrance with a rich history dating back to the 19th century. Created by perfumer Robert Murray in 1808, it is one of the oldest American fragrances and was once considered "The Richest of all Perfumes" and "The most Popular Perfume in the World".

The scent is primarily characterised by its citrusy notes, with sweet orange being the most prominent. However, it also has a complex blend of other aromas, including lavender, clove, cinnamon, bergamot, rose, and orange flower. These spices and florals add depth to the fragrance, giving it a gentle, aromatic quality that is both refreshing and subtle.

While the exact formula is a closely guarded secret, it is known to have an alcohol base, which gives it a tonic-like feel. This alcohol base also makes it versatile for household use, such as for cleaning and sanitising.

The fragrance has a soft, classic feel that is often described as nostalgic. It is particularly well-suited to mature wearers with gentlemanly qualities, evoking a sense of tradition and romance. However, it may not be bold enough for those who prefer stronger, more modern fragrances.

Florida Water's versatility extends beyond its use as a fragrance. It has been adopted by various spiritual and religious practices, including Hoodoo, Santeria, and Ifa, where it is used for cleansing and protection. The high alcohol content also makes it useful for first aid and insect bites, and it can even be added to bathwater for a soothing experience.

Overall, Florida Water is a unique and intriguing fragrance with a fascinating history and a wide range of applications. Its soft, citrusy scent is ideal for those seeking a subtle, classic fragrance with a difference.

It's affordable and widely available

Florida Water cologne is widely available in the United States at stores like Walmart, Walgreens, and Amazon. It can also be found in some international markets, including Dubai, parts of Africa, China, and more.

The cologne is affordable, retailing for as little as $6. It is also available in many different sizes, so you can try a smaller bottle before committing to a larger one.

Florida Water cologne has been around for over 200 years, and its unique scent has contributed to its lasting popularity. The cologne has a light, floral, citrusy scent with notes of sweet orange, lemon, lavender, and clove. It is considered a unisex fragrance and is suitable for men and women.

In addition to its use as a fragrance, Florida Water cologne has a variety of other applications. It can be used as an aftershave, to scent laundry, to clean surfaces, and even for spiritual cleansing and protection in some cultures. Its versatility and affordability make it a popular choice for many consumers.

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