Review (5/5): Refreshing, cleansing, invigorating, spiritual
Murray & Lanman's Florida Water (now made by Lanman & Kemp-Barclay & Co.) has a long history. It was first introduced for sale in 1808, an American-made version of Eau de Cologne (aka Cologne Water) originally from Cologne, Germany (Köln). The colorful label hearkens back to its beginnings; in fact, the label is little-changed from its earliest days. The company's website features 200 years of images related to this product--the early advertising itself is worth a visit to their site!
The spicy-flowery notes of Florida Water are complemented by sweet orange, lavender, and clove. Always promoted as a unisex scent, Florida Water can be used as a body splash, aftershave, skin toner, linen sprinkle, and so much more. Not as obtrusive or long-lasting as perfume or cologne, Florida Water is a light, refreshing tonic suitable for daily use.
The cooling, soothing, refreshing properties of Florida Water are valuable in many applications. Perhaps the tonic nature of this cleansing scent promoted its use in various spiritual practices. It has a long tradition in various folk applications, from cooling aching feet and rubbing down aching muscles, to adding to bathing water, and to sprinkling about the home for a refreshing, "just-cleaned," spiritually-elevated feeling. Some use Florida Water to refresh their heads, to cleanse their environment, and to cool the "atmosphere" in their homes.
Be sure to buy the original, Murray & Lanman's Florida Water. This inexpensive scent is wonderful to keep on hand. I tend to buy the 16 oz. size: Florida Water lasts for a long time if used just as a toilette water, or can go more quickly if used around the home.