AUGUST… agua de flores

Around the Sun with Herbalism in August is all about AGUA de FLORES. Lanman & Murray have been making the commercial version of Florida Water since the 19th century; herbalists around the world use this water in flower essences, baths with fresh flower petals, room & body sprays.

There are hundreds of recipes for ‘florida water’ and it is used in all kinds of spiritual activities… from cleansing, blessing, and protecting, to offerings for the ancestors, to healing and removing negativity.

I make my own agua de flores and each batch is slightly different because I use whatever aromatic flowers and herbs are available at the time. Florida water is quite commonly made with alcohol, which adds to its cooling effect. Our workshop this month will combine the following ingredients:

citrus peel

rosemary

mint

lavender

clove

cinnamon

ginger basil

But if you wish to go another direction with your aromatherapy, we can add essential oils to any combination of herbs you choose.

I planned class to be around the new moon, so you can let your jar of goodness sit in a dark space (and macerate) for one lunation before using. And when it is finally ready, I highly recommend gathering some fresh flower petals to sprinkle in a warm bath & pour in some of your magic potion to soak in the phytonutrients and sweet vibration of flower essences.

I have always found how herbs benefit not only our bodies, but our emotions as well, to be endlessly beneficial:

-       Essential oils work by way of aromatherapy

-       Flower essences work by way of vibration & essence

-       Herbs work by phytonutrients & absorption