In the early 20th century Dr Edward Bach, an English doctor and homeopath, saw in his patients that negative emotions could often lead to physical illness. He believed that wild flowers possessed healing properties which could be used to restore health to mind and body. Giving up a successful Harley Street practice to research the beneficial effects of flowers, he produced a range of 38 essences which, he felt, covered the entire range of human emotional ills. Since 1936 Bach (pronounced 'batch') flower remedies have been commercially available and today they are made by a number of different producers, and are popular around the world.

These essences do not have the scent of flowers. They are prepared as gentle medicines, to be taken internally. Each emotional state has a positive and negative aspect. By choosing the appropriate remedies you can strengthen your positive attributes. The 38 essences can be divided into 3 groups.

1) The Twelve Healers. These relate to the kind of person you are. A Mimulus type, for example, may have specific phobias or fears, but is also capable of great bravery. Scleranthus can help an indecisive person to be more determined.

2) The Seven Helpers are remedies for long term conditions such as despair or exhaustion. Gorse may give renewed hope to someone who has given up. Wild Oat may help a drifter to become purposeful.

3) The Second Nineteen are concerned with transient emotional states - reactions to short term difficulties or stress, accidents, bereavement etc. Sweet Chestnut might shine a light on a deep depression. Pine helps to lift feelings of guilt from someone who blames himself.

A combination of 5 flower remedies - Clematis, Star of Bethlehem, Cherry Plum, Impatiens and Rock Rose - make up the classic 'rescue remedy'of Dr Bach which many of us find invaluable for minor emergencies and everyday anxieties.

How to take Bach flower remedies.

Most people just put a couple of drops directly on the tongue for convenience, but the recommended method is to dilute 2 drops of one or more remedies in water. A 30ml dropper bottle is ideal for this. Alternatively, put 2 drops of each remedy in a single glass of water and sip at intervals. Caz West, Registered Homeopath & Nutritionist

by Caz West, Registered Homeopath & Nutritionist

For more articles please click here