Bach Flower Remedies List

Bach Flower Remedies are plant essence tinctures taken orally to balance emotions. Dr. Edward Bach created the system in 1936 in response to his belief that if emotions could be controlled, the body's natural defense system could prevent disease. Although subtle differences set apart the 38 essences, they are grouped into seven categories of emotions. Stefan Ball, in "The Bach Remedies Workbook," lists these groups as fear, uncertainty, insufficient interest in present circumstances, loneliness, oversensitivity, despondency, and over-care for the welfare of others. Bach flowers are available in health food stores and Internet sources as a self-help alternative. They should not replace qualified professional guidance.

Fear

Bachflower.com lists the essences included in the "fear" group as Rock Rose, Cherry Plum, Mimulus, Aspen and Red Chestnut. Rock Rose is indicated for fear that leaves you unable to think clearly. Cherry Plum is for fear of losing control. Mimulus is indicated for known fears, while Aspen is for vague and unexplainable fears. If you are afraid that something might happen to your family, Bachflower.com recommends Red Chestnut.

Uncertainty

In "The Bach Remedies Workbook," Stefan Ball explains that Dr. Bach's "uncertainty" group includes Scleranthus, Wild Oat, Cerato, Gentian, Gorse and Hornbeam. He suggests Scleranthus when you can't decide between two things, or Wild Oat if you can't choose from multiple options. The person needing Cerato is unable to trust his own judgment. Ball recommends Gentian if you feel discouraged and Gorse when you have given up hope. Hornbeam is indicated when you question your abilities.

Insufficient Interest in Present Circumstances

Bachflower.com lists the essences in the Bach flower group "insufficient interest in present circumstances" as Clematis, Honeysuckle, Wild Rose, Olive, White Chestnut, Mustard and Chestnut Bud. The Bach Centre recommends Clematis for daydreaming and Honeysuckle for reminiscing. Wild Rose is indicated for apathy. Olive is recommended for regaining interest in life and White Chestnut for clearing cluttered thoughts. Bachflower.com suggests Mustard if you feel depressed for no reason and Chestnut Bud if inattention is causing repetitive mistakes.

Loneliness

Essences included in the "loneliness" group are identified by Bachflower.com as Water Violet, Impatiens and Heather. The Bach Centre website explains that Water Violet is indicated if you love being alone but want warmer relationships. Impatiens is recommended for isolation caused by impatience with others. Heather is indicated for people who are unhappy being alone for any length of time.

Oversensitivity

The essences listed in the Bachflower.com grouping of "oversensitivity" are Agrimony, Centaury, Walnut and Holly. The Bach Centre lists Agrimony as the essence for those who hide their troubles from others, while Centaury is indicated for those who can't say "no." The Bach Centre recommends Walnut for sensitivity to change, and Holly for feelings of jealousy, envy or suspicion.

Despondency

Bachflower.com lists Larch, Pine, Elm, Sweet Chestnut, Star of Bethlehem, Willow, Oak and Crab Apple under the "despondency" group. They recommend Larch for low self-esteem and Pine for self-blame. If responsibilities have overwhelmed you, the Bach Centre recommends Elm. Sweet Chestnut is suggested if feelings have progressed to mental anguish. If shock is the cause of discomfort, they recommend Star of Bethlehem. Willow is called for if you feel victimized, and Oak if you have overworked yourself. Bachflower.com suggests Crab Apple if you feel despondent because of personal appearance.

Over-Care for the Welfare of Others

In "The Bach Remedies Workbook," Stefan Ball describes Chicory, Vervain, Vine, Beech and Rock Water as belonging within "over-care for the welfare of others." He recommends Chicory if care for others has developed into possessiveness. He describes Vervain for concern that has turned fanatical and Vine if you have become too demanding. Ball describes Beech as helpful when you have become overly critical of others and Rock Water when you expect too much of yourself.