Bach flower remedies, developed in the 1930s by English homeopathic physician Edward Bach, are intended to treat negative emotional states. Wildflowers and parts of plants are distilled into spring water, which practitioners believe then contains the vibrational memory, or the essence, of that flower. The 38 remedies--each corresponding to a specific emotion-- are given not to treat specific physical ailments, but to address the emotions that may have caused the patient to be susceptible to them. Bach flower remedies are an alternative therapy, not intended to replace medical treatment. Please consult your physician before attempting any herbal remedies at home.
Safety and Efficacy
Bach flower remedies are usually taken in a glass of water, with two drops being the standard dose; if you are undergoing a crisis, a practitioner might advise you to refill the glass and sip from it throughout the day. You can also take the remedies by placing two drops directly on your tongue. In a study titled "Bach Flower Remedies for Psychological Problems and Pain: a Systematic Review," conducted at Danube University in Austria and published in the May 26, 2009 issue of BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, researchers Kylie Thayer, et al, could find no overall benefit to the remedies compared with a placebo, but concluded that Bach flower remedies are probably safe to take.
Remedies for Anxieties and Fear
Practitioners prescribe Bach flower remedies to treat a wide range of fears, ranging from mild anxiety to overwhelming terror. For vague, free-floating fears, practitioners recommend the Aspen remedy. Bach Centre notes that Aspen is for any fear whose cause can't be named--from a slight sense of foreboding to real physical terror of an unidentified catastrophe. For specific fears, such as fear of public speaking, or an upcoming interview, practitioners may prescribe Mimulus, recommended by the Bach Centre for bringing out quiet courage and strength.
Remedies For Uncertainty and Indecision
For uncertainty, confusion and indecision, a naturopath or holistic healer might advise Cerato, used for people who lack faith in their own decisions and who tend to second-guess themselves. If you know what you want, but are unsure which direction to move in, or if you have vague, frustrated ambitions, your practitioner might advise the Wild Oat remedy; the Bach Centre recommends this for helping to find a sense of purpose.
Remedies for Lack of Interest in the Present
Honeysuckle is the gold standard of Bach flower remedies for people who seem to be living in the past. If you are overly nostalgic and feel the best part of your life is behind you, your practitioner might advise this remedy; the Bach Centre says that honeysuckle can help you learn from the past without needing to relive it. If you seem apathetic over the present while idealizing the past, you may also be counseled to take Wild Rose, intended to restore your interest in your current activities.
Remedies for Loneliness
Water Violet is prescribed for people whose native self-reliance and independence has become exaggerated, creating a barrier between them and others. According to the Bach Centre, if your impatience with others drives them away and contributes to your loneliness, Impatiens is indicated. If your loneliness stems from a self-centered obsession with your own problems, your practitioner might advise Heather to promote compassionate interest in others.
Remedies for Susceptibility or Over-Concern with Others
Cerato is a popular Bach flower remedy for patients who are overly reliant on the opinions and advice of other people. For submissive, "people-pleasing" behavior, Centaury may be prescribed. If you try too hard to impress people by masking your troubles with a carefree manner, Bach Centre suggests Agrimony. If you try too fervently to convert other people to your point or view, you may be prescribed either Vervain or Vine; the latter is a popular Bach remedy for people who try to dominate or manipulate those around them.
Remedies for Despair or Despondency
For people who are suffering from grief or loss, especially as the result of an accident, Star of Bethlehem is the remedy of choice. Bach Flower notes that this remedy is indicated for someone recovering from trauma. For periods of depression, during which life seems too difficult, Elm might be prescribed. If your practitioner feels your sorrow is tinged with resentment or self-pity, he may suggest Willow. For unbearable anguish, your practitioner may try Sweet Chestnut.
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