Bach flower remedies
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Bach flower remedies use specially prepared plant infusions to heal the body and the mind. British physician Dr. Edward Bach developed this form of alternative therapy in the early 1900s. Dr. Bach believed that illness is the product of disharmony between the body and mind. Sickness is the outward expression of negative inward emotional states. In order to achieve physical health, emotions must be addressed.
Harmful emotions are divided into seven major categories, encompassing 38 negative emotional states in all. Each of these states is associated with a specific therapeutic plant. Each plant is also associated with a specific area on the surface of the body. In cases of trauma, Dr. Bach formulated a Rescue Remedy combining five flowers. Bach flower remedies are prepared in an alcohol-based formulation or creams. Australian bush remedies, Alaskan flower remedies, and Brazilian rainforest plants are thought to have a therapeutic effect similar to Bach flower remedies.
There are two methods of administering Bach flower remedies. The first is the sun method. The flowers are picked on a warm summer day in full sunshine. They are moved to a glass bowl with fresh water and exposed to direct sun for two hours. Dr. Bach believed the healing energy of the flowers would be transferred to the water. The water was then added to a bottle in equal portion to alcohol (Bach used brandy). This mixture was diluted in water for later consumption or application as a cream.
The second method, the cooking method, is a vital means of preparation since not all flowers and herbs bloom throughout the year. The flowers are picked in accordance with the sun method, but boiled down and filtered several times before being added to the alcohol preparation. They are administered orally or topically in a cream.
Western research has found that the effects Bach flower remedies are similar to those of a placebo for people with anxiety. Additional studies are necessary to determine the effect of Bach Flower Remedies. Because Bach flower remedies contain alcohol, treatments may cause drowsiness or stomach problems if combined with other medications. Pregnant women should not use Bach flower remedies. Allergy to certain flowers may also trigger adverse reactions to Bach flower remedies. While the scientific community has not proven Bach flower remedies effective, anecdotal and case evidence suggests it may be beneficial for some people.
