Flower essences are herbal infusions or decoctions, made from the flowering part of the plant, which uniquely address emotional and mental aspects of wellness. The first 38 flower remedies were formulated by a British physician, Dr. Edward Bach, in the 1930's, although new remedies from other plant species are now available.
To understand how flower essences work requires a recognition that the human being is more than a physical body, but also incorporates a "body" of life energy, a "body" of sensitivity and feelings, and a spiritual essence or Self. Flower essences are energetic imprints of the life force of plants which interact with these subtle bodies of the human being, and evoke specific qualities within us. We can say that they work in a similar way to inspirational music or art, which carry meaning through the vehicle of sound or light, while the flower essences work through the medium of water.
Modern physics has known for nearly a century that matter and consciousness are intertwined. However, medical science still generally works with a nineteenth century model of the human being as a mechanism in a world of machines. We expect that in the coming century medical science will develop ways of studying the impact of consciousness on health, and we will learn more about the ways in which flower essences work. However, empirical research, which consists of the collection of case studies and practitioner reports, will remain the primary source of knowledge about how flower essences work.
To use flower essences, choose an issue you are dealing with in your life – relationships, lifestyle, self image, stress level, career matters, or simply general well-being. Then select a few flower essences which most precisely describe your current situation, using the list of qualities linked below. It is best to work with no more than three to five essences at a time, so that you can focus clearly on the main issues.
Flower essences are taken a few drops four times a day, over a period of one month. During this time, become aware of changes in your responses toward the selected issue. Occasionally people experience immediate or dramatic changes when taking flower essences. Others may have difficulty perceiving any changes. The most typical pattern is to discover the gradual effect of the essences over a period of time.
Flower essences are not panaceas, but rather inner catalysts that stimulate our ability to respond, or take responsibility for our growth. Flower essences are most effective when used as part of a wholistic program of health enhancement. They support other therapies and health practices by stimulating greater awareness of our inner life, and building a vital bridge between the realms of body, soul, and spirit.
*THANKS TO FLOWER ESSENCE SOCIETY INFO*