The information in this article is intended as an informational guide. The remedies are intended to supplement, not replace, professional medical care or treatment.
What are Flower Essences?
Flower Essence Therapy is a vibrational therapy, not to be confused with aromatherapy or essential oils. While there is no fragrance to the flower essences, a vibrational essence is a liquid that holds the vibrational imprint of a flower. The essences are traditionally used to treat underlying negative emotional and mental states.
I use English Flower Essences made from the same 38 flowers that Dr. Edward Bach originally used. To make a custom formula, I may mix up to five flower essences in a spring water and brandy solution. The brandy works as a preservative. I choose the flower essences by placing them on the body one at a time and testing each with a pendulum.
The traditional dosage is four drops under the tongue, 3 times a day. You may also add them to your bathwater or apply them directly to the body.
Here are a few examples of what flower essences are traditionally used for.
Elm (Ulmus procera): For feelings of being overwhelmed by personal or work obligations.
Impatiens (Impatiens glandulifera): Impatience, irritation, intolerance, and pain due to resistance in the body
Pine (Pinus sylvestris): Self-blame and guilt issues.
Mimulus (Mimulus guttatus): Exaggerated concern for daily life events.
Olive (Olea europaea): Extreme exhaustion or physical collapse usually due to extreme demand on one’s physical forces.
Star of Bethlehem (Ornithogalum umbellatum): Shock or trauma, either recent or from an experience.
Cherry Plum for strong, suppressed emotions and sexual drives
Impatiens + Vervain for severe nervousness and hyperactivity
Oak, when we are grim and put too much pressure on ourselves
Clematis + Wild Rose for lack of enthusiasm and drive, drowsiness, and lack of interest in life
Hornbeam for weakness and a permanent feeling of stress and overwork.”
Books on Flower Essence:
Floral Acupuncture: Applying the Flower Essences of Dr. Bach to Acupuncture Sites
The Encyclopedia of Bach Flower Therapy
New Bach Flower Body Maps: Treatment by Topical Application
Advanced Bach Flower Therapy: A Scientific Approach to Diagnosis and Treatment
Flower essences are used for pets as well. Animals are sensitive to alcohol, so diluting is recommended. I once had a kitty who was afraid of everything. One day, she started hyperventilating when another cat came into the yard. I put the flower essence formula I made for her on her spine, and she stopped hyperventilating on the spot. After a few treatments, she started chasing cats out of the yard! Here is a book specifically for cats. There is also one for dogs, horses, and birds.
I used Flower Essence Therapy in combination with abdominal massage therapy. I used them directly on the belly after an abdominal massage, or in a custom formula. The vibrational therapy of flower essences blended beautifully with the treatment.
Author's Bio
Barbara Horsley has more than 26 years of experience as a licensed massage therapist. She specializes in abdominal massage and Visceral Manipulation™ and is an NCBTMB-approved educator. In addition to being certified in abdominal massage, she also studied biomechanics and restorative exercise. She is also a Certified Women’s Herbal Educator and a graduate of the IWHI Perimenopause & Menopause Certificate Program.