Dr. Bach's Five Flower Remedy

Bach flower remedies were devised by Edward Bach, a Harley Street doctor, in the 1930s. He believed that physical illness was rooted in conflict within an individual, which indicated imbalance in some area of their life. Dr Bach observed that people with physical and emotional problems recovered faster if they acknowledged the relationship between their emotions and physical health.

The remedies are created by steeping flowers in a bowl of water in direct sunlight or boiling them prepare a 'mother tincture'. This is the concentrated essence of the flower, which is further diluted 1:400 parts 40% organic French brandy to make the traditional Bach flower stock concentrate. This is used to make a combination with other remedies in a dispensing bottle or dropped into a glass of water for immediate consumption.

One of the most popular remedies is 'Five Flower', Dr Bach's only combination formula, which is used as a single remedy. This is used for times of emotional distress, including:

• Recovery from illness and trauma.
• Preparation for healing or therapy.
• For times of emergency, to diminish suffering.
• To relieve anxiety, for example before visiting the dentist or travelling.
• To quieten animals.

The Five Flower remedy is a combination of Cherry Plum, Rock Rose, Clematis, Impatiens and Star of Bethlehem, which can be taken by itself or in combination with other remedies.

Each flower has its own characteristics which contribute to the effectiveness of the Five Flower remedy.

Cherry Plum
The cherry plum grows to the size of a small tree, with pure white flowers which have a pink tinge. This flower helps in times of anxiety and with fears about loss of control over a situation. Cherry plum helps to bring peace and stillness within, to counteract the tension felt during stressful times.

Rock Rose
This yellow flower grows on downland and is used to treat reactions of great fear and terror. Rock Rose helps to restore stability and peace, and brings light to the darkness of panic-filled situations.

Clematis
The clematis flower will help to treat those who are dreamy, drowsy and not fully awake to the world and present circumstances. With white flowers growing on a spreading vine, the clematis will bring consciousness back into one's body and the present.

Impatiens
These mauve flowers grow along streams and in shady areas. The flower treats those who find it difficult to be patient and hope to carry out their work quickly. Impatiens will help to balance those who are restless and irritable.

Star of Bethlehem
This is used when someone is in great distress, for example after hearing serious news, losing a loved one or after an accident. The white six-pointed star helps to bring spiritual equilibrium and acceptance to those who are deeply disturbed by circumstances.

These flower essences form the most popular and well known combination remedy, 'Five Flower', prepared according to Dr Bach's original instructions for 'rescue' combination. It is also available as a cream, a spray and in alcohol free granules for children and pets.

There are also seven Bach flower remedies for chronic conditions and nineteen Bach flower remedies for emotional reactions to traumatic events. For more information you can visit www.healingherbs.co.uk, where all the flower remedies and associated personality traits are listed.

Healing Herbs Ltd was set up in 1988 to prepare Bach flower remedies to the highest standards, precisely according to the original directions of Dr Edward Bach. That is why we place such emphasis upon preparing the mother tinctures in a natural environment, on perfect sunny days, using the trees and plants which are healthy and in full bloom. Healing Herbs Ltd is run by Julian Barnard. He has been involved with the remedies since 1976 and is known internationally as an essence maker, author and teacher on the subject of Dr Bach and his Bach flower remedies.