(by Fiona Donohoe-Bales & Kate Mirow)

Bach flower remedies were developed by the English physician and homoeopath Doctor Edmund Bach during the 1930’s.  He believed the origins of disease can be traced to mental and emotional disturbances.  There are 38 flower remedies in all, which can be used singly or in combination (up to five remedies in total) to help correct imbalances in either personality or temperament.  Each flower essence contains the energetic imprint of the flower, which has its own unique properties applicable to specific mental or emotional conditions.  They can be used alongside other treatment modalities to gently and effectively support the healing process.

The following flower remedies are recommended for different conditions and are intended as a general guide rather than being specific to nay individual.  You may want to seek out a trained Bach flower therapist for remedies tailored to your individual needs.

Mustard – for the types of depression that descends like a dark cloud but has no identifiable cause.

Gentian – for depression for which there is no known cause.  This may include setbacks that cause discouragement, disappointment or loss of faith.

Elm – used for both anxiety and depression; indicated if you have a sense of being overwhelmed by life’s pressures, a feeling of not being bale to cope.

Holly – for depression and anxiety underpinned by feelings of anger, jealousy or hatred.

Star of Bethlehem – used for depression underpinned by feelings of grief or sorrow.

Cherry Plum – for irrational thoughts and fear of the mind giving way.  Particularly useful during times of increased stress.

Impatiens – highly effective for anxiety, especially where there are issues around time such as not having enough or always being rushed or having impending deadlines.  It’s also very effective for insomnia when combined with White Chestnut.

White Chestnut – classically indicated for worry and mental arguments that interfere with rest and peace of mind.

Aspen – for anxiety of unknown origin.  It is useful for generalised anxiety disorders.

Rock Rose – good for panic attacks, terror, nightmares and for frightening thoughts.

Larch – for those whose depression or anxiety is characterised by low self-esteem or by a frail sense of self. 

Walnut – useful when depression is triggered by resistance to change or too much change.