The life force of each different species of flower is in tune with a different emotion. For example, Aspen addresses fears of unknown origins.
A treatment of Aspen would accordingly lead to the person feeling increasingly fearless, joyous and eager. Dissolving and alleviating negative emotions allows the Higher Self to manifest increasingly in the individual's life.
This in turn enhances our sense of wellbeing and wholeness. If health is the sum total of a healthy mind, body and spirit, flower essences then play a remarkable role in promoting and maintaining health.
How were they discovered?
Flower essences have a long history. The Egyptians and early Aboriginals were among those who knew of flowers' healing properties. However it was an English practitioner, Dr Edward Bach, who "rediscovered" them this century.
Observing the importance of emotional health, he developed 38 essences using traditional scientific methods and intuition. Today there are flower essences available from flowers native to many countries.
How are they made?
To obtain the healing aspect of the flower usually a method of absorption by water is used. The procedure is both gentle and effective. Pure water is added to the extract and this is then preserved with alcohol.
It is acknowledged among many practitioners that a respectful, positive frame of mind during the procedure is important (some say essential!) if the essences are to be of the highest quality.
How do I take them?
Flower essences are usually ingested. They can be purchased in dilute (dosage) and contentrate (stock) strengths. You can use the stock bottle itself- directions are usually written on the bottle.
Alternativley, you can make up your own dosage bottle from the stock bottle. (Contact us if you would like directions)
When ingested, the recommended dosage is generally 2-4 drops of the stock bottle / 4-7 drops of dosage bottles, 2-4 times a day.
Flower essences can also be used in the bath, spray bottles, added to gentle creams / oils or rubbed into the skin
Both dosage and stock strength bottles should be kept away from heat, light and radiation (eg computers, televisions).
If taken as directed, a dosage bottle course usually lasts about 2-4 weeks, however, the remedy itself lasts considerably longer. If stored correctly, the shelf life of stock bottles is greater than that of the dosage bottles. (Sources vary with regards to the exact shelf life: 10 years plus)
Are there any side effects?
Flower essences have no negative physical side-effects.
(NB: Flower essences contain alcohol- if you are allergic to alcohol, first consult an experienced professional about possible SAFE ways to use essences.)
Their purpose is to promote self discovery, personal growth and the well-being that healing brings. They can connect us with a wide range of emotions. It is fine and appropriate to cease taking the essences at any point, should one feel so inclined. (A course of drops can be resumed at a later date if desired.)
Furthermore, a person may find it beneficial to seek some form of counselling while "working through" certain issues (with a flower essence therapist or another practitioner).
How much do they cost?
The price for stock bottles varies between different companies ranging from approx Aus $6.00 to $15.00. Dosage bottles usually cost between Aus$6.00 and $10.00.
Flower essences should not replace important and / or emergency treatment!
The International Flower Essence Centre makes every effort to ensure that their products are of the best possible quality but it offers no warranties or guarantees, implied or otherwise, regarding the use of these products and users do so at their own discretion.
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