“Do Bach flower remedies have contraindications?”, this is a question I hear often. Indeed, Bach flower remedies are known by many as a natural remedy useful for balancing emotions and promoting psychophysical well-being. However, among the many doubts that arise regarding the use of these remedies, the most common is related to Bach flower remedies’ contraindications and possible side effects. With this article I want to clarify these issues, dispelling some myths and reassuring those who want to use them for their emotional balance.
Safe and natural remedies
Bach flower remedies are natural remedies that can be considered safe and free of side effects. The reason is simple and is linked to the way the essences are made, which are free of active ingredients. This natural remedies devised by English physician Edward Bach in the 1930s are obtained by leaving the flowers to infuse just long enough to inform the water with the plant’s energy. The resulting remedy is stored in small dark glass bottles together with a small amount of brandy or apple cider vinegar. Each flower is used individually or in a mixture of several flowers to treat emotional and minor psychological distress.
Bach got the idea for this method by observing dewy flowers. While taking his morning walks in the English countryside, he came up with the intuition that dew could absorb the energetic and vibrational qualities of the plant and become a gentle, natural and unobtrusive remedy. From this intuition he perfected his method of collecting and preparing the remedies we know today.
“Simplicity is the key to this healing system” Edward Bach
Bach flower remedies have no relevant contraindications and are considered safe to use, even in the case of overdose. Although their use may seem harmless, it is important to follow certain guidelines to avoid excessive or incorrect use. Let us look at them in more detail.
Bach flower remedies: side effects and overdose
Bach flower remedies are natural and without chemicals, they do not contain active ingredients as is the case with medicines and phytotherapeutic products. Consequently, even in the case of an overdose of Bach flower remedies, no noteworthy negative effects have ever been recorded.
Our body is not only flesh and bones, but also made of energy. Imagine you are a radio, each part of you is a frequency that interacts with the others. Bach flower remedies help to tune the frequencies, bringing balance and well-being. Like the radio finding the right station to play your favourite music, the Bach flower remedies act on these subtle energies to keep the body in balance and healthy.
This is one aspect that makes the Bach flower remedies particularly popular with those seeking a gentle, risk-free remedy. However, an overdose could amplify its primary effects. An overdose of Bach flower remedies could cause a temporary increase in the intensity of the emotions it was addressing in first place. Since the flowers act on an energetic and emotional level, they could also give a feeling of emotional exhaustion. It is always recommended to follow the indicated doses to avoid any unwanted reactions. If in doubt, you can talk to your Bach flower consultant for personalised advice.
How to take Bach flower remedies
The use of Bach flower remedies is a complementary approach that can be used alongside other therapies, and the methods of use can vary depending on the specific need. Usually 4 drops are recommended to be taken directly under the tongue or diluted in a glass of water four times a day. Two times could be at the beginning and end of the day. The other two intakes could be mid-morning and mid-afternoon, so as to have a balanced distribution throughout the day. However, quantities may vary according to personal needs and the advice of a Bach flower therapist.
In the case of Rescue Remedy, it is recommended to take it according to the need of the moment. Rescue Remedy for anxiety or in cases of altered emotionality is generally used every half-hour, with the method of four drops under the tongue, until the balance is restored.
Emotions and their Bach’s remedies
Edward Bach worked for many years with his remedies on both himself and his patients. He selected flowers according to the emotions that most influenced emotional well-being and divided them into seven main types that summarise 12 moods:
- Fear: rock rose, mimulus, cherry plum, aspen and red chestnut.
- Insecurity: cerato, scleranthus, gentian, gorse, hornbeam and wild oat.
- Apathy: clematis, honeysuckle, wild rose, olive, white chestnut, mustard chestnut bud.
- Solitude: water violet, impatiens, heather.
- Hypersensitivity: agrimony, centaury, walnut and holy.
- Discouragement and depression: larch, pine, crab apple, sweet chetsnut, elm, star of Bethlehem, oak and willow.
- Obsessive concerns: chicory, vervain, vine, beech and roch water.
Bach chose flowers based on his observations and the intrinsic characteristics of the plant itself, and by analogy, he matched the flower he felt could resonate with emotional imbalances to restore harmony.
“Look for the mental conflict lurking in the person ,
Give him the remedy that will overcome it and all the hope and encouragement you can,
then virtue within him will do the rest“.
Edward Bach
When I take Bach flower remedies I feel worse: how is that possible?
Sometimes, especially at the beginning of a therapy with Bach flower remedies, one may feel a little worse in the first few days. This means that the remedy is working and begin to bring ignored, repressed or masked emotions such as anxiety, sadness or frustration to the surface. This process is completely normal and part of the emotional healing journey. In these situations, we speak of a ‘healing crisis’, a time of transition that may seem difficult, but which is temporary and part of the growth process.
Over time, crystallised emotions emerge and are processed, through the pathway that, supported by Bach remedies, invites awareness and self-listening. A process that leads both body and mind to regain a new, deeper and more lasting balance. In any case, it is important to remain calm and continue taking the mixture as indicated, unless the discomfort is particularly bothersome. If you feel that the discomfort lasts too long or becomes too intense, consult your trusted Bach flower practitioner who will be able to give you guidance on this and if appropriate make it more suitable to your needs.
Natural, risk-free support
If you are wondering if Bach flower remedies are bad for you or if there are contraindications, the answer is no. They are free of side effects, unless there are individual conditions for which they cannot be taken. For example, there might be some intolerance to alcohol and in this case you can tell the Bach flower therapist who will prepare the mixture using a different method of preservation, such as adding few drops of apple cider vinegar, or advise you to keep the Bach flower mixture in the fridge. There are no side effects and the remedies are safe even in the case of excessive intake, although, as with any other natural remedy, considerate use is always recommended.
If you would like to know more about how the Bach flower remedies can support you in balancing your emotions, without worrying about side effects or contraindications, contact me for a personal consultation. I will be happy to give you all the information you need and help you choose the right remedy for you.
WARNING! The Bach flower remedies are not a medical aid and do not replace the advice or treatment of a medical professional. We recommend that you consult your doctor before a consultation with a Bach flower expert, especially in the case of existing medical conditions. The purpose of Bach remedies is to support general well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Bach flower remedies?
Bach flower remedies are 38 flower essences created by English physician Edward Bach in the 1930s, designed to treat emotional and psychological distress. Each flower corresponds to a specific mood, such as fear, sadness or anxiety, and helps to rebalance emotionality in a natural and gentle way.
Do Bach flower remedies have contraindications?
Bach flower remedies are considered safe and free of significant side effects. They contain no chemicals or pharmaceutical active ingredients, so there is no risk of overdose or adverse effects. However, in the case of allergies to alcohol or particular conditions, it is best to consult a therapist for personal advice.
How are Bach flower remedies used?
Bach flower remedies are generally taken in drops, 4 drops directly under the tongue or diluted in a glass of water, four times a day. The quantity may vary according to individual need. Rescue Remedy, for example, is taken on an as-needed basis for emotional emergencies.
How long does it take to see results from Bach flower remedies?
The results of Bach flower Remedies depend on the individual and the emotional situation. Some people begin to feel better after a few days, while others may need more time. Since they act on an energetic and emotional level, changes may be subtle but lasting over time.
Are Bach flower remedies suitable for children?
Yes, Bach flower remedies are also suitable for children. Since they contain no chemical ingredients, they are safe and gentle. They can be helpful in dealing with anxiety, fear, or other difficult emotions. However, it is advisable to consult an expert for an appropriate dosage, depending on the age and needs of the child.
Can I use Bach flower remedies together with other treatments?
Bach flower remedies can be used together with other treatments, including medication. As natural remedies that work on a vibrational level, they do not interfere with traditional therapies. However, it is always advisable to consult a professional, especially if you are following a specific medical treatment, to avoid possible interactions.
What makes Bach flower remedies different from other natural remedies?
Bach flower remedies are distinguished by their energetic and emotional approach. Unlike other natural therapies, which focus primarily on the physical body, Bach flower remedies aim to rebalance emotions and moods, working on a subtle level to restore harmony and psychophysical well-being.