What are Flower Essences?
Healing through Flowers
Flower essences are a niche category of dilute herbal remedies formally developed by Dr. Edward Bach in the 1920s and 30s.
This article will talk about the definition of flower essences, their historical lineage, a theory for their effects, practical methods of use, and the benefits of working with a practitioner. It also features an extensive FAQ about their use.
What’s a Flower Essence?
Flower essences are liquid solutions infused with the vibrational imprint of specific flowers. These solutions are obtained by creating a solar infusion of flowers in water under specific conditions. The resulting infusions capture the energetic properties of the flowers, and are believed to positively impact emotional and psychological states when ingested.
Historical Roots of Flower Essences
The relationship between humans and flowers extends beyond written history. The modern development of flower essences begins with Dr. Edward Bach in the 20th century. A British physician, He noticed that people coming to his medical clinic exhibited certain psychological states, and he believed that addressing emotional imbalances could contribute to overall well-being. Bach developed the Bach Flower Remedies by identifying 38 flower essences that correlated with specific emotional states he observed. His innovative approach linked emotional equilibrium to overall well-being, before the term "mind-body healing" became a trend.
How Flower Essences Work
Truthfully, we’re not sure how or why flower essences work.
In herbalism and folk medicine, there’s a theory called the “doctrine of signatures,’ where certain qualities, colors, behaviors, and forms of plants affect similar qualities, colors, behaviors, and forms in the human body.
For example, elderberries look like the alveolar structures of the lung, and positively impact respiratory function. As a flower essence, I’ve found elder supports people experience and process grief, the emotion corresponding to the lungs in East Asian medicine.
How To Use Flower Essences
Flower essences come in tincture form. They can be taken orally, usually in the form of diluted drops under the tongue or mixed with water. Additional application methods include incorporating essences into skincare products or diffusing them in living spaces.
If you choose to work with Lizzie, she will give you detailed instructions for using your formula.
Working with a Practitioner
There are many resources for flower essence information online, and there’s plenty of information available for you to safely choose flower essences yourself. That said, the involvement of a flower essence practitioner offers several practical benefits.
First, trained practitioners possess a comprehensive understanding of the range of flower essences available.
Second, trained flower essence practitioners guide individuals through an introspective process, helping them identify emotional patterns and imbalances. It is sometimes hard to have a perspective on what your core challenges might be, and speaking with a practitioner can help crystallize the central themes your formula should address.
Third, sometimes sequencing certain flowers before others helps ease the therapeutic process, and an experienced practitioner would know what flowers might be best to work with before (or in tandem) with others.
A personal note: Even though I’ve worked with flower essences for over 10 years and have been certified by two different flower essence systems, I still work with a practitioner (generally 2-3 times a year) when I feel stuck, as I find it helps me get the results I’m looking for.
Where to Purchase Essences
There are several great companies offering flower essences. My favorites are Green Hope Essences, Desert Alchemy, Flower Essence Services, Delta Gardens, Alaskan Essences, Sister Spinster, and One Willow Apothecaries.
In Conclusion
Flower essences represent a nuanced approach to holistic healing, centered on the belief that vibrational imprints of flowers influence emotional and psychological well-being. Practical application methods offer avenues for personal exploration and emotional balance. Engaging with a practitioner provides additional depth and expertise, enhancing the effects of flower essence therapy.
Working with Lizzie
Lizzie offers both in-person and virtual flower essence consults to the people of California.
Sessions are 45 minutes long, and we’ll deep dive into what you’re currently experiencing right now, and where you’d like support. I’ll provide a flower essence formula prepared just for you.
Single sessions are available, although I encourage people to work have one session a month for three months for the best results.
You can book your first session here.
“Everyone of us is a healer, because everyone of us at heart has a love for something, for our fellow-men, for animals, for nature, for beauty in some form, and we every one of us wish to protect and help it to increase.
Every one of us also has a sympathy with those in distress, and naturally so, because we have all been in distress ourselves at some point in our lives. So that not only can we heal ourselves, but we have the great privilege of being able to help others heal themselves.”
-Dr. Edward Bach, Free Thyself
FAQs
What exactly are flower essences, and how do they differ from herbal remedies or essential oils?
Answer: Flower essences are liquid infusions from flowers, recording their energetic imprints rather than their physical properties. Unlike herbal remedies, which focus on the physical aspects of plants, flower essences work on an energetic level to address emotional and psychological well-being. While essential oils are extracted from plant parts, flower essences capture the vibrational essence of the entire flower, offering a subtler, non-physical influence.
How do flower essences influence our mental and emotional states?
Answer: Flower essences are believed to interact with our subtle energy systems, influencing emotions and thoughts. Each flower possesses a unique vibrational signature that resonates with specific emotional states. When ingested or used, flower essences subtly align our energy with the qualities of the chosen flower, potentially promoting emotional balance and transformation. I’ve found that flower essences work with acupuncture channels and organ systems, much like a needle-less version of acupuncture or reiki.
Can flower essences be harmful?
Answer: Flower essences are generally considered safe and gentle. If you have concerns or specific health conditions, including whether you can take them with your medications, consult with a health care provider for personalized guidance.
How do I choose the right flower essence?
Answer: Choosing the right flower essences involves introspection and consideration of your emotional landscape. Practitioners who specialize in flower essence therapy can guide you through this process, helping you identify emotional patterns and imbalances. Alternatively, self-reflection and research can guide your selection. Trust your intuition when selecting essences that resonate with your emotional state or challenges, and obtain your essences from trusted sources.
How long does it take to see results?
Answer: The time frame for experiencing results can vary widely based on individual factors, the specific essence used, and the nature of the emotional issue. Some people report immediate shifts, while for others, changes might unfold gradually over days or weeks. I love using flower essence formulas in 1 month cycles. Consistent use and open-mindedness can contribute to more profound and lasting effects.
Why should I work with a flower essence practitioner?
Answer: Practitioners bring expertise and insight to the essence journey. They possess in-depth knowledge of different flower essences and can help tailor recommendations to your specific emotional needs. Practitioners guide you through the process, assisting in the selection of essences and providing a structured approach to emotional exploration. Their guidance can enhance the effectiveness and depth of your experience.
That said, you can definitely work with flower essences on your own, and choose them for yourself! In fact, Dr. Bach encouraged this, and if you’re interested in discovering flower remedies yourself, I recommend reading his work.
Can flower essences be used with other therapies or medications?
Answer: Flower essences are generally safe, but it’s important to discuss complementary therapies, herbal medicines, and supplements you’re taking with your healthcare provider.
How do I book a session with Lizzie?
You can book your first session here.