In a world where stress and anxiety often prevail, we search for ways to find solace and calm our minds. One often-overlooked remedy is flower therapy, a holistic approach that can work wonders for your well-being.
What is flower therapy?
Flower therapy or essence therapy is an alternative and complementary medicine (CAM) form. The idea is that flowers emit a healing energy.
Flower essences are liquids that contain the energy of a flower. These are also known as flower remedies.
Edward Bach, an English physician, created modern flower essences in the 1930s. Bach believed that the energy of flowers could balance your emotions. Bach believed that flowers can promote mental, physical and spiritual wellbeing.
Flower essences are used for the same purposes today. Essences can be purchased in shops or from a therapist.
Some evidence suggests that flower remedies can help with anxiety and pain. There’s also some evidence that they may improve depression, immunity, and other psychological disorders. But the science is lacking.
Continue reading to learn more about this type herbal medicine. Learn about the benefits of flower essences and how to use them.
Benefits of Flower Therapy
There is a lack of scientific research on the benefits of flower essences. The research available on their benefits is limited.
Flower Essences for Anxiety
The use of flower essences can help to reduce anxiety. A 2020 study conducted by Trusted Source found that flower therapy helped reduce anxiety among children visiting the dentist. A 2012 study also found similar results in adults with moderate levels of anxiety.
A 2017 report on a case studyTrusted Source revealed that Bach flower remedies reduced anxiety among a women with menopause.
According to a review from 2008Trusted Source, flower essences balance emotions by providing energy. The studies did not explain how this energy actually works. Also, there is no scientific proof to support the existence of this energy.
This benefit needs to be studied in greater depth.
Flower Essences for Pain
According to a studyTrusted Source conducted in 2017, Bach flower remedies eased the pain of carpal-tunnel syndrome. The participants applied a cream containing flower essence to the affected area.
According to the research, essences could have biological properties which help with numbness. The study didn’t provide any hard scientific explanation.
A study from 2008, Trusted Source , also showed that Bach flower remedies can relieve pain. The researchers said that the therapy allowed participants to focus more on their emotional well-being than physical pain. The researchers also admitted that the belief in flower therapy played a role.
According to a 2019 reportTrusted Source, anxiety increases your perception of pain. According to a report from 2019Trusted Source, anxiety can increase your perception of pain. More research is required to confirm the effectiveness of essences in treating pain.
How to use Flower essences?
You can use flower essences in many ways at home.
By Mouth
You can mix flower essences with other liquids, such as water. The liquid can be directly ingested by placing it on your tongue or under.
You can also buy some flower essences in consumable form.
- Pastilles
- Chewing gum
- Liquid melts (dissolvable capsules)
- Lozenges
- Fizzy Tablets
- Liquid sprays
Follow the instructions on all product packaging.
On your skin
Some creams contain flower essences. The product will also contain ingredients that are good for your skin.
The skin cream can be applied like any other topical products. You can use the cream to treat pain by applying it on a specific part of your body.
Also available are flower essence salts. The bath salts dissolve in warm water when you take a shower or bath.
Who provides flower essence services?
A range of service providers offer flower essences, including:
- Spiritual coaches
- Massage Therapists
- Herbalists
- Nutritionists
- Naturopathic doctors
- Holistic nurses
- Reiki practitioners
- Acupuncturists
Search online for “flower essence therapy near me”. You can ask your current practitioner if they also offer flower therapy.
Be aware that essence therapy is not regulated. Training can be varied due to the many different certifications.
If available, read the reviews and research other qualifications of the provider. Do not hesitate to ask about their training.
Your therapist will ask you about your feelings and any specific problems. Your therapist will recommend essences that are suited to your personality and challenges.