How the Remedies Work
The Bach Flower Remedy system, developed by Dr. Edward Bach, is designed as a simple, gentle, and complementary approach to emotional well-being. Because these highly diluted flower essences are non-pharmacological, they do not target physical illness or suppress physical symptoms. Instead, the system focuses on supporting personal growth and emotional balance by addressing an individual's unique everyday emotional experiences.
Many people choose to use these essences alongside conventional care. While standard formulas are traditionally preserved in alcohol, the system can also be prepared using a vegetable glycerin base, providing an alcohol-free option for those who prefer or require it. However, these essences should never be used as a substitute for professional medical treatment or prescribed medication.
How the Remedies are made
The remedies are made using one of two methods.
Dr. Bach devised the sun method for certain plants – mostly the more delicate flowers. The sun method involves floating the flower heads in pure water for three hours, in direct sunlight.
And for other remedies – mostly the woodier plants and those that bloom when the sun is weak – he created the boiling method in which a remedy maker boils the flowering parts of the plant for half an hour in pure water.
The online edition of The Twelve Healers includes the Latin names of the plants and says which method to use when preparing each of them.
In both cases the heat transfers energy in the flowers to the water. The energised water is then filtered and an equal quantity of brandy is added to it as a preservative. This creates the mother tincture.
Mother tincture is then further diluted at a ratio of two drops to every 30 ml to make the stock bottles/concentrate that you see in shops.
The personal blends are made from drops of the stock bottle/concentrate, adding spring water and a preservative (normally brandy or vegetable glycerin).
How to take the Remedies
You can take the remedies in several ways, and the instructions here are designed to be easy to remember. Taking larger doses at one time doesn’t have a stronger effect; but if you are going through a crisis you can take more frequent doses to get through it.
Take four drops. Four times a day.
1. Oral Use
Treatment Bottle
Take 4 drops, 4 times a day.
Stock Bottle (Concentrated Essence)
Take 2 drops, 4 times a day.
Rescue Remedy (Concentrated or Diluted)
Take 4 drops, 4 times a day. In times of need, it may also be taken every 15 minutes.
Rescue Spray
Spray twice into the mouth, 4 times a day. Two sprays are equivalent to 4 drops.
2. How to Take the Drops
Directly on or Under the Tongue
Place the drops on or under your tongue without allowing the dropper to touch your mouth or tongue - this helps prevent contamination.
Diluted in Water or Another Liquid
Add the recommended number of drops to a small amount of water or another liquid and sip. Always prepare a fresh dose each time you take your remedy, four times a day. Do not prepare one dose to sip throughout the day.
3. Make It Part of Your Daily Routine
The easiest way to remember your remedies is to include them in your daily routine.
Morning: First thing when you wake up.
Mid-morning or midday: Take your second dose.
Afternoon: Take your third dose.
Evening: Take your last dose right before bed.
A Gentle Reminder
Always follow the recommended dosage for your specific remedy. Flower essences are complementary products and should not replace appropriate medical or veterinary care.