Friday, November 9, 2007

Bach Flower Remedies

The Bach Flower Remedies consist on the dilution of flower essences to treat specially emotional and spiritual conditions, bringing also physical healing. They are a form of alternative medicine, which treats the person instead of healing a disease or its symptoms. These remedies act specifically on the emotional condition of the individual. The aim of this treatment is to transform the negative attitudes into positive, in a way that stimulates the potential of self-healing. It also allows the patient to fight against the diseases, by harmonizing the depression, anxiety and traumas. These flower essences are often used by doctors, adepts of the alternative medicine, psychotherapists, dentists and veterinarians. However, as an alternative therapy, it doesn’t substitute any medical treatment. Dr. Edward Bach Edward Bach (1886-1936) was born in Moseley, near Birmingham, and became a qualified doctor at the University College Hospital, in London. Dr. Bach believed that people’s attitudes and personalities influenced their health. In 1928, during a commemorative dinner, he observed the guests and concluded that they could be separated in different groups according to their behavior. By this experience, he concluded that each group would react differently to the diseases. On this year, he went to the Wales and collected two plants: Mimulus and Impatiens. He prepared them as he used to prepare oral vaccines and it was the beginning of the Bach Flower System of Remedies. His philosophy is based on the idea that the illness is a result of a conflict between our spiritual being and our physical being. The health and happiness are a consequence of being in harmony with our own nature. Dr. Bach defined seven conflict areas that interfere in health: peace, hope, joy, faith, certainty, wisdom and love. Indication In the book “The Twelve Healers”, Dr. Bach classified the 38 Bach Flower Remedies in seven categories, according to their indication: Fear: Rock Rose, Mimulus, Cherry Plum, Aspen and Red Chestnut. The flower remedies to fear can be used in many occasions like fright of illness, accidents, dark, undefined fears, etc. Insecurity: Cerato, Scleranthus, Gentian, Gorse, Hornbeam and Wild Oat. This category refers to the ones who are not self-confident or can’t make decisions. Lack of interest for present circumstances: Clematis, Honeysuckle, Wild Rose, Olive, White Chestnut, Mustard and Chestnut Bud. These flower remedies are recommended for the ones who remain stuck in past facts, want to avoid certain kinds of thoughts, are drowsy or melancholic. Loneliness: Water Violet, Impatiens and Heather. People that seek company may use this type of flower remedies. Sensibility: Agrimony, Centaury, Walnut and Holly. These are indicated to people who tend to disguise her worries with a good sense of humor, who feel envy and jealousy or the ones too dedicated in serving the others. Despair: Larch, Pine, Elm, Sweet Chestnut, Star of Bethlehem, Willow, Oak and Crab Apple. People who feel guilty, incapable, grieved or resentful may utilize these remedies. Over concern about others welfare: Chicory, Vervain, Vine, Beech and Rock Water. The ones who are stubborn, think constantly about the others needs or are very severe should use this kind of remedies. Rescue This is remedy composed by five floral essences: Impatiens, Star of Bethlehem, Cherry Plum, Rock Rose and Clematis. Due to its effectiveness to treat stress and emergency situations, it is indicated for many occasions: - Before taking an exam at school or a driving test ; - If someone has a hard task at work like a meeting or a job interview; - To face difficult situations like a loss of a beloved someone or family problems; - After accidents; - Whenever the person feels terrified, afraid or panicked. According to the book “Dictionary of the Bach Flower Remedies – Positive and Negative Aspects”, it can be used internally, diluted in water or a juice, and externally (as an oitment or a lotion). There are no side effects or addiction problems for Rescue, as it is a natural remedy.
About the Author: Marina Pastore is a writer for LocalHands.com , the world’s largest Massage Therapy Directory and the discussion forum for Massage Therapy including topics on massage techniques, alternative medicine, and more. For more information please visit http://www.localhands.com

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