The Healing Touch of Flowers: Understanding Flower Essence Therapy
In recent years, flower essences have gained global recognition for their profound contributions to holistic health and emotional healing. However, despite their growing popularity, these subtle yet powerful remedies often become “watered down” as they defy conventional biochemical study due to the inherent limitations of scientific research. This shouldn’t diminish the fact that they have been used for thousands of years in traditional healing practices to address both physical and emotional imbalances.
Happily immersed in a blanket of Flannel Flowers in the Blue Mountains.
Throughout history, many healers have understood that physical ailments often stem from emotional disturbances. Today, as science advances, these ancient theories are being validated. As a Naturopath, I love incorporating flower essences into my treatment plans for clients who seek a gentle approach to healing or require specific emotional support. Let’s dive deeper into common questions about these remarkable energetic medicines!
When Were Flower Essences Discovered?
The use of flowers for emotional healing dates back thousands of years, with references found in ancient Egyptian papyrus texts. Indigenous Australians also recognised the healing properties of flowers, incorporating them into ceremonies aimed at resolving both emotional and physical challenges. The earliest documented use of flower essences in Europe comes from the twelfth century, thanks to abbess Hildegard von Bingen. She would place muslin sheets over flowers at night to capture their dew, which she then collected and used to help those struggling with emotional issues. However, it was in the 1930’s that British physician Dr. Edward Bach revolutionised our understanding and application of flower essences through his clinical observations. This led to the creation of the renowned 38 Bach Flower Remedies, which have since transformed lives around the world.
Hildegard of Bingen
How Are They Made?
Unlike essential oils or herbal extracts, which contain physical components of the plants, flower essences do not retain any physical flower matter. They operate on principles similar to homeopathy, where the vibrational essence and life-force of the plant are imprinted in a water-based matrix. This process involves sun-steeping the flowers in water for a specific duration. The resulting infusion is then strained and potentised through dilution techniques.
Flannel Flowers steeping in the sun to create a “mother tincture”.
So, How Do They Work?
The efficacy of flower essences doesn’t stem from biochemical interactions within the body, making them challenging to study from a scientific perspective. Unlike pharmaceuticals or some herbal medicines that often suppress symptoms, flower essences resonate within the subtle human energy field, influencing both physical and emotional health. In essence, they work through vibrational energetics, stimulating the body’s innate ability to restore balance and achieve homeostasis.
Every plant carries its own unique vibrational energy, and flowers are considered to be the pinnacle of this energy. The Doctrine of Signatures (DOS), which has roots in Alchemical and Hermetic traditions, helps us understand how the macrocosm (the universe) relates to the microcosm (the individual). Through the lens of DOS, the energetic properties of each flower can be discerned from its colour, shape, habitat and growth patterns.
An example of DOS: Eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis) look like little bright eyes and are traditionally used for allergies where inflamed and irritated eyes are present.
How Can They Help You and Your Family?
One of the most beautiful aspects of flower essences is their safety; they can be used by everyone, including children and animals, both internally and externally! Positive outcomes from using flower essences may include increased peace and calm during stressful times, enhanced joy and optimism, the ability to forgive yourself and others, deeper connections and understanding in relationships, greater clarity and focus, and even insights into your life’s purpose and direction.
Depending on the individual’s level of imbalance, some flower essences may have an immediate effect, while others may reveal their benefits gradually over days or weeks. Anything that doesn’t resonate with the chosen flower’s vibration simply dissipates, and if the wrong flower is selected, you may not notice any changes.
I also highly recommend complementary practices such as journaling, meditation, affirmations or free writing while using flower essences. These activities can help you uncover and document valuable insights during your healing journey. 🌸
