In the late1920's Dr. Edward Bach a successful homeopath began the search for another way of healing - and found it.

One major difference between homeopathic medicine and flower essences is in how the medicines are made. Homeopathic medicines are made from plants** are typically used when fresh, and for any given remedy the roots, leaves, flowers or perhaps the whole plant is designated to be used. The part to be used is chopped and otherwise broken down, and essentially covered with a predetermined mixture of alcohol and water. The mix is turned regularly and after a minimum of 14 days the mix is pressed out. The resulting liquid is called a tincture from which the higher potencies are made.

Flower essences are made by gathering the freshest, most perfect plants (usually the flower), which are placed in a plain glass bowl that has been filled with the purist water available. This is allowed to sit in the sun for four hours. The plant is then plucked out of the water and an equal volume of brandy is added to the remaining water. This is the mother tincture. The mix can be further diluted and succussed, or used in tincture form.

Determining which Bach Flower Essences to start with can be overwhelming without some help.  Downloading the Bach Flower Questionaire, and filling out the assessment is a good way to begin.

** Homeopathic medicines made from substances that do not breakdown in alcohol and water e.g., iron, calcium, etc. are triturated (ground in a mortar and pestle).