A Magickal Herball Compleat.pdf - Magicka School

Bach does not write of plant preparations creating states similar to illnesses and
disease. Rather he emphasises that “negative energy” can be neutralised by
“positive energy”.
So, of what exactly did the preparations consist? Bach felt that a flower’s “spiritual
essence” could be transferred to water, a conclusion he arrived at on observing
fresh dew on a flower and an effect that he was sure could be strengthened by
bright sunlight [12]. Of course, it was hardly practicable to collect dew in any
appreciable measure and because of this Bach would resort to soaking the flowers
in pure, clean water and leaving them in a sunny location. Alternatively, the plant
would be boiled in pure water [13]. With both methods the plant matter is
removed and the water-based solution thus obtained is then mixed with brandy in
equal measure. As the remedies are extremely diluted - although not as dilute as
homeopathic remedies- there is no trace of the scent of the plant and it is
incorrect to refer to Bach Flower Remedies as a form of aromatherapy [14].
Those who advocate Bach Remedies often talk of the “energetic signature” of the
flower and also describe it in terms of a flower soul [15]. This bears some
comparison with homeopathic medicine where it is believed that the energy of the
preparation is transmitted to the patient and affects their soul in a beneficial
manner.
Depending on the nature of the patient’s affliction and what is seen to be the
underlying cause, Bach flower preparations may be used by themselves or in
combination with other treatments. In general they are administered orally.
Because they are completely safe patients can self-prescribe, or they may choose to
take the advice of a naturopath or doctor. Of particular interest to those interested
in Magick is the fact that many promote the idea that prescription can be done on
the strength of dowsing. Typically this is achieved through the utilisation of a
pendulum where a patient holds the preparation and the dowser looks for
significant swings in the pendulum to indicate suitability as a treatment.
When availing oneself of a professional’s services it is usual to expect that part of
the process will involve a fairly lengthy consultation where detailed questions are
asked over a wide range of topics about the patient’s life style, general health, diet
and emotional well-being. It is often the case that other courses of action may be
recommended as well as a Bach flower solution.
Perhaps the foremost and best known treatment is the Rescue Remedy, this is
mixture of Cherry Plum, Clematis, Impatiens, Rock Rose and Star of Bethlehem which is
prescribed for anxiety, panic attacks and stress. As a cream (with added crab
apple), it is the only Bach preparation that will work on the physical body and can
be used to relieve cuts, minor burns, stings and rashes. A list of Bach’s thirty-eight
remedies can be found later in the chapter.
Not only have Bach flower remedies been used on humans. They are also popular
in the treatment of a variety of domestic animals, as a casual search on the
Internet will reveal [16]. Those who advocate this type of treatment claim that it
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