Spring time is a time when many of us are itching to get out in the garden and get some dirt under our finger nails. The very act of being outside and digging is therapeutic in itself, but did you know that many of our garden flowers and yes, even those weeds have healing energies?
In times when herbs were the only medicines available, gardens were an important part of survival. Many cultures have used plants not only for their physically medicinal qualities, but also for their spiritual or energetic qualities. Egyptian priests would float roses in bowls of water and drink some of the healing water before going to prayer. Aborigines would eat the flower, or if inedible, sit in or near the plant. In the 1930's Dr. Bach used flower energy to heal many of his patients who suffered from emotional disturbances which caused physical symptoms. Dr. Bach is the person whose method of making flower essences is followed by many producers to this day. The process is a simple one of cutting flowers in the early morning when they are at the height of blooming. Place the blossoms in a clear bowl of spring water and leave it in the sun for approximately 3 hours. During that time the energy of the flower is absorbed by the water and potentised by the sun. To preserve the energy just made, put the infusion in an amber bottle that is ½ filled with brandy. The brandy prevents bacterial growth and mold, and also holds the vibrational energy of the flower. This is a mother essence. From there, the solution is diluted to stock and then to dosage levels. More detailed descriptions of how to make a flower essence can be found in most books on flower essences
Today we have the luxury of gardening for the sheer pleasure and do not consider the healing benefits of the plants we are tending. At least not on a conscious level. Have you ever thought about why you may be attracted, or have a dislike for certain flowers? Knowing what energies these flowers give out may give you some insight into issues in your life that need balancing and intuitively you have sought out the very flower that can help you.
Here are some of the energy definitions of flowers common to gardens in many areas.
Chamomile: A calming essence useful when feeling angry, irritable, easily upset and moody. Eases tension and anxiety. Relaxes the mind so sleep comes easier.
Dandelion: For those who tend to “over do it”, leaving little time in their life to stop and enjoy the moment. Relieves tension brought on by trying to do it all. Promotes awareness of our body’s need to rest. A great essence to add to a massage oil.
Grape Hyacinth: Restores balance after stressful situations. Offers a different perspective allowing for new energy and strength to be brought in to the body replacing despair with hope.
Lavender: Clears and calms the mind. Has a soothing effect. Helps one to unwind and release tension felt in stomach, head and shoulders.
Pansy: A healer of the heart. Also known as Heartsease, this essence helps comfort and ease the grief felt in the heart due to loss. Also helps boost the immune system.
Bleeding Heart: For times of separation such as loss of loved one, break up of relationship, or moving to a place of unknown. Helps in the release and detachment of emotions that break our heart and restore harmony.
Black-eyed Susan: For when we are feeling vulnerable and low in self esteem. Restores a sunny disposition, strength and stability.
Nasturtium: For when feeling drained from intense intellectual focus such as writing reports, studying or when from being obsessed with an issue. Restores vitality and energy and brings back the colour to our lives.
Zinnia: Helps bring back joy, playfulness and humour in our life when we have become too serious or self absorbed. Reminds us that laughter is the best medicine
Flower essences are not a magical cure for what ails us, but can help us through difficult times and help us maintain our healthy outlook on life. Flower essences work on our emotion, mental and spiritual level to restore balance and harmony and increase our ability to face challenges and maintain a positive attitude.
Many of the above essences are in the Kootenay Flower Essence Combinations. They can be ordered separately by contacting info@elementalenergies.ca .