BACH FLOWER REMEDIES: INTRODUCTION, SCIENTIFIC STUDIES & CLINICAL POTENTIAL
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Abstract
Bach Flower system of healing has been proposed by Dr. Edward Bach in the year 1930. This system shares certain commonalities with Homeopathy. Dr. Bach has major contribution towards the development of Bowel Nosodes in Homeopathy. He has developed Bach Flower Remedies (BFRs) for distinct emotional states. BFRs are 38 remedies of plant origin commonly dispensed in homoeopathic dosage forms. These BFRs are classified into seven groups. Each BFR is indicated for a certain emotional pattern or a typical personality. Many people doubt BFRs. They also reject Dr. Bach's theory as they find it based on intuitive hypotheses. BFRs have been reported to be “safe†by BF practitioners and “probably safe†by others. Very few animal studies have been conducted on BFRs. A case of Herpes Zoster in old age has been treated using BFRs. A clinical study has concluded that BFRs benefit by bringing positive emotional changes. Another placebo-controlled clinical trial has found utility of BFR based cream in pain relief in carpal tunnel syndrome. A study has reported the role of Bach Flower Therapy in reducing pediatric dental anxiety. Many clinical trials have failed to provide differentiation between BFRs and placebos. BFRs still have potential for use in nursing care; alternative care for pre-matures; chronic major depressive disorder, emotional imbalances; anxiety, mood changes, and insomnia associated with menopause; and infantile stress and frustration. The present article is an attempt to provide an overview of the BFRs and their potential in therapeutic practice.
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