As a doctor you may expect me to dismiss claims for the vibrational energy of plants.
Not so. I was privileged, when first qualified, to work for the late Dr Alec Forbes, a highly regarded NHS physician, excelling in conventional medicine. This extremely compassionate man was conscious that modern medicine, whilst improving so many lives, was not a ‘cure all’. Conditions persisted where conventional medicine was an imperfect solution. His concern drove him to explore numerous complementary medical approaches and he went on to play a key founding role in the Bristol Cancer Help Centre, now Penny Brohn UK.
Amongst the alternative treatments, which Dr Forbes used, side-by-side with conventional therapy, were Bach flower remedies – developed in the 1920s. Bach diluted selected flower essences with water and a little brandy and, dependent on the combination of essences, claimed to help many states of mind, including anxiety, despair and anger.
Thus I was interested to discover Saskia’s Flower Essences – which follow similar principles to Bach remedies, and yet are definitely different.
Saskia Marjoram (yes that’s really her name) has lived and worked with flowers all her life – having been a gardener, and later a florist to Prince Charles, so maybe it’s no surprise that she ‘feels’ the energy of flowers and knows how to use this to help others.
From the start, I was struck by the presentation of my sample essence, Breath Deep, Seek Peace. A hand-written card from Saskia herself explained the product. The beautiful apothecary-style bottle was hand-wrapped in tissue and there was an excellent accompanying guide, explaining the different flower essences.
I felt cared for, even before using the essence. I’ve tried Bach Remedies in the past, but what struck me about the Saskia Essence was the stronger taste – perhaps Saskia uses more flower essence? I’m not sure, but it was pleasing.
Was it psychological? I don’t know, but I felt a swell of hope, calm and happiness and this feeling persisted for some time. It’s main purpose is for sleeping, but the ‘winding down, letting go’ subtitle is relevant to many of us during this crazy Covid-2020, perhaps not just at bedtime.
Strength and Support (featured) offers help for dark thoughts and hopelessness. There are combinations designed for confidence, emotional relief and focus, for shock and – so important for us all, Sexy and Gorgeous – for self-love.
There are spray formulations too, and for those who require alcohol-free essences – the organic vodka component can be replaced with cider vinegar.
You can see the full range on Saskia’s website. A boxed set of 8 key combination essences (£64) is a fantastic gift for someone special (including yourself).
If you wish, you can choose your own combinations too, using Saskia’s helpful guide.
By Dr K Thompson, award-winning author of From Both Ends of the Stethoscope: Getting through breast cancer – by a doctor who knows
http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01A7DM42Q http://www.amazon.com/dp/B01A7DM42Q
Note: These articles express personal views. No warranty is made as to the accuracy or completeness of information given and you should always consult a doctor if you need medical advice.