Tag Archives: Rescue® Remedy

Flower Essences for People and Pets

bach_flowerremediiesJacquie Eubanks RN BSN

Since the earliest times, as the healing powers of nature were recognized, plants have given us medicines, as well as food. In many parts of the world, flowering herbs, trees and shrubs have been used for centuries to treat all kinds of illness. Many of today’s pharmaceutical and OTC medications are derived from plant extracts or synthesized plant compounds. For example, aspirin was originally derived from willow bark, menthol from mint leaves, digitalis from foxglove and pain medications from coca leaves. Homeopathic medicines are based on materials from plants, animals and minerals that are repeatedly diluted in water and alcohol. Homeopathy takes a holistic natural approach to treatment in a quest to treat the whole person rather than focusing on a specific part of the body.

Developed more than 200 years ago, homeopathy, as described by The National Center for Homeopathy, is a safe, gentle and natural alternative system of healing that stimulates the body’s own healing power. By working with the body, homeopathy seeks to relieve symptoms and restore and improve overall health. Homeopathic medicine has been integrated into the healthcare systems of many European countries including Switzerland, France, Germany, Italy, Portugal and the Netherlands. Clinical evidence shows that homeopathy has a positive effect on wellness, and the demand for alternative healing methods utilizing herbal remedies is growing in the U.S.

Based on the philosophy that “like cures like”, homeopathic remedies include infinitesimal or micro-doses of active ingredients that relieve the same symptoms they cause at full strength. Flower essences are a type of homeopathy that utilize similar principles. Based on the belief that disease or dis-ease is caused by imbalances within the body, flower essences address these imbalances at the physiological, emotional and spiritual level to allow the body to restore, repair and rebuild health. Homeopathic remedies have a very low risk of side effects and, when used appropriately, may be taken by people and pets of all ages.

Flower remedies are often used to affect emotional states. Evidence shows that emotions produce changes in certain hormones that may trigger biochemical responses, which can affect nerve function, digestion, respiration, circulation and immunity. Essences gently restore the balance between the mind and body by casting out negative emotions, such as fear, worry, impatience or indecision, that interfere with the peace, equilibrium and energy of the whole being, leaving the body free to heal itself. The first modern system based on flower essences was developed in the early 1900’s by British physician, Dr. Edward Bach, who over a period of years developed 38 flower remedies.

Dr. Bach developed these remedies based on his belief that the real cause of disease is a distortion of the body’s energy field, which results in negative states of mind and depletes a person’s vitality to the point where the body loses natural resistance and becomes vulnerable to disease. While Dr. Bach developed the 38 flower remedies that he believed were sufficient to cover all negative emotions, today many more essences have been developed to aid both people and animals in restoring and balancing their physical health by alleviating a wide variety of stressors, improving emotional stability and enhancing a positive mental attitude.

Homeopathic remedies must contain active ingredients that are listed in the Homeopathic Pharmacopeia of the United States (HPUS). HPUS, which has been in continuous publication since 1897, lists active ingredients that may be legally included in homeopathic products with standards for strength, quality and purity. Homeopathic remedies are regulated as drugs under the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act (FDCA), which allows homeopathic remedies that meet certain conditions to be marketed however, the FDA does not evaluate the remedies for safety and effectiveness.  

Professional Supplement Center carries these and other flower essences from Bach Flower:

 

Rescue Energy by Bach Flower

Rescue Energy – This all natural, non-habit forming flower remedy provides relief from physical, mental and emotional fatigue resulting from stress or stressful situations, and helps strengthen natural energy reserves. Gluten free.

 

Aspen Flower Essence by Bach Flower

Aspen Flower Essence – This essence helps to provide a sense of security and peace of mind for those with naturally occurring nervous tension, apprehension or non-specific fears or worries. Gluten free.

 

 

Rescue Sleep Liquid Melts by Bach Flower

Rescue Sleep Liquid Melts – This melt-in-your-mouth fast-dissolving capsule provides natural, non-habit forming relief of occasional sleeplessness resulting from stress or repetitive thoughts. Naturally flavored with vanilla and orange oil.

 

Clematis Flower Essence by Bach Flower

Clematis Flower Essence – For those who are dreamy with no great interest in their current life circumstances, Clematis helps one live more actively in the present rather than dreaming of future happiness. Gluten free.

 

Rescue Remedy by Bach FlowerRescue Remedy – Created to help those dealing with emergencies or crises or any sudden stressful situation, Rescue Remedy helps to provide focus and a sense of calmness. Vegan formulation.

 

 

Rescue Remedy Kids by Bach FlowerRescue Remedy Kids – This kid-friendly remedy provides safe, natural, non-habit forming support for a child’s emotional state and helps to restore balance. Alcohol free, non-drowsy formulation.

 

 

Rescue® Remedy Pet by Bach FlowerRescue Remedy Pet – This essence helps to reduce animal stress and tension and restore calmness and emotional balance for situations such as constant barking, visits to the vet or groomer, fear of loud noises, separation anxiety or any emotional crisis. Recommended by veterinarians and suitable for dogs, cats, horses and birds. Alcohol free formulation.

References:
The Homeopathic Pharmacopeia of the United States. http://www.hpus.com/
What is homeopathic medicine? http://homeopathyusa.org/homeopathic-medicine.html
Bach Flower Benefits. http://www.health-mind-body.com/bach-flower-benefits.html
What is homeopathy? http://www.britishhomeopathic.org/what-is-homeopathy/
What is HPUS? http://www.hpus.com/what-is-the-hpus.php

 

All Natural Remedies for Your First Aid Kit

FirstAid_NaturallSusan Brown Health and Wellness Editor

 

Whether or not we have a designated first aid kit, most of us will have bandages, headache relievers and perhaps an antibacterial cream on hand. Did you know that symptoms such as minor cuts, bruises and stomach aches can often be treated with natural remedies? The use of herbs is a time honored approach often used to strengthen the body and, where appropriate, as an alternative to conventional medicines and treatments. Well established folk remedies, which utilize ingredients provided by Mother Nature, can soothe those aching muscles, boost your immune system, fight infections or settle digestive upset. The addition of some herbal products to a first aid kit can serve you well, whether you are at home or on the road.

If you are looking to reduce chemical overload, here are some safe, natural suggestions that can be very helpful in relieving the symptoms of some minor illnesses or injuries:

Arnica – Used medicinally for at least 500 years, arnica is great for relieving swelling, bruising and minor muscle soreness. Applied externally, arnica gel or lotion is used for a wide range of conditions, including injuries such as sprains, joint pain and burn treatment. Taken internally as a homeopathic medicine, arnica montana helps to relieve sore muscles, bruises and trauma caused by overexertion or injury, and is often recommended before surgery to control bruising, reduce swelling and promote recovery.

Ginger – For centuries ginger has been used medicinally to reduce inflammation and to relieve an upset stomach, nausea and motion sickness. In addition to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, ginger has gas-relieving and antispasmodic benefits, which help to soothe digestive upset. Ginger may be used as a tea or taken in capsule or crystallized form.

Lavender Essential Oil – Because lavender is so fragrant it is commonly used in sachets and personal care products, but lavender is more than just an aromatic herb. It is well known for its natural anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antiseptic, antimicrobial and antibacterial properties. Applied topically, lavender can help to reduce itching, swelling and redness, such as caused by minor wounds, eczema or insect bites. When massaged into the skin or placed in bath water, lavender oil can help to relieve sore and tense muscles, joint tenderness and rheumatism. When inhaled, lavender is calming and stress relieving, soothing to both the body and the mind.

Colloidal silver – Colloidal silver’s safety and efficacy is an ongoing debate, even though it has been used for thousands of years. Before the advent of antibiotics, colloidal silver was the standard treatment for all pathogenic diseases. It is routinely used in hospital settings as an anti-infection burn remedy and to prevent potentially lethal MRSA infections. While not endorsed by the medical community, when used alternatively colloidal silver has been shown to safely destroy bacteria and viruses, eliminate fungal infections and to be effective against antibiotic-resistant pathogens.

Bee Propolis – Found in many beauty and skin care products, bee propolis is a natural antiseptic that is believed to contain as many as 300 active compounds. Used by folk medicine practitioners for thousands of years to treat abscesses, heal wounds and fight infections, bee propolis has anti-microbial, antifungal and antiviral properties. Propolis has been found to help heal burns, treat parasites, reduce inflammation and boost immunity. In the natural medicine industry, propolis is known as “the great healer.”

Rescue Remedy – This homeopathic remedy by Bach Flower Remedies was created to help provide calm and focus during times of crisis and when traumatized, shocked, panicked or stressed. Actually a blend of 5 flower essences, Rescue Remedy helps to keep us grounded during emergency or immediate situations. Keep some on hand for your pets as well to help them through their own stressful situations, such as during thunderstorms, fireworks or a visit to the vet.

Oscillococcinum – Keep this on hand during flu and cold season, as when taken at the first signs of illness this homeopathic formula helps to relieve symptoms associated with the flu, such as body aches, headache, fever, chills and fatigue. Clinical studies have shown that this safe, non-drowsy formula works naturally with your body to help reduce the duration and severity of flu-like symptoms.

Tea Tree Essential Oil – Native to Australia, tea tree oil has been useful as a cure-all medicine since ancient times. Meant for topical application only, tea tree oil is an effective antiseptic that can be applied directly to wounds, sores or insect bites to protect from infections. Tea tree oil is an efficient insect repellent, deterring mosquitoes, fleas, lice and flies. Proven effective against bacterial and fungal infections, tea tree oil’s anti-inflammatory and stimulant properties help to speed the healing process by encouraging blood flow to a specific area and increasing the rate of new tissue and cellular growth.

Echinacea – One of the most popular herbal formulas, this Native American medicinal plant contains active substances that can help boost immune function, reduce inflammation and help the body fight infections, including the common cold. Echinacea has been shown to help reduce symptoms relating to the common cold and upper respiratory tract infections and it is also believed to attack yeast, fungal and bacterial infections.

Senna – This popular herbal laxative is generally safe and well tolerated and, when used appropriately, provides relief of occasional irregularity and constipation. Senna is not intended for long term use but provides gentle, overnight relief when needed, and many find it extremely helpful when your system is out of sorts, especially when traveling.

Before modern medicine, natural remedies were highly valued and passed down through generations. While there are many other widely used alternative medicines available, these are the ones I make sure to always have on hand. Although not a substitute for conventional medicine when needed, folk remedies can provide safe, effective non-toxic relief of uncomfortable symptoms related to minor injuries, illnesses and infections.

References:
Arnica. https://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/arnica
Ginger: Health Benefits and Nutritional Information. http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/265990.php
Lavender. https://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/lavender
7 Health Benefits of Bee Propolis. http://www.greenmedinfo.com/blog/7-health-benefits-bee-propolis

Featured Product – Rescue® Remedy by Bach Flower

bachSusanBiconBy Susan Brown
Health & Wellness Editor
 

Born in England in 1886, Dr. Edward Bach studied medicine at University College Hospital in London and went on to obtain a Diploma in Public Health at Cambridge University. After many years of working as a surgeon, casualty medical officer, bacteriologist and immunology researcher, he developed an interest in homeopathy and began to develop alternative therapies. His quiet dissatisfaction with orthodox medicine led to new herbal remedies that addressed illness as a disharmony between the mind and the body. Through great personal suffering and sacrifice, Dr. Bach completed his life’s work and unfortunately passed away at the age of 50 years. To this day, his world renowned Bach Flower Essences aid in the relief of emotional and physical distress to allow the body to unblock and access its own natural healing potential. His system of 38 Flower Remedies have been a trusted name for more than 80 years and are safe for both people and pets of all ages.

Rescue Remedy
Rescue® Remedy – Likely the most well known of all Bach Flower Essences, Rescue Remedy provides calm during a crisis, trauma or stressful situation. Rescue Remedy is designed to help deal with immediate problems and can be used anytime there is a need for a calming influence.
 
 
 
Rescue® Remedy Pet
Rescue® Remedy Pet – Add 2 drops of this alcohol-free essence to your pet’s water bowl to relieve anxiety, fear or trauma. This product provides appropriate relief when your pet has a fear of thunder, is showing signs of distress or has been through a traumatic situation. Safe, gentle, alcohol-free, veterinarian approved formula.  
 
 
Rescue Remedy Sleep
Rescue® Remedy Sleep – For those occasional sleepless nights, this product provides natural and fast acting relief that calms a restless mind and reduces repetitive thoughts and stress-related insomnia. Awake refreshed after a night of restorative sleep with this non-habit forming remedy.
 
 
 
Rescue® Remedy Kids
 
Rescue® Remedy Kids – This alcohol-free formula made just for kids helps children deal with everyday stressors, anxious situations or big life changes such as the loss of a family pet. Safe, natural, non-drowsy formula.
 
 
 Rescue Energy
Rescue® Energy – Stimulant-free Rescue Energy improves the body’s ability to handle stress and strengthens the natural energy reserves. Key active ingredients give you a needed energy boost especially during times of mental or physical exhaustion.
 
 
 
Rescue Cream
Rescue® Cream – This quick absorbing, intensive moisturizer helps to soothe and heal dry, irritated or damaged skin and is especially beneficial for external traumas, rashes, bruises, cuts, sprains and diaper rash. Rescue® Remedy Gel provides soothing relief for aches and pains and muscle soreness or stiffness.