Cat & Dog - Flower Essences

What are flower essences?

Flower essence therapy or flower therapy was developed by a human doctor, Edward Bach, during the 1930s. During his years in practice Dr. Bach developed the belief that people could be grouped based upon their emotional states, and that these emotions were the root cause of many of their diseases.

In his quest to find a herbal therapy for each group, Edward Bach turned to extracts of various species of flowers. Flower essences are thus extracts of flowers, each of which is believed to help balance a specific emotional trait or personality type in humans. Although derived from plants, flower essences are, however, not herbal medicines in the way they work. They are said to work on the emotional levels of the body, energetically rather than through any biochemical means. Vets are exploring whether flower essences can likewise to be used to relieve stress and anxiety in animals.

How much experience is there with the use of flower essences in pets?

There is more clinical experience with flower essences in people than in pets, although flower essences have now been used for many years in pets.

What species of animals are being treated regularly with flower essences?

Any pet can be treated with flower essences; the most commonly treated animals are dogs and cats. Being incredibly safe, they can be used on very ill animals and also work well with conventional medicines. Flower essences do not contain any chemical substances except for a small percentage of alcohol which is used as a preservative.

How much research has been conducted on this supplement?

Flower essences have been ‘scientifically’ researched to a very limited extent but outcomes have not been generally supported. A recent retrospective case analysis of hundreds of case reports, rather than controlled research suggests a positive benefit. Most recommendations for use in animals are based on clinical experiences with humans and animals. Because of their safety and low cost, flower essences are being applied in human medical settings to the treatment of attention-deficit-hyperactivity disorder in children and to relieve stress and exhaustion associated with childbirth in women.

Rescue Remedy is a Bach flower remedy. It is used extensively on humans and animals. Anecdotal reports suggest it can be very helpful.

How can my pet benefit from flower essences?

Any type of stress, anxiety, fear or insecurity in pets may potentially be reduced by the use of flower essence.

How successful are flower essences?

They can be very successful in reducing mild stress and anxiety in pets. More severe anxiety conditions are generally refractory to flower essences. The most well-known essence is called Rescue Remedy. It is the only combination remedy made by Dr. Bach. It consists of the essences of 5 flowers (cherry plum, clematis, impatiens, rock rose and Star of Bethlehem).

Rescue Remedy has many uses and is recommended for any stressful or traumatic event, such as seizures, separation anxiety, a trip to the veterinary surgery or grooming parlour, and thunderstorm phobias.

How safe are flower essences?

Flower essences are very safe and there are no reported side effects.

Where do I obtain flower essences and do I need a prescription?

A prescription is not needed to buy flower essences. Please talk to one of the vets if you would like to use these products with your pet. We would be happy to advise.