Dr. Edward Bach, the originator of flower essence therapy, categorized his 38 original essences using the 12-7-19 method: the Twelve Healers, the Seven Helpers, and the Second Nineteen. This article explores the role and benefits of the Seven Helpers.
Dr. Bach often prescribed one or more of the Seven Helper essences for patients who weren’t responding adequately to the Twelve Healers. The Twelve Healers (Impatiens, Gentian, Mimulus, Clematis, Agrimony, Chicory, Vervain, Centaury, Scleranthus, Water Violet, Rock Rose, and Cerato) address imbalances in twelve archetypal personality types. Healing can begin through the vibrational transformation of these imbalances. However, some individuals didn’t respond to the Twelve Healers, leading to the discovery of the Seven Helpers.
The Seven Helpers target deeply rooted negative vibrational patterns that can obscure the primary personality type. For example, Olive is used for exhaustion from healing or life events, where fatigue masks underlying personality traits. Similarly, chronic states can hinder healing. Someone needing Mimulus for fear might also benefit from Olive to gain the strength to address their issues. While essences can be administered individually, Wild Oat can be used if a patient isn’t responding to other essences. According to Dr. Bach, ‘If ever a case does not respond to treatment, give either Holly or Wild Oat, and it will be obvious which of the other remedies may be required. In all cases where the patient is of the active, intense type, give Holly. In patients who are of the weak, despondent type, give Wild Oat.’
The Flower Essence Repertory expands the application of these essences beyond health conditions, supporting personal and spiritual growth. This wider use is encouraged, as flower essences can aid in transforming tendencies even without serious health risks. The following descriptions of the Seven Helper flower essences maintain a broad perspective to reach a wider audience.
It’s important to remember that flower essence therapy isn’t a substitute for professional medical care. While illness may have emotional roots that flower essences can address, self-prescription should not be the sole treatment.
Here are the Seven Helpers:
* **Olive:** For profound fatigue after worry, illness, grief, or struggle. It helps restore energy by reconnecting to a universal energy source, uniting the spirit and body.
* **Gorse:** For hopelessness and resignation due to discouragement. It restores hope and a brighter outlook.
* **Oak:** For over-striving, even when detrimental. It balances determination with grace, allowing for rest when needed.
* **Vine:** For those who see their way as the only way. It softens domineering personalities, allowing understanding of other perspectives and acceptance of support.
* **Heather:** For self-obsessed individuals seeking attention due to loneliness and emotional pain. It fosters connection to the Higher Self, promoting emotional self-sufficiency and genuine relationships.
* **Rock Water:** For those who are overly hard on themselves, limiting joy and flexibility. It opens the soul to the energies of the plant realm.
* **Wild Oat:** For those lacking a sense of purpose. It aligns individuals with their true calling, fostering inner light and supporting health.
These Seven Helpers, along with the Twelve Healers, can support transformation of many emotional states. It’s important to remain open to other flower essences that may be more precisely suited to individual needs. However, the Healer and Helper essences are an excellent starting point for those seeking an effective collection of remedies.