I have been a great admirer of Dr Edward Bach for many years. From the time I wrote my first book back in the 1980s I have emphasised the fact that every plant, every leaf and every root has a message.

As long as we learn to recognise the message and to see the characteristics and signatures of plants and flowers, we will be able to use them to help ourselves.

Dr Bach was often misunderstood when he started promoting his views on flower remedies back in the 1930s. Today, we have different problems. The new millennium brings with it new challenges in our environment and the quest to preserve our health.

A few years ago, I decided to take a fresh look at the healing potential of flowers, having become aware that a new approach was needed. The result was the combination now known as Emergency Essence. I felt that this could make a valuable contribution towards dealing with today’s emotional problems.

As I have said many times in my books, Nature cures and in Nature, everything is in balance. Imbalance is caused by man. Emergency Essence has been a tremendous help to many in awkward situations. The widespread interest in this has encouraged me to look further into other compositions – the result of this is a range of essences which I have made available.

Flower essences are liquid extracts of flowers in a base of grape alcohol. They can be taken orally and have the ability to influence the emotions. In turn, they have an impact on the health of the whole body.

Although flowers have been used in healthcare for many centuries, the use of flower essences to influence specific emotions and attitudes was developed and refined in the 1930s. Since then, essences have gained increasing recognition all over the world for their significant contribution to holistic healthcare. Today, essences are made from flowers from all corners of the globe.

I was once told that Dr Bach was inspired by an old book entitled ‘The Language of Flowers’. Some time ago, I came across a copy in an antique shop. It was old and falling to bits, but the message is as clear today as it ever was.

In the introduction, the writer of this book says that ‘when we look at the language and poetry of flowers, we look at the gift to the young and sensitive or to all ages, rejoicing in what Nature has to offer’. The book contains poems about many flowers ranging from dandelions to chamomile.

Even the simple primrose is mentioned as helping all ills of life. Hundreds of plants, flowers and herbs are suggested for different problems.

These plants, flowers and herbs are a gift from our Creator who has signed them with characteristics that reveal their use.