Homemade Flower Essences

How to Preserve the Flowers Intrinsic Qualities for Comfort and Balance

Flowers generally blossom in the garden once a year.  The human spirit is uplifted by their fragrance and color. A flower essence captures the intrinsic qualities that may bring relief and comfort to someone struggling with emotional uncertainties.

What is an essence?

Plants grow from the earth, their roots absorb water and nutrients as they reach for the sun. A flower essence is the blossom of the plant preserved in a liquid state. Essences are made by using the four elements of nature. The Earth, Air, Fire and Water will draw out the healing properties contained within the petals. An essence provides a gentle stimulation to the body when taken internally, nourishing and restoring balance.

Steps to make a flower essence

Set a clear glass of water in a protected location where it will get direct sunlight for several hours. Select blossoms from the plant and place gently on the waters surface. The flowers may be picked with sharp scissors. It’s generally suggested to not touch the petals if possible. Leave in the sun for two to four hours. Remove the blossoms by pouring the water through a stainless steel sieve. or slotted spoon. Pour the water into an amber or blue glass bottle 3/4 full. The remaining 1/4 will be a better quality brandy to preserve the liquid indefinitely. Label the bottle with the contents and date of creation.

How to take an essence

Flower essences may be taken with a glass dropper directly on the skin or tongue. The drops can be added to water and sipped. If a person is alcohol sensitive, glycerin may be substituted as a preservative.

Properties of a flower essence

The flower in this photo is cinquefoil.  While not a common herb, it contains wonderful medicinal and even magical properties.

I completed a year long herbal studies program with Sage Mountain Sanctuary and Rosemary Gladstar. Course completion required an extensive project. These notes are from my materia medica:

Field Project: Beneficial Herbs in the Garden 

Flower Essence: Prepared a flower essence to help with the energy of self love, appreciation and acceptance.

This perennial may have been planted or inherited when the property was acquired. However it arrived, this year it is a prolific bloomer and beautiful in the garden bed. I decided to make a tincture and flower essence largely based on the magical, mystical qualities of the plant. The blossoms are tiny. The leaves are five fringed and resemble a human hand. In the doctrine of signatures, this may represent giving the person a hand in life.

A fresh leaf in the pocket helps to establish healthy boundaries in all aspects of life. Protection “magic” to draw in luck and prosperity and keep out evil spirits.