Essences are very versatile andmay be used or taken in a variety of ways.  These are the most common:

Underthe tongue:  the classic method.  4 to 7 drops are placed underthe tongue and held there for a period of time before being swallowed. In working with clients, I incorporate the use of an affirmation and visualizationwith this method.

Increams applied topically:  helpful for some skin conditions,muscle pain, and also a valid way of taking essences for any purpose. Essences combine well with essential oils in topical applications. 

Appliedtopically to chakras, meridians, or Bach Flower Body Map areas:  tohelp balance a particular chakra or meridian, release a  blockage,or work with a particular problem or issue.  This is perhaps one ofthe newest areas of exploration.  Clickhere for more info on the body maps. 

Inthe bath:  for total immersion, stress, exhaustion, musclepain.  Five Flower Formula is a good all-purpose essence for addingto the bath (this is the Healing Herbs brand of Rescue Remedy). 

Mistinga room:  to change the energy in a room or to administer essencesto a group of people (such as for stress or conflict among people, at lecturesif it is mid-afternoon and people are falling asleep, in-between clientsto clear the energy, for a group taking a test, etc.)

Mistingone's aura:  since flower essences work at the level of theenergy field, this is a valid way to administer essences.

Essencesshould be taken over a longer period of time, at least four times per day,for chronic or long-standing problems.  It is estimated that, forevery year that a problem has been in existence, one month of flower essencetherapy is indicated (but sometimes there are surprises!).  Typically,vibrational essences work very gently, deeply, and slowly with issues thatare deeply embedded in one's character, and it is recommended to take themfor at least three months before assessing how helpful they are for youat a particular time.  Keeping a journal on a daily or weekly basisis recommended because changes can occur so gradually and naturally thatone isn't aware of what has changed until one looks back, and a journalis an excellent tool for keeping track of one's progress.  Using essencesin addition to practicing or being engaged in other therapeutic approachesor disciplines that foster growth and awareness is most beneficial andmost efficient for long-standing emotional issues. 

First flower:  Macrocarpa is helpfulfor those who are exhausted, drained, or worn out (courtesy of Ian White,Australian Bush Flower Essences).

Second flower:  Explorer's gentianbrings rejuvenation when one feels depleted, weary, or discouraged (courtesyof FES).

Third flower:  Columbine helps oneto discover one's uniqueness (courtesy of FES).

Fourth flower:  Green cross gentianhelps those who experience doubt, discouragement or disillusion regardingfollowing one's higher destiny for humanity and the planet (courtesy ofFES).

Fifth flower:  Tall yellow top isvery helpful for depression, alienation, and isolation (courtesy of IanWhite, Australian Bush Flower Essences)