Homeopathic practitioners’ experiences regarding their use of Bach flower remedies in practice

M.Tech. (Homoeopathy)Abstract: Bach flower remedies are a set of 38 individual remedies developed by Dr Edward Bach in the 1930’s. These remedies are categorized as complementary medicines, and focus mainly on the restoration of mental and emotional balance. While these remedies are available to the public at selected health shops, they are frequently prescribed by homeopathic practitioners. Research studies done on the effects of Bach flower remedies are limited and have shown conflicting results. The extent of the use amongst homeopaths as well as their experiences leading to their use has not yet been explored. The investigation into Bach flower remedies from a homeopathic perspective is of use to homeopathic practitioners, educators and researchers. The aim of this study is to explore and describe the experiences of homeopathic practitioners in the Gauteng area who are making use of Bach flower remedies by means of individual interviews with information rich participants. This qualitative phenomenological study serves to provide insight into the experiences of homeopathic practitioners who make use of Bach flower remedies in the context of professional homeopathic practice in South Africa. Registered homeopathic practitioners in the Gauteng area with experience in using Bach flower remedies were recruited for the study by means of snowball sampling and contacted via telephone or email and provided with information about the study. Practitioners who were willing to take part had to meet the inclusion criteria as well as consent to both participation and the audio recording of their interview before commencing. The audio recordings allow for data to be accurately captured and transcribed, followed by an analysis for any trends and themes. There were fourteen practitioners who participated in this study. Interviews were steered by one central question, “Describe your experiences using Bach flower remedies in homeopathic practice”. Data was coded using three coding methods, as described by Johnny Saldaña (2013). These were grammatical methods, elemental methods and affective methods. Five themes emerged, these being: value in practice, remedy application in practice, practitioner perceptions, education and Bach flower remedies outside of homeopathic practice. This study explored the practitioners’ experiences and found that in general, practitioners have had positive experiences with Bach flower remedies. Participants acknowledged the safety and value that these remedies have in practice and perceive them to be a useful adjunct to their treatment..