Dr Bach’s crisis formula

The traditional crisis remedy

…is the most famous of the remedies, but in fact is not ‘a remedy’ at all. Instead it’s a blend of five different remedies:

This mix was created by Dr Bach to deal with emergencies and crises – the moments when there is no time to make a proper individual selection of remedies. It can be used to help us get through any stressful moments, from last-minute exam nerves to the aftermath of an accident.

The best-known make of the crisis formula is sold under the brand name Rescue Remedy – but every remedy maker has its own version of this formula.

The crisis formula is designed to help deal with immediate problems. If you are working through an underlying problem – or if you need rescuing every day – you will find a longer-term solution by selecting a personal blend of remedies.

The cream version

…of the crisis formula contains the same five remedies as the liquid, with the addition of Crab Apple, the cleansing remedy. This formula dates from the early 1960s and was put together by Dr Bach’s assistant, Nora Weeks.

The cream is also an emergency combination, and a convenient way of applying the crisis formula externally to bumps and bruises of all kinds.

Most remedy makers produce a version of the cream. Again, the best known brand is sold under the name Rescue.

Other premixed formulas

Some remedy manufacturers offer premixed combinations that claim to treat specific problems such as sleeplessness, tiredness, exam stress and even weight and relationship issues.

Be wary of these products. The traditional crisis formula has shown over time that it contains something helpful for almost any emergency. The same isn’t true of situation- and symptom-specific mixes. They tend to be ineffective because they are not chosen for the individual.

For example, insomnia may be caused by many remedy states, including those associated with VervainAspenMimulusAgrimony and Red Chestnut. Yet the most popular of the premixed blends against sleeplessness contains none of these remedies.

The only effective way to deal with specific non-emergency situations is to make a personal selection.