Bach left a very simple system of determining which essence or essences will be useful for us. If a person was discouraged, this may indicate a need for Gentian, which restores hope. If indecisive, a need for Scleranthus and so forth. For all negative states of mind, the essence chosen reflects the positive, uplifting aspect necessary to bring the person into balance. Look in the reference section for books that describe the essences and their use.
Flower Essences are available in most health food stores and by mail order.
They come in small amber glass bottles known as a stock bottle, or Mother Tincture. You may use the essence right out of the bottle. Or you can get even more mileage by using a few drops of the Mother Tincture to make a dosage bottle for yourself. For this, purchase a 1-ounce empty, sterile, amber glass bottle. You can use natural vegetable glycerin, but this will not preserve the essence for long.