I took Rescue Remedy Night liquid melts every night for a week to see if they would help me sleep better. I also took the standard Rescue Remedy for a week during the daytime to see what effect that version would have.
Bach’s Rescue Remedy is an unusual alternative medicine that’s widely used around the world. However, reviews of scientific studies have found that it’s no better than a placebo (more on that in the evidence section further in the article).
Despite the lack of research evidence, it’s produced on a commercial level and even sold in supermarkets alongside established medicines.
In this article, I’ll be describing my experience of taking the two versions of Rescue Reemedy, and also when I came back to it seven years later.
After that, I’ll look at what the research evidence says about Bach Flower Remedies, and how it’s supposed to work exactly.
My experience
Small capsules with no smell or taste
The first thing to note is that the Rescue Remedy Night capsules are tiny, as you can see in the photo. They are quite fiddly to keep in your fingers, so people with finger sensitivity issues might find them a bit awkward.
The capsules have no discernible smell or taste. Compared to over the counter sleep aids containing smelly valerian, such as Sominex Herbal, this was very welcome. I also prefer the bland taste to gummy sleep aids, like ZzzQuil Pure Zzzs, which tend to have too much sugar for my liking.
I like the fact that they dissolve on your tongue, which will appeal to people who don’t like swallowing pills. Compared to some of the larger sleep aids, such as the oversized Physician’s Choice capsules, this makes them very easy to take.
Other than the small size then, the Rescue Remedy Night capsules are very convenient to take in comparison to many other sleep aids I’ve tried.
How I judge the effectiveness of sleep aids
I’ll be the first to admit that there is a lot of subjectivity in testing and writing about sleep aids. I can’t take them into a sleep clinic to get hooked up to all their gold standard testing gear, so I’m left to my own observations, along with the data from my wearable sleep tracker.
I always keep a manual sleep diary, which I write notes in when I wake up. And for this particular test, I also used my Fitbit Versa’s sleep tracking to get an idea of how I slept.
At the end of the day though, it can be very difficult to determine whether a sleep aid actually works, whether the placebo effect played a part, or whether it worked better than you think but you just didn’t notice the subtle effects.
Long story short – take my experience with a pinch of salt, because it’s just one person’s observations.
How I slept when taking Rescue Remedy Night
I would have loved to be able to say that the Rescue Remedy Night had a positive effect on my sleep, but I didn’t notice a significant improvement compared to how I was sleeping in the days leading up to trying it.
When I take a new sleep aid, I like to lie in bed reading for a good chunk of time (40 to 60 minutes) to see if I notice any drowsiness or other new sensations.
I didn’t feel particularly drowsy after taking the Rescue Remedy Night, and it certainly didn’t knock me out in the same way a strong pharmaceutical sleep aid would.
Having said that, I believe I slept reasonably well on four of the seven nights the week I took it, which made it a fairly normal week for me. It’s not the case that I slept well every night though, or that I fell asleep quickly after taking the Rescue Remedy Night.
As for my sleep tracker data, it showed the same results. Four nights were reasonably good, and the other three were slightly down on my nightly average over a longer period of time. And it didn’t appear to show that I was falling asleep any faster than normal, or any faster than the previous week in which I didn’t take any sleep aids.
So the reality is that I can’t say either way whether it helped or not. I got the same amount of sleep as the week before, with no noticeable improvements that I could observe, and no change in my sleep tracker data that would suggest I was sleeping any better.
No side effects
One good point about the Rescue Remedy Night capsules is that I had no noticeable side effects. I often get side effects from antihistamine sleep aids, such as a fuzzy head in the morning, dry mouth, headache or vivid dreams.
I was pleased to find that I had absolutely no side effects from Rescue Remedy, as it’s always a nuisance when you feel groggy in the morning after taking a sleep aid.
Stress levels
I can’t say I felt any less stressed in the first week I took the Rescue Remedy. No sense of untouchable calm descended upon me, and I continued to find the main factors in my life that had been stressing me out equally stressful.
Normal Rescue Remedy
After the first week, I decided to try
Once again, I can’t say that I noticed anything different though, either to my sleep or how stressed I felt.
Seven years later – a repeat test
I first wrote this article in 2015, and seven years later in 2022 I decided to buy another pack of Rescue Night to see if it would be any different.
Sadly not. Once again, they didn’t appear to make me feel sleepy, and didn’t help me feel any less stressed – not as far as I could tell anyway. Maybe I’ve just immune to the placebo effect…
My conclusion
Rescue Remedy appears to do nothing for me personally. I’ve tried the standard Rescue Remedy and Rescue Night – twice, seven years apart – and had no results that suggest it was worth spending my money on (I bought them and didn’t receive them for free to review).
That said, the fact that they are so easy to take and didn’t give me any side effects raises one interesting point: if you are the kind of person who is susceptible to the placebo effect to the extent that you’ll sleep better after taking something you believe will help, then you could arguably do a lot worse than the comparatively gentle ingredients contained in the tiny Rescue Remedy capsules.
I almost wish I were that kind of person, as I could do with a stand-by sleep aid that doesn’t leave me feeling groggy the next day!
Many people do say it helps them, and that’s great. Sites like Amazon have many customer reviews saying it helps, there are plenty of comments at the end of this article from people saying it helps, and I have a couple of friends who have tried to convince me I’m a cynical skeptic and that it does work!
So I’ll leave you to make your own mind up about Rescue Remedy, but stand by my personal opinion that there are more effective options out there for me.
What evidence is there that Rescue Remedy works?
In 2010, British researchers published a research paper reviewing clinical trials of Bach Flower Remedies. They analyzed six placebo-controlled studies and found no support that it works, saying in their paper:
All placebo-controlled trials failed to demonstrate efficacy. It is concluded that the most reliable clinical trials do not show any differences between flower remedies and placebos.
Edzard Ernst
Furthermore, researchers in Austria came to a similar conclusion in their 2009 study, saying:
Most of the available evidence regarding the efficacy and safety of BFRs (Bach Flower Remedies) has a high risk of bias… Our analysis of the four controlled trials of BFRs for examination anxiety and ADHD indicates that there is no evidence of benefit compared with a placebo intervention.
Thaler et. al.
The same researchers also go on to conclude that the current evidence suggests Bach Flower Remedies are no more effective for psychological issues than a placebo, but are probably safe.
However, they caution that even this conclusion is made with “a high level of uncertainty” due to the lack of methodologically sound trials.
No evidence it helps with cancer
On a final note about evidence, if you’re considering taking Rescue Remedy while undergoing cancer treatment, I highly recommend reading the article about essence therapy at cancerresearch.org.
They point out that although essence therapy is safe to use, “Essences do not prevent, control, or cure cancer or any other physical condition.”
Having been through cancer myself, I’m very aware of the many alternative treatments out there. While I think it’s a good idea to find additional ways to help you through the journey, I also think it’s important to pay attention to what the experts say.
Why do so many people say it helps them?
With a lack of peer-reviewed conclusive evidence that Rescue Remedy works, why is it that so many people say it helps them?
At the time of writing, there are 8,153 customer ratings on Amazon.com for the standard Rescue Remedy dropper, scoring an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars. 77% are five star ratings, and just 4% are one star. Some clearly love it, calling it “Absolutely amazing”, whereas others are distinctly less impressed, calling it “Snake oil”.
Interestingly, Rescue Night scores slightly less, with 4.2 out of 5 stars from 4,470 customer ratings. 8% gave it one star this time, so I wonder if people have higher expectations when it comes to their sleep rather than daytime use?
Since I first published this article, many readers have shared both positive and negative experiences in the comments below (thank you – please keep them coming!). Some interesting positive comments are from people who found it helps their dogs. If a dog doesn’t know it’s getting a medicine, how can it be the placebo effect?
I spoke to a dog trainer to get his opinion about this. His view is that it’s likely the owner is transmitting their own placebo effect – the dog is likely to feel calmer when the owner is too.
Further information
Ingredients
The ingredients of the Rescue Night version that I described in my experience above are:
- Prunus cerasifera HPUS (Crab Apple)
- Clematis vitalba HPUS (Clematis)
- Impatiens glandulifera HPUS (Impatiens)
- Helianthemum nummularium HPUS (Rock Rose)
- Ornithogalum umbellatum HPUS (Star of Bethlehem)
- Aesculus hippocastanum HPUS (White Chestnut)
- Carnauba wax
- Coconut oil
- Gelatin (fish)
- Grapeseed oil
- Orange oil
- Natural vanilla flavor
- Pectin
- Sorbitol
The standard Rescue Remedy, which I took after my first week’s test of the Night version, contains the following ingredients:
- Impatiens glandulifera HPUS (Impatiens)
- Ornithogalum umbellatum HPUS (Star of Bethlehem)
- Prunus Cerasifera (Cherry Plum)
- Helianthemum nummularium HPUS (Rock Rose)
- Clematis vitalba HPUS (Clematis)
- 27% grape-based brandy
Note that Rescue Remedy contains alcohol, but Rescue Night does not. Rescue Plus is another version that doesn’t contain alcohol.
Possible side effects
When I bought mine, there was no information included about possible side effects to expect. My view then is that if you feel unwell after taking Rescue Remedy, you should stop taking it and seek medical advice immediately.
If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, thinking of giving it to a child, or taking any other medication, I always think it’s wise to consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking any sleep aid.
What is Rescue Remedy?
Rescue Remedy is the most famous of many remedies sold under the brand Bach Flower Remedies. They were developed by Edward Bach, an English homeopath, in the 1930s.
According to information on the website Rescueremedy.com (not a sponsored link – none are in this article), Rescue Remedy isn’t technically a remedy, but a blend of five different remedies. The idea is that it’s a one-size-fits-all solution when you’re in need of some help with stress or anxiety.
And that’s where I think the name ‘Rescue Remedy’ itself is genius. It’s interesting to read discussions about it on sites like the mumsnet.com forums. You’ll find people admitting they were attracted to the name or the tagline of ‘comfort and reassurance’.
Whether you have an important event, like your driving test or a key exam, or are just in need of a little help with the stresses of daily life, Rescue Remedy is on hand to help you get through it.
When you look at one of the several websites which use the brand name Bach Remedies, you’ll find information about how the individual ingredients are supposed to help.
If you search online, you’ll find more than one website that looks like it could be the official Bach Remedies website. To be honest, it’s so confusing, I’m not even sure if there is one official website, or several!
Looking around, I’ve found some of the explanations to be very esoteric. I consider myself to be fairly open-minded person, but I find some explanations lack a bit of substance, such as this excerpt for Cherry Plum on bachflower.com:
For those who fear losing control of their thoughts and actions and doing things they know are bad for them or which they consider wrong. Teaches trust in one’s spontaneous wisdom and the courage to follow one’s path.
I’ll be the first to admit that I’m a little cynical at times, but I try my best to keep an open mind to counteract it. Still, this explanation left me wondering exactly how a Rescue Remedy capsule would ‘teach me to trust in my own wisdom’.
Explanations like that feel more like unused segments of the Matrix movie script than an explanation for how a health product bought in a supermarket would help me.
How exactly does Rescue Remedy work?
After reading about the individual ingredients, I needed to know more. And that same website offers an interesting account:
The Bach Flower Remedies…gently restore the balance between mind and body by casting out negative emotions such as fear, worry, hatred and indecision which interfere with the equilibrium of the being as a whole. The Bach Flower Remedies allow peace and happiness to return to the sufferer so that the body is free to heal itself.
And that’s it. In the FAQ section, this is the full explanation for how Rescue Remedy works its wonders.
How Bach himself worked
To find out more, I turned to the Wikipedia entry and several other websites with articles about the origins of Bach’s flower remedies and how they work.
Here’s a curious quote explaining how Bach himself actually worked:
Rather than using research based on scientific methods, Bach derived his flower remedies intuitively and based on his perceived psychic connections to the plants. If Bach felt a negative emotion, he would hold his hand over different plants, and if one alleviated the emotion, he would ascribe the power to heal that emotional problem to that plant.
So the bottom line, apparently, is that Rescue Remedy works by transmitting the flower’s energy or vibrational nature to you. This positive energy can then help heal conditions which involve negative energy, such as anxiety or stress.
How Bach Remedies are made
One of the most useful sources of information I’ve found about Bach Flower Remedies is the official Bach Center in Mount Vernon, England. The center still exists in the place where the remedies used to be made in the past by Dr. Bach.
They explain how they used to make the Rescue Remedy at the center where they grow the plants, but demand outgrew capacity and they partnered with a company called Nelsons, which is now responsible for bottling. That’s also why some of the Bach websites selling the remedies online are run by Nelsons.
The Bach Center now focuses on education instead, and they have some interesting explanations for how Bach Remedies are made on the Bach Center website. They explain how there are two methods: the sun method and the boiling method.
Both involve transferring the plants’ energy to water using heat. The energised water is filtered to create a mother tincture, which is in turn diluted further to create the product that ends up in the customer’s hands.
If you’d like to learn more about the Remedies, I recommend taking a look at their website. They have information about all 38 Bach Flower Remedies discovered by Dr. Bach. If you’re in the UK, you can even visit the center if you book in advance.
Final thoughts
My personal experience means I’m not totally convinced by Rescue Remedy, but I can see why it appeals to many people. There’s a very simple reason why major supermarkets keep stocking it: people keep buying it.
Personally, I’m a believer in the power of the placebo effect. I know from personal experience that chamomile tea relaxes me, despite only limited evidence that it has strong sedative properties.
I think in that case it’s partly the relaxing ritual which goes with it. Simply taking time out helps me relax. Could it be that a similar thing happens with Rescue Remedy?
Perhaps by planting the idea in your mind that you’re going to be ‘rescued’ and receive a feeling of ‘comfort and reassurance’, your mind and body will meet you half way.
Ultimately, I think it boils down to personal belief and choice. The universe is a mysterious place, so I don’t think there’s any harm in trying Rescue Remedy yourself. And if the placebo effect works for you, with no side effects and minimal expense, then who am I to convince you not to try it.
Your opinion
I’d love to hear your opinion about Rescue Remedy. Have you tried it before? Did it have any effect? Please leave a comment below with your thoughts about it.
I think the mystery of the Bach blends is due mainly to the endless variables within everyone. It’s such an old product, and its long-standing success indicates it’s not just snake oil. Of course, that doesn’t guarantee it will work for everyone. The few ‘official’ tests I’ve come across seem less than rigorous. Some powerful drugs don’t work universally, and people’s reactions to substances, like alcohol, can vary widely. For instance, I knew someone who could walk a straight line even when drunk, and a famous magician couldn’t hypnotize him the same night he managed to bend keys on live television. We’re all unique, and at times, we tend to underestimate these differences. What stresses one person out might have no effect on another. Thus, medicines and remedies can yield diverse results based on individual uniqueness.
Now, about my experience yesterday:
I wanted to comment earlier, but life got in the way. So here I am. Lifelong anxiety disorders and over a decade of kidney disease have been quite challenging for me. Recently, iron poisoning compounded my health issues. At fifty, even minor stresses can be detrimental to my health. My kidney issues can largely be attributed to the three S’s: Sugar, Stress, and Sodium. Essentially, I’m a mess, frequently on the edge. I’ve avoided drugs my whole life, including prescription ones. My trust in doctors waned after a bad experience with iron pills. Magnesium has been my primary remedy, although it works inconsistently.
A recent issue with our well pump became a major stressor. While I tried to remain calm and even consoled my visibly distressed husband, the reality hit me later. The stress manifested as intense kidney pain. After trying my usual calming techniques and magnesium, I recalled the “Rescue Remedy” I had purchased a month ago. I was somewhat skeptical, but I tried it. Surprisingly, it provided significant relief in a matter of minutes. When the pain tried to creep back later, another dose did the trick.
In reading various testimonials, it’s clear people’s responses to the Bach blends are diverse. This could be due to differences in diet, medications, or even our unique energies. If the Bach remedies work on the principle of flower energies, our personal energies might play a crucial role. I’ll continue my experiments with Rescue Remedy and hope to share more findings. This discussion platform is excellent, so thank you for creating it.
Hi Ambrose,
Thank you for sharing such a detailed and personal account of your experiences. It’s clear that you’ve been through a lot and have given these remedies a lot of thought and consideration.
I also think everyone’s body and mind has the potential to respond differently to treatments. And it was interesting to hear how Rescue Remedy worked for you even though you were skeptical.
You brought up an interesting point about our individual energies and how they might play a role too. It’s definitely food for thought.
Please do come back and share more about your journey and experiences.
Regards
Ethan
Thanks Ethan.
Just tonight I have now tried the “Star of Bethlehem” for the second time (when quite sick) with results about as identical as the Rescue Remedy but they both have Star in I believe so that makes sense. I keep finding that I have to feel at least 70% bad before I can tell the benefits but that also makes sense….we do not feel the benefits of any medicine without feeling sick first and the sicker we are the more contrasting the effects of the medicine. A pain killer won’t be felt unless there is a real headache. I am sold on these two blends and will be trying more Bach blends and the one for focus I think I will try next.
Many years ago, a loved one took his own life. In an attempt to comfort me during that distressing time, my friends gave me Rescue Remedy. The profound grief and shock I experienced seemed to be “softened” when I used the remedy. I’m at a loss for a better description of its effect. It seemed apt for the situation. The impact on me was subtle yet clear, a more favorable alternative to pharmaceuticals. An intriguing thought just occurred to me. If our belief in a remedy’s efficacy can produce a positive outcome (placebo effect), then isn’t it plausible that there’s a converse placebo effect? Our skepticism could diminish or nullify a remedy’s effects. So, is the effectiveness rooted in our belief, or does disbelief hinder its potential? Perhaps it’s a combination of both.
Hi Martha
I’m very sorry to hear about your loss. You do make an interesting point. The nocebo effect is a known situation, but usually refers to when someone experiences a negative side effect when they know of the possible side effects a drug can cause. I’m not sure about any evidence for the kind of inverse placebo effect you describe though. I imagine if it were the case, it would occur for well-documented drugs like painkillers too, but I am unaware of this happening. I will have to look into it.
Regards
Ethan
I tried Rescue Remedy spray several times over the last 2 days and my anxiety has actually seemed worse than ever. I can’t say for sure that Rescue is the cause, but frankly, I’m afraid to use it again.
Hi Elizabeth
Thanks for sharing your experience. Sorry to hear you’ve had that experience. Personally, I would discontinue them and see if you feel better.
Regards
Ethan
I tried it 3-4 years ago. I wasn’t impressed. I’ve tried many other pills since then. They used to work ok for some time and then stopped. I am a man in my 80s, having a very busy time now, with too many thoughts at night. My basic sleep is 5 hours. So, I’ve tried it again.
IT WORKS FANTASTIC. I can sleep 7-8 hours (in total) after 1 spray applied when awake after an initial sleep of 4-5 hours. I advise all of you who have too many thoughts at night to try it.
Wishing you many good dreams, Joseph.
Hi Joseph
Thanks for sharing your experience. It’s interesting that they didn’t do it for you the first time around, but now are working well. Do you think there is some placebo effect at work, or is your opinion that the ingredients are actually doing what they are supposed to do?
Regards
Ethan
I think it’s a placebo effect maybe working but I have been in other drug studies and definitely felt the effect of the real drug I was taking, namely Viagra. That placebo never did a thing for me.
Thanks for your comment Louis. I don’t think there’s any question about viagra working or not, that’s the difference.
Regards
Ethan
Hi, it’s worth a reminder that when the homeopathic meds start doing their job – sleeping better/improving anxiety – you need to stop them because they’ve worked, and continuing has the opposite effect.
Hi Maria Jane
Thanks for your comment. Do you think that also applies to the placebo effect though?
Regards
Ethan
Re: Nytol Herbal tablets purchased in UK (green box, mine contained 20 “2 a night” capsules). I’m on day 6 and have not noticed any difference to sleep whatsoever. I’m aware the leaflet states to take for 2-4 weeks for the effect to be noticed, so I intend to take another 4 nights’ dosage and re-assess from there. I have really enjoyed reading your very informative and well-written articles/reviews after stumbling across your site on one of my many sleepless bouts at 2 am in England! Thank you.
Hi Pamela
Thanks for your comment. I imagine you read the Nytol Herbal review beforehand, as this article is about Rescue Remedy! Nonetheless, I wanted to say thanks for reading my articles and I’m glad you found them interesting. Maybe a little longer with the Nytol will help. If not, I’d try another technique instead!
Regards
Ethan
I bought the pastilles form and blackberry, which tasted great. I have taken other kinds before and had no problems. After taking it, I felt too relaxed. I went to relax but could not sleep. Later on during the day, I felt as if I was going to have a headache, but by the time I went to bed, I felt like I had headaches all over, not just in one spot. I slept ok, woke up the same, with headaches everywhere. Maybe it was how relaxed I was and my neck or back caused it. I drank caffeine and still had a headache, later had coffee, and I felt much better. Still, the headache is there, but less. For as much as I found this to be an unpleasant experience with this brand, I wonder if this can help someone. I will not take them again though.
Hi Ray
Thanks for sharing your experience. It does sound like Rescue Remedy is not for you, no matter how great they taste! Headaches are usually a warning sign for me to stop taking any sleep aid.
Regards
Ethan
I am curious, did you eat or drink anything before taking these homeopaths? They will not work if you have had anything by mouth including smoking 15 minutes before and after. Also with homeopaths if you do not have the symptoms of the one you are taking it will do the opposite. E.g remedy for anxiety and when you don’t have it can cause anxiety.
I’ve used Rescue Remedy for years, but not as a sleep aid. And I don’t think it’s much use for mental or emotional stress. BUT, it’s an absolute godsend for my multiple-sclerosis neuralgia. When my nervous system goes into hyper gear—twitching, cramping, spasms—Rescue takes the edge off enough that I can work or sleep. I don’t do drugs or allopathic medications, so Rescue is my the perfect answer. And yes, it’s 1000% more effective than a placebo.
Hi there
Thanks for sharing your experience. I haven’t heard of it being used for this before, so it was interesting to read your comment. I’m glad you have something that is so effective for you.
Regards
Ethan
Some people believe that our thoughts can influence the world in a more literal sense. They believe that if we think positive thoughts, we can actually manifest our desires and make them come true. That how’s the placebo works.
Hey there, I have been taking them for a week now and today I have an awful headache. My general anxiety disorder is really playing up and I have ringing in my ears. I’m not going to take any more of these pastilles as I feel that I would rather learn to deal with my anxiety as it is than have a cracking headache.
Hi Sara
Thanks for sharing your experience. I’d also not want to take a sleep aid that gave me a headache or other side effects. I hope you manage to find something that does help, and that you make progress in dealing with your anxiety.
Regards
Ethan
Hi, I’ve been taking the sleep capsules for about 2-3 weeks now. Seem to work for me, however I’ve been suffering with lightheadedness quite badly…. Not sure if it’s a coincidence or the capsules 🤷🏻♀️
Hi Julie
One way to find out is to stop taking them and see if the lightheadedness passes. I would suggest talking to your doctor about it though to rule out other explanations if it’s an ongoing problem.
Regards
Ethan
I tried the sleep melts for the past week, even took 4 at once last night and did not help me with sleep at all, was up until 4am. But I have also been getting nightly headaches the entire week, too. Will keep looking for a safe sleep aid I guess!
Hi Nicole
Thanks for your comment. Do you think the headaches were connected to the Rescue Remedy, or something else? Maybe the lack of sleep? Either way, I hope you find something that helps.
Regards
Ethan
I had a reaction 2 days ago after combining Clematis, Elm and Walnut although one of them, I think Elm, came out a few more than 2 drops which was frustrating. Quite quickly the left side of my face started tingling then the right side felt like I was having some kind of a stroke. I went upstairs to look in the mirror. Then my heart started racing so I went to check my BP which went up to 170/109. WTH!
Since then my abdomen has swollen making me look like I’m heavily pregnant. It’s uncomfortable and gets worse each time I eat. And I swear when going to the loo my pee was hotter than usual. I’m currently trying to flush it out.
I never want to try these again.
I was using Walnut I think quite happily and then once trying this combination I’m now left looking like a walrus and cannot stop the swelling. I am more tired than ever now too.
Has this happened to anyone? Does anyone know how to stop these effects?
I wouldn’t have bought 11 different rescue remedies if I knew this was going to happen!
Hi Sandra
Thanks for sharing your experience, which sounds scary. Did you speak to your doctor about what happened? This is the first time I’ve heard of this kind of reaction, assuming it was that and nothing else was going on at the same time.
Regards
Ethan
Another thing I had been giving my 14 year old daily for months was Megamag, a liquid magnesium supplement which is naturally derived from Salt Lake City. He must have benefited from the levels of magnesium yet it had none of the proclaimed effect on sleep patterns. I did try one bottle of melatonin about a year ago which worked the first half a dozen times though it’s not something I want to over rely on.
Hi, just a small testimony from those who have long suffered from anxiety crises. In my case, a move for work reasons forced me to lose all the relationships I had and as if that were not enough, the new colleagues were a band of insensitive people who made fun of me at every opportunity. I went out with the psychologist (which is not free) and with Guna’s rescue remedy, recommended to me by my aunt. I didn’t believe much in Bach flowers, but I must say that today in hindsight I have changed my perspective on many things. The human being is complex.
Hi Teresa
Thanks for sharing your experience of Rescue Remedy!
Regards
Ethan
I must write this as, despite not being convinced by how Bach worked, I’ve had undeniable results with my 14 year old son. I was despairing as he tells me he just never feels tired and he and his friends are in online group chats until 4am +. I can’t get his phone off him but that’s another story; anyway, I’ve put a few drops in his juice the past few nights and he’s out by 11. This hasn’t happened in a year so as a result, I’ve got new faith in the other couple of remedies I bought for myself. I’m still not wholly a believer but it seems very likely the night remedy is having an effect.
Hi Heather
Thanks for sharing your story. Out of interest, can I ask if he knows what the Remedy is?
Regards
Ethan
Hi there!
I just purchased a bottle the other day because I suffer from anxiety, depression, and insomnia (nice cocktail ahah)
Anyway, I heard about this before and decided to give it a try.
I’m a very open-minded, have a real connection to plants and flowers, and always keep in mind there are so many things we just don’t know yet; but also I keep a critical grounded mind.
The thing is, the more I do researches on Bach flowers, the less I find.
Some comments here are very similar, they don’t seem to come from a real customer. I honestly suspect that there’s a big commercial team behind it. That’s very common.
You don’t see how long it can take anywhere. Depends on the person is a wild answer. Not even if when effective it’s for immediate relief or something you build through the weeks like some medication or even natural treatment.
I’m surprised to see not many reviews through solid/verified YouTubers too.
I’ve been really anxious the last few days and been taking this to help. So far it’s just been worse and increasing every day. Not saying it causes it, but so far it makes me feel like I got some really expensive and gross booze.
Hi Samsa
Thanks for your comment and for sharing your experience. I think what you say highlights a problem with many over the counter medications, supplements and remedies. I know from personal experience of reviewing and looking into products that there is very often a limit to how much information is available about it, especially where it hasn’t undergone rigorous research. And that’s an inherent problems with supplements that are not regulated in the same way as standard medication – they just kind of slip through the net and as long as they adhere to certain rules about wording and disclaimers, they can often be marketed and sold with less info. than many people would probably like. A good example is over the counter sleeping pills that don’t even include a leaflet warning of all the possible side effects.
In this case, I see what you mean about the effect timeline. My understanding is that it’s meant to work the day you take it, and doesn’t get more or less effective over the days or weeks. I know some remedies, like valerian, have an argument for taking them for longer to get the maximum benefit. But I think Rescue Remedy is meant to literally ‘rescue’ you in time of need. It wouldn’t be much of a rescue if it took two weeks to work!
Regards
Ethan
Hi, I use rescue all the time and I find yes it works. I’ve tried most but not the pastels. I also use Kalms – think they work great together.
My friend recommended Bachs Rescue Remedy [comfort and reassurance] to me as my anxiety was awful which manifested as physical symptoms such as abdominal discomfort, pressure in my chest and palpitations. I did my research prior to using it so I was very skeptical based on the 2010 results of the controlled studies. Much to my surprise, I realised about 20 minutes later that the symptoms had subsided and I did feel more relaxed so I’m delighted with it. It may not work for everyone but it sure worked for me.
Hi Cheryl
Thanks for sharing your experience. It’s great that you feel it worked for you – that’s all that matters at the end of the day.
Regards
Ethan
My daughter always has a terrible time when it is bedtime for her 4 , 8, 12 year old children!
So I purchased the ‘sleep rescue remedy for them. Mixed it in water before their bedtime without saying anything… Would you believe that they all settled nicely after their bed time stories! Without the usual drama!
My daughter was amazed! Whether be a placebo effect or not, to them it was just a sip of water! It worked! So it has become a regular ritual with no more drama at bedtime!!
Hi, started using rescue remedy past week after suffering anxiety. It was recommended by a friend and although originally sceptical I was amazed at how quickly the drops kicked in. Within 15 minutes I lost the shakey, stomach nerves and also slept well. When I forgot to take it woke up in the night as previous feeling anxious, took the drops and able to quit stressing and got back to sleep easily, this was in stark comparison to how I had been coping prior to taking rescue remedy. Initially sceptical? Yes! Afterwards? A convert now! I don’t believe this was a placebo effect because I genuinely did not expect it to work. Maybe they don’t work for everyone, but it certainly worked for me.
Hi Anita
Thank you for sharing your experience of Rescue Remedy. Whatever the reason might be, I think they carry much less risk than many common medications, so if they work for you that’s great!
Regards
Ethan
I used this when in my 20’s for anxiety and agoraphobia and it didn’t work. Now in my 50’s I use it for anxiety and stress and it does work.
However I am more of the belief it’s just the few drops of alcohol (albeit diluted) on the tongue which is doing the trick rather than the essence of the flowers used.
Hi. I use remedy drops for flying, have done for several years. In my eyes they are a life saver, give me that calm feeling, have to use them a few times but I can honestly say I would be a wreak without them.
Hi Annemarie
Thanks for your comment. It’s great that they work for you. Whatever the method of action, if they help you cope better with the anxiety of flying, that can only be positive.
Regards
Ethan
Can it cause you to feel tired?
Hi Demi
Not in my experience. Maybe someone else reading this has felt that?
Regards
Ethan
I have taken Bach remedys throughout the years, also the Bush Flower essences. I am the type of person it’s not belief or anything else, I have to feel the remedy working. and they both work on shifting negative emotions without a doubt. people must remember it has taken years even most of there life been in a negative mood and it does take some time for the negative to shift. but if one stays with them for even some months you will see and feel that the negative emotions will shift and one shall feel much healthier in mind and body. this is my true statement, thank you, Christopher
I use it in the middle of the night if I am starting to get repetitive thoughts/anxiety. I can’t say it always works but it often does. I have a little china box of them by the bed. Maybe it’s the ritual of putting the pearl under the tongue and feeling it melt. The concentration not to drop it because it bounces away across the floor. But it often is the thing that calms me and sends me back to sleep. It also makes me feel good when because it’s such a little intervention.
Hi Kate
Thanks for sharing your experience and thoughts. I personally think that what you say makes a lot of sense where the ritual part and little intervention are concerned. That sounds kind of like the placebo effect in action to me, which is fine if it works!
Regards
Ethan
Hi Kate,
Bach’s White Chestnut is an excellent remedy for repetitive thoughts. You can use it as often as a few drops every 5-15 minutes until you can work out of the repeating thought patterns. Just thought I would mention! Also, if OCD is a complementary issue, Crab Apple is a great companion also.
Warm regards.
I tried it last year for diagnosed anxiety. It didn’t have any effect, unfortunately.
I’ve started reducing my use of phones/computers/TVs about 2hrs before sleeping, and it’s been a lot more effective.
Hi Bob
Thanks for sharing your experience. I also think taking practical steps like you’ve done will have a more beneficial effect for many people!
Regards
Ethan
I’ve just started trying it, so will let you know how it goes. My anxiety has manifested into physical sickness so everything crossed it does. Cheers
My high-anxiety female Lab suffers terribly when fireworks or thunder are going on. A half a dropper of Rescue Remedy puts her at ease – sometimes she even falls asleep during a thunder storm. Not a placebo effect at all. I haven’t tried it myself for sleep, but will take a shot tonight to see if it works. I never get to sleep without something to help :(.
Hi Pamela
Thanks for your comment. Lucky dog that it helps them! It would be nice if all dog owners had a way to keep their dog calm during fireworks, as I know how stressful it can be for them.
Regards
Ethan
I’m a psychiatric nurse. Being familiar with many sleeping medications, and having tried many, I am not very suggestible. However, I gave the melts a try, and they do seem to work for me, which was a surprise.
Hi Lyndsay
Thanks for your comment! To be honest, I spend a lot of time reviewing sleep aids and trying new ones, and I think I’m still slightly susceptible to the placebo effect…
Regards
Ethan
For me it works very well. I took rescue when I was having a problem and I didn’t want to take strong medications.
And I took rescue sleep and I could sleep better than with melatonin. No side effects. It works amazing!
Hi Patricia
Thanks for your comment, and it’s good to hear they are working well for someone!
Regards
Ethan
The Rescue Remedy night gels did seem to help me but I never felt well the next day felt fatigued and a bit anxious… do any of these ingredients tend to make you tired?
Hi Jean
Not that I’m aware of. Sounds like it’s probably one to avoid for you though.
Regards
Ethan
I tried the pastilles, they made me so tired. I have got the spray now – works well, no tiredness just feel relaxed.
Thanks for sharing your experience Kay!
Can the calmness come from the brandy?
I doubt the quantity in that tiny capsule could have such an effect.
I haven’t tried it on my dog but it contains grapes. Aren’t grapes poisonous to dogs? Makes no sense. I’m glad you listed the ingredients. Your review is great.
Hi Ranee
Thanks for your comment and compliment. And also thanks for sharing that interesting point! I don’t know if the type and quantity of grape in rescue remedy would cause problems for dogs – that’s something to ask an animal expert I guess.
Regards
Ethan
It was recommended by a veteranarian for my daughters friend, when her dog got ran over and it helped her dog very much. That’s when I started using it and it seems to have enough of an effect to take the sharp edge off my stress.
Also the one for pets does not have the alcohol in it.
Taker
Check with a homeopathic veterinarian. That is how I discovered it for myself. I had a cat years ago that didn’t like being confined to the carrier when making the trip to the veterinarian. So my veterinarian recommended the rescue remedy but he also told me that you give such a very minut dose because it’s based on the weight of the weight and size. obviously humans could tolerate more because of their size and animals it’s very very very very very small minute quantity usually put in their water bowl. I did find out at the time find excellent results. I also took it myself when I was going through a stressful period in my life. i was actually driving once and I had a panic attack my hands started to tremble and I felt almost confused like. I pulled over to the side of the road took a few drops under my tongue and within about 5 minutes or so I was able to drive again.
This is the way I was told that it works like taking a Valium but you don’t get the side effects or addiction. It’s best to see a holistic practitioner because certain natural treatments cannot be taken if you are on certain kinds of medications.
Good luck to you
Kate
This helped my anxiety loads, after suffering years and years it’s calmed me down.
But I’ve had to stop using it as it gives me a terrible bowel movement :(
Hi JJ
That’s a shame – just when you thought you found something that worked!
Regards
Ethan
I have used Bach flower remedies for years including the horses, dogs and myself. I find them very helpful and believe you notice the change more when you stop using them but by that point hopefully your body and mind have a different set to them
I recently have been going through the worst time of my life and I recently found the pastilles that dissolve in your mouth that taste like candy. I can say that they do help me a lot. This is coming from someone who is also prescribed anxiety and PTSD meds. these pastilles work… I usually eat 1-2 but I just ate 4 & I feel much better.
Hi Niki
Thanks for sharing your thoughts. I hope things improve for you soon.
Regards
Ethan
Hi, I just received a Bach essence via UPS. It arrived in a box, but the small bottle was very warm; we have had hot weather here in California for the last few days. Is the essence still safe and good to use?
Thank you,
Margie
Hi Margie
I don’t see why it would be a major problem. But if you want to check, perhaps write to the Bach website?
Regards
Ethan
Sorry, what have you been taking?
I have the same symptoms as you and desperately want to get back to normal.
Hi there. I take amitriptyline high dose had these headaches for about 15 years it’s unbearable a lot of the time always hoping not today please not another day with this pain.
Hi Demi it’s Lesley here yes it did make me very tired I had the spray I get terrible headache did help a few times but 2 day I got the headache from hell.
I tried the blackcurrant pastilles. They did nothing – just like a sweet, and the rescue melts had no effect whatsoever either. What a waste of money. In the bin they went.
Hi Lee
Thanks for sharing your experience.
Regards
Ethan
I lately bought Rescue Remedy 30 for anxiety and Stress.
But on going through the Website found it contains Star of Bethlehem.
As am a patient with unstable heartbeats and also will imbalance of Sodium & Potassium level, have discontinued taking Rescue Remedy.
Hi I have a fear of dentist I have to have a tooth out will taking rescue help me instead of taking what my doctor has given me, also do you think it would help someone with Alzheimers?
Thanks, Kathy.
Hi Kathy
Thanks for your comment. I don’t imagine Rescue Remedy will compare to the dentist’s medication, but really that’s something to discuss with them, as they will know best. I also don’t know of any use specific to Alzheimer’s.
Regards
Ethan
Hi Kathy
My Dad has Alzheimer’s and has a prescribed liquid supplement called Souvenaid which is supposed to have supportive elements to it. I’ve also heard recently that MCT oil (derived from coconut oils) is meant to be good for mind clarity. I’ll be trying that. Cheers, Mel
I have just gone through a very bad period of anxiety which affected me daily meaning I struggled to function and work.
After a day of starting Rescue remedy, I felt so much better and it is definitely helping me to overcome my issues.
Hi Jacqui
Thanks for sharing, and it’s great you found the Remedy helped so much. I hope you manage to get on top of the anxiety and return to normal life.
Regards
Ethan
I searched the ingredients and I found the following: clematis can produce dizziness confusion convulsions. Star of Bethlehem affects the rhythm of the heart. Are Rescue pills safe to take?
Hi Margarita
I’ve never seen any safety warnings about Rescue Remedy causing these conditions. Perhaps because the ingredients are in such low quantities. But if you’re concerned, don’t take it.
Regards
Ethan
That could explain why my palpitations are back? And had no sleep after taking this remedy.
Really? I suffer with heart palpitations and mine have pretty much stopped after using this…
Hi, I know this is an old post, but I was just reading and figured I would respond! Flower essences are vibrational medicines, meaning that they do not include plant matter. The flower essences of Clematis and Star of Bethlehem are not the same as even a homeopathic. The essences do not have any interactions with medications or have effects that they would from say drinking a tea of the same plant. I hope this answer helps!
Can I take melatonin and rescue sleep at the same time?
Hi Karina
Despite my skepticism about Rescue Remedy, I would still abide by the rule of thumb of not mixing sleep aids or other medicines without consulting a doctor first.
Regards
Ethan
Hi. Took it 2 nights ago and was deeply depressed the next day. And it’s not the first time it’s happening. I also woke up like five times during the night.
Hi Wunmi
Thanks for sharing your experience. Sorry to hear you had that effect – it sounds like Rescue Remedy isn’t right for you at all!
Regards
Ethan
First do you have any deficiency of iron, vitiams, and minerals.
Look into L- tyrosine
L- tyrosine is an essential amino acid. It can calm nerves, release depression. It is not meant for long term use.
It also help E.D. for males
27% alcohol is very high. Recently I have had a very stressful time. I took some Rescue remedy. It definitely helped I think.
However I gave up alcohol 4 years ago. I’m not going to use Rescue anymore as I felt very tempted to have a drink.
So for me I’m not sure……i do find Dormeason is great for a good nights sleep.
Hi Peter
Thanks for your comment. I think considering the actual quantity in a capsule, the amount is negligible. But psychologically, I can see why you might want to avoid it.
Regards
Ethan
Hi Peter and others, My wife who is in AA recovery is drinking this right out of the bottle. She has lots of $ and is going through several bottles a day.
Hi Peter, I know that this is an old post but I just wanted to respond. There is a pet version of rescue remedy that is just as effective but doesn’t have an alcohol base. It is not the sleep aid version, it is the regular Rescue Remedy. There are also pastilles that are great. Just wanted to let you know!
Hi! I have used Rescue Remedy in the past for my dogs and I could see it helped them. I’ve used it for one that would get car sick and ones that went to 4H shows. I could see a noticeable difference in their behavior. The dogs wouldn’t know about the placebo effect, so I truly believe it works.
I have used it as well, and currently have a different blend that was created for me for anxiety and transition. Like you said in the review, it’s not powerful like drugs are, but it seems to work and must be gentler on my system. Thank you for reviewing the product.
Kathy
Hi Kathy
Thanks for your comment. I know the dog argument is one of the commonly used ones to defend this product, and other forms of homeopathy. It’s certainly interesting! My counter-theory is that it actually works as a placebo on the dog owner, making them feel calmer and more confident in working with their dog. And the dogs then find that settles them. What do you think?
Regards
Ethan
hello I find the drops do help me but make me feel like i want to go for a wee a lot is this usual?
Hi Lorraine
Thanks for your comment. I don’t know if it’s common or not, it’s not something I experienced. I can’t remember offhand if other people described the same in the comments either – you could have a read through them.
Regards
Ethan
I have a tin that I haven’t used in a while. I opened it and the blackcurrant pastilles have turned grey. Can I safely use the pastilles now?
Susan
Hi Susan
I’m not sure to be honest. Is it past the use by date? Perhaps try contacting the company to see what they advise.
Regards
Ethan