Bach Flower Remedies
Gorse

Ulex europaeus

There are only three types of gorse and while there are differences in size and color they are similar in their appearance. This is a very prickly evergreen bush. U. europaeus, which Bach chose, is the largest gorse, up to 2m high with many branches which are covered in strong sharp spines (10-20mm). The smaller gorses (U. minor and U. gallii) both flower later in the year, often making a rich display with the heather in September. Their flowers are not so golden being rather a bright pale yellow like the broom. Broom is a related shrub which has no spines and small rounded leaves.

Flowering Period

Although it is true that Gorse may flower throughout the year it is abundant in spring and early summer, from late March to early June.

Preparation

Gorse is prepared by the sun method. Choose a place where gorse is prolific and select from bushes throughout the clump. The flowers are picked by the short stalk and floated on to the water. Bach said that the blooms should be taken just before gorse reaches its full glory, a little before it gives out scent, probably in mid April.

Uses

Hopelessness, pessimism.

The Gorse despondency is deeper than that of Gentian. Put simply, in the Gentian state of mind people feel on the verge of giving up; in the Gorse state they have given up. There may still be an exit route, but people in the Gorse state do not believe one exists. Quite often they refuse to look for a solution, claiming that nothing can be done for them, and because they feel so negative, it is difficult, if not impossible, to persuade them otherwise.

Animals cannot tell you that they feel hopeless, but you may recognize the fact from their facial expressions and body language. A dog in the Gorse state will probably hold its tail between its legs and its head down, and may appear more introverted than usual. It will look heavy-hearted.

This frame of mind might be most noticeable when the animal is ill. Some animals may look as though they have given up hope and are ready to die, but by giving Gorse quite often the spirits are lifted, optimism returns, and consequently there is a greater chance of recovery from the illness.

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