Herbal alternatives

Rescue Remedy

Rescue remedy is the most famous of the Bach flower remedies (which you may have heard of). Unlike the other Bach flower remedies, this one is a mix of five different remedies (Cherry Plum, Clematis, Impatiens, Rock Rose and Star of Bethlehem) which can make you feel more calm and relaxed during a stressful time or event.

You may be inclined to think "homeopathy? - bah, humbug". And who could blame you? Homeopathy is about taking a substance and diluting it... then diluting it again... and again... until you are left with a solution which contains such a weak dilution that there isn't any of the original substance left (still, some people swear by it). It's most likely a placebo effect - but placebos have been shown to be almost as efficient as "the real thing" in many instances and don't have any side-effects.

Actually, Bach flower remedies aren't homeopathic. Unlike homeopathic remedies, they contain an actual diluted herbal extract in alcohol (the alcohol is there as a preservative). Rescue remedy has received some rave reviews from people trying to calm their nerves before a dental appointment (and in the days or weeks leading up to the first appointment) - so why not give it a try? You've got nothing to lose, as there are no side effects. It's the only form of oral sedation which will allow you to drive to and from your appointment on your own.

Dosage: "In an emergency Rescue Remedy can be taken neat from the bottle, four drops at a time, and as frequently as required. Otherwise put four drops in a glass of water and take frequent sips until the emotions have calmed." (from the Bach Centre's website, www.bachcentre.com). Rescue remedy is available in most pharmacies and natural health stores.