Gentian (Gentianella amarella)

Gentian is for that relatively mild downheartedness we sometimes feel when things go wrong and knock us back: We miss a bus, fail an exam, miss out on an opportunity. Often the feeling lifts by itself, but the remedy can be used to lift it sooner, so that we are able to make things go right instead of just hoping they will.

Gentian is often confused with Gorse, which is also a remedy for feeling down when things go wrong. The difference is largely one of degree. People in a Gorse state have decided to give up. They refuse to be encouraged, and even if they seek a solution, they will do so grudgingly, assuring everyone that there is no use trying. People in a Gentian state are less pessimistic and more prepared to try again.

Dr Bach’s description (from The Twelve Healers and Other Remedies)

Those who are easily discouraged. They may be progressing well in illness, or in the affairs of their daily life, but any small delay or hindrance to progress causes doubt and soon disheartens them.

Information and pictures supplied by the Dr Edward Bach Centre – and used with kind permission. Please support this wonderful organisation by visiting their site and taking a look at all they offer.