The Encyclopedia of Crystals, Herbs, and New Age Elements: An A to Z Guide to New Age Elements and How to Use Them - Adams Media 2016

Gorse
The Power of Flowers: Flower Essences

ORIGINS

Gorse is any of the flowering plants of the genus Ulex, which comprises about twenty species of thorny evergreen shrubs. Native to Europe, these plants have fragrant, edible yellow flowers and black pods. Gorse is one of Bach’s original flower remedies.

HISTORY/LORE

Gorse was brought to New Zealand in the 1830s, and it rapidly took over areas of cleared land and farmland. Over time it became known as an invasive weed, and great sums of money have been spent on controlling its spread. It is estimated that gorse covers between 3 and 5 percent of New Zealand’s total land area.

USES

Bach categorized gorse under “for those who suffer uncertainty” and recommended the flower essence for those suffering from “very great hopelessness, they have given up belief that more can be done for them. Under persuasion or to please others they may try different treatments, at the same time assuring those around that there is so little hope of relief.” This flower essence shines a light on the path out of despair, restoring one’s faith and helping one to move forward.