Table of contents
What is the Clematis Bach flower remedy?
The positive potential of Clematis
The negative pattern of Clematis
Psychological aspects of the Clematis theme
The physical level and Clematis
Who is the Clematis Bach flower remedy suitable for?
How to use the Bach flower remedy Clematis
Possible combinations with other Bach flowers
Conclusion: Clematis – The bridge between dream and reality
What is the Clematis Bach flower remedy?
The Bach flower remedy Clematis, the ninth of the 38 Bach flowers, is derived from the wild clematis (traveller’s joy, Clematis vitalba). This perennial climbing plant can grow up to ten metres tall and is characterised by its white flowers, which bloom between July and September. It is also commonly known as “white clematis” or “old man’s beard”, a name derived from its hairy fruit clusters, which appear after flowering.
Dr Edward Bach, the founder of Bach flower therapy, described Clematis as the “reality flower”. In his writings, he described the essence as a remedy for people who live more in the future and in their daydreams than in the present. He recognised that, whilst these people possess a rich imagination, they often fail to turn their ideas into reality.
The Clematis essence is produced using the so-called sun method. This involves placing the plant’s fresh flowers in a bowl of spring water and leaving them in the sun for a few hours. The energetic information from the flowers is transferred to the water, which is then preserved with alcohol (usually brandy) in a 1:1 ratio. This mother tincture is then further diluted to produce the finished Bach flower essence.
In the Bach flowers system, Clematis belongs to the group of “flowers for those suffering from insecurity”. It specifically addresses a state of mental absent-mindedness and a lack of grounding, which manifests as daydreaming and a lack of down-to-earthness. The essence is intended to help the person concerned transform their creativity and visions into concrete reality, rather than remaining trapped in the world of dreams.
The positive potential of Clematis
The Bach flower remedy Clematis particularly unleashes its positive potential in people who are prone to daydreaming and mental absent-mindedness. When in a balanced state, Clematis personalities are extremely creative and resourceful individuals who are able to use their visionary abilities constructively.
The key positive potential of Clematis lies in the ability to bridge the gap between dream and reality. These people can translate their creative visions and ideas into reality and bring them to life. They are capable not only of dreaming their dreams, but also of making them a reality.
The following characteristics are evident in the positive Clematis state:
- Groundedness and presence in the here and now
- Alertness and focus on the present
- Putting creative ideas into practice
- Strong powers of observation and attention to detail
- Balance between imagination and a sense of reality
- Goal-oriented action and perseverance
- Ability to put visions into practice
People in a positive Clematis state remain creative and imaginative, but they use these qualities to actively shape their lives rather than merely dreaming about them. They keep both feet firmly on the ground whilst allowing their minds to wander freely.
Positive affirmations that support the balanced Clematis state are:
- “I am awake. I see clearly. I create.”
- “I am present in the here and now.”
- “I connect with reality and harness my creativity.”
- “I am grounded and active.”
- “I am realising my dreams step by step.”
The credo of a balanced Clematis personality might be: “I combine the best of two worlds – the vision of what is possible and the power of the present moment.”
The negative pattern of Clematis
When in a negative or unbalanced state, Clematis personalities display characteristic behavioural patterns that can impair their quality of life and their ability to act. These people live more in their imagination than in reality and find it difficult to concentrate on the here and now.
Typical statements made by people in the Clematis state are:
- “Sorry, my mind was just elsewhere.”
- “It’s all so boring; I’d rather dream about what might be.”
- “One day I’ll put my ideas into practice, but now isn’t the right time yet.”
- “I just can’t concentrate; my thoughts are constantly wandering.”
- “Reality is so sobering; in my dreams, everything is much nicer.”
- “I’m always forgetting what I actually set out to do.”
- “I often feel as though I’m not really here at all.”
The negative pattern of Clematis personalities includes the following characteristics:
- Pronounced daydreaming and frequent wandering of the mind
- Lack of interest in the present and in everyday details
- Forgetfulness and inattention
- Difficulty concentrating and sticking to one task
- A wealth of ideas without concrete implementation
- Escaping into fantasy worlds when confronted with problems
- Exhaustion and tiredness caused by constant mental escapism
- Inability to cope with practical aspects of life and take responsibility
These people often seem absent-minded, as if they were physically present but mentally somewhere else entirely. They find it difficult to follow conversations and frequently forget appointments or commitments. In extreme cases, this can lead to a complete detachment from reality and prevent the person concerned from managing their life effectively.
This negative thought pattern often follows the scheme: “Reality is too harsh and uninteresting – in my imagination, I can be whoever I want, and anything is possible.” This escape from reality serves as a defence against disappointment and challenges, but ultimately leads to more problems, as important areas of life are neglected.
Psychological aspects of the Clematis theme
The psychological aspects of the Clematis theme run deep and touch upon fundamental questions of human existence. At its core, it is about the tension between dream and reality, between the potential of what is possible and the confrontation with reality.
The Clematis personality faces the psychological challenge of connecting both worlds – that of fantasy and that of reality – rather than being torn between them. People in the Clematis state unconsciously seek a way to escape reality, which is sometimes perceived as too harsh or too boring.
Causes of this behavioural pattern:
- An early formative experience in which the imagination served as an escape from stressful situations
- A deep sense of not belonging or of being an outsider in the world
- The inner conviction that one’s own ideals cannot be realised in reality
- A subconscious fear of failure when trying to realise one’s own visions
- A natural need for spiritual connection that cannot be adequately fulfilled
Dr Bach recognised that the Clematis personality often has a strong spiritual component. These people intuitively sense that there is more to life than the material world and long for a deeper connection to the spiritual realm. When out of balance, however, this longing can lead to an escape from the demands of everyday life.
The Bach flower remedy Clematis helps, on a psychological level, to overcome this split and achieve an integration of imagination and reality. It supports the person concerned in using their visionary abilities not as an escape, but as creative potential that can be brought into reality.
When in a balanced state, the Clematis personality recognises that true spiritual development lies not in escaping reality, but in consciously shaping one’s life in the here and now. The Bach flower remedy helps to achieve this integration and to live one’s own spirituality in a down-to-earth, practical way.
The physical level and Clematis
Bach flower therapy is based on the principle that emotional imbalances can ultimately manifest themselves on a physical level as well. In the case of the Clematis remedy, characteristic physical symptoms emerge which are linked to a fundamental state of mental absent-mindedness and a lack of grounding.
Physical symptoms frequently associated with the Clematis state include:
- Chronic tiredness and exhaustion with no apparent physical cause
- Sleep disturbances, particularly difficulty falling asleep due to an overactive imagination
- Paleness and a generally weak physical appearance
- Low blood pressure and circulatory problems
- A tendency towards fainting and dizziness
- Impaired concentration and forgetfulness
- Delayed recovery from illness or injury
- Susceptibility to colds due to a lack of grounding and resilience
One particular observation made by Dr Bach was that people in the Clematis state often show little interest in their physical health. They frequently do not take symptoms of illness seriously enough and do too little to become or remain healthy. Their minds are so preoccupied with dreams and fantasies that they fail to heed the body’s signals.
In children in the Clematis state, the following physical symptoms may also be noticeable:
- Frequent stumbling or minor accidents due to a lack of attention
- Slow motor development due to a lack of interest in physical activity
- Loss of appetite, as they are mentally absent whilst eating
The Bach flower remedy Clematis can help to overcome these physical symptoms by enabling those affected to be more present in the here and now and in their bodies. As grounding increases, physical vitality and resilience often improve as well.
It is important to emphasise that Bach flower therapy does not directly treat physical symptoms, but works on an emotional and psychological level. A doctor should always be consulted in the event of persistent or serious physical symptoms. However, the Bach flower remedy Clematis can serve as a complementary aid to activate the body’s self-healing powers and promote recovery.
Who is the Clematis Bach flower remedy suitable for?
The Bach flower remedy Clematis can be helpful for people in various life situations and age groups. It is particularly suitable for those who frequently lose themselves in daydreams and find it difficult to be present in the here and now. The following section describes the different groups of people and situations in which Clematis can be of support.
For adults, Clematis is particularly suitable for:
- Frequent mental absent-mindedness and daydreaming
- Difficulty concentrating on conversations or tasks
- A feeling of not being properly grounded in life
- A wealth of ideas that are not put into practice
- Excessive tiredness with no apparent physical cause
- Forgetfulness and inattention in everyday life
- Escapism into fantasy or virtual worlds
- Creative blocks caused by a lack of grounding
For children, Clematis can offer particularly helpful support with:
- Inattention and concentration difficulties at school
- Excessive daydreaming and “head in the clouds” behaviour
- Forgetfulness when carrying out everyday tasks and homework
- Frequent daydreaming, which makes it difficult to interact with peers
- Difficulty listening and following instructions
- Imaginative children who struggle to put their ideas into practice
- Excessive preoccupation with fantasy worlds rather than real-life activities
Clematis can also be used for animals if the following behaviours are observed:
- Apathy and lack of interest in one’s surroundings
- Apathetic behaviour with no apparent physical cause
- Lack of responsiveness when spoken to or in response to stimuli
- Distracted behaviour and lack of attention
- Lethargy and listlessness in an otherwise healthy body
- Long periods of sleep and an increased need for rest
Clematis can be particularly helpful in certain life situations:
- During periods of recovery following an illness, to support a return to an active life
- During career changes that require focus and presence
- During periods of study and exams, when concentration is required
- During creative processes, to actually put ideas into practice
- During periods of reorientation, when concrete steps are needed
- When coping with grief, when there is a tendency to lose oneself in memories
Clematis is also suitable for highly sensitive or spiritually inclined people who sometimes find it difficult to reconcile their subtle perceptions with everyday life. The essence helps them to maintain their sensitivity and spiritual connection, whilst at the same time remaining grounded and capable of taking action in their daily lives.
How to use the Bach flower remedy Clematis
Using the Clematis Bach flower remedy is simple and can be easily incorporated into your daily routine. Depending on your needs and preferences, there are various ways to take and use it. Below you will find detailed instructions on how to use this Bach flower remedy correctly.
Dosage and administration:
- Direct intake: Add 2 drops from the stock bottle (undiluted mother tincture) to a glass of water and drink in sips throughout the day.
- Dosage bottle: Add 2 drops of Clematis to a 30 ml bottle of mineral water (or a mixture of water and one teaspoon of alcohol as a preservative). Take 4 drops of this mixture at least 4 times a day, either directly onto the tongue or in a little water.
- For acute situations: In the event of sudden, intense episodes of absent-mindedness or daydreaming, you can take 4 drops of the prepared mixture undiluted straight away.
Further possible uses:
- External use: A few drops of the mixture can be added to body lotion or massage oil to provide gentle support through the skin.
- Compress: In cases of physical exhaustion, a compress soaked in the Clematis mixture can be placed on the forehead or the solar plexus.
- Bath additive: Add around 10 drops of the ready-to-use mixture to the bath water for a relaxing yet grounding bath.
- Room spray: Add a few drops to a spray bottle filled with water and spray the room to create an atmosphere that promotes concentration.
Use with children:
- The dosage is the same as for adults, as Bach flowers work energetically and do not need to be dosed according to body weight.
- For young children who do not wish to take the drops directly, they can be mixed into drinks or food.
- Alternatively, the drops can be applied to the wrists or temples.
- At school or nursery, you can give your child a small bottle containing the mixture, which they can take as and when needed.
Use with animals:
- Small animals: Add 2 drops of the prepared mixture to drinking water or onto a treat.
- Larger animals: Add 4 drops of the prepared mixture directly into the mouth or mix into the food.
- Alternatively, the drops can also be applied to the coat or paws, from where the animal will absorb them whilst grooming itself.
- For shy animals: apply the drops to your hands and stroke the animal with them.
Duration of use:
The duration of treatment depends on the individual situation. In acute cases, improvement may be seen after just a few days. For deep-seated, long-standing patterns, regular use over several weeks or months is recommended. Monitor the changes and adjust the duration of treatment accordingly.
Possible combinations with other Bach flowers
The Bach flower remedy Clematis can have an enhanced or complementary effect when combined with other Bach flowers. Depending on the individual situation and accompanying emotional states, different combinations may be appropriate. Here you will find valuable guidance on possible combinations and their specific effects.
Combinations for difficulties with concentration:
- Clematis + White Chestnut: Ideal for racing thoughts that make it even harder to concentrate. Whilst Clematis addresses absent-mindedness and daydreaming, White Chestnut helps to calm unwanted thoughts.
- Clematis + Chestnut Bud: An effective combination for people who do not learn from their mistakes because they are not mentally present enough. Chestnut Bud supports learning from experience.
- Clematis + Hornbeam: Helpful for mental fatigue and the feeling of being unable to cope with the demands of everyday life. Hornbeam boosts mental vitality.
Combinations for emotional topics:
- Clematis + Gentian: For people who are quickly discouraged by setbacks and then retreat into fantasy worlds. Gentian promotes optimism and the ability to carry on despite obstacles.
- Clematis + Wild Rose: Particularly helpful for resignation and the feeling of having to surrender to fate. Wild Rose strengthens initiative and joie de vivre.
- Clematis + Olive: For profound exhaustion leading to increased mental absent-mindedness. Olive restores physical and mental strength.
Combinations for creative processes:
- Clematis + Walnut: Helps with putting creative ideas into practice, particularly during periods of transition or when external influences are a distraction. Walnut protects against outside influences and strengthens one’s own path.
- Clematis + Larch: Ideal for creative people who doubt their abilities and therefore fail to realise their ideas. Larch promotes self-confidence and courage.
- Clematis + Elm: Helpful for creative minds who feel overwhelmed by their own ideas and expectations. Elm helps foster a sense of being able to rise to the challenge.
Combinations for children:
- Clematis + Mimulus: For shy, dreamy children who retreat into their fantasy world to escape their fears. Mimulus helps to overcome familiar fears.
- Clematis + Cherry Plum: For children who fluctuate between daydreaming and impulsive behaviour. Cherry Plum promotes inner calm and self-control.
- Clematis + Impatiens: Supports impatient, dreamy children who become easily frustrated when reality does not match their expectations. Impatiens promotes patience and acceptance.
Combinations for older people:
- Clematis + Honeysuckle: For older people who fluctuate between daydreams and memories of the past. Honeysuckle helps them to live in the present rather than dwelling on memories.
- Clematis + Gorse: For resigned older people who have lost faith in the future and therefore take refuge in fantasies. Gorse strengthens hope and confidence.
- Clematis + Star of Bethlehem: Helpful following traumatic experiences, when those affected try to cope with what they have been through by switching off and becoming mentally absent.
Combinations for animals:
- Clematis + Rescue Remedy: For traumatised animals that react by becoming withdrawn or distant. The Rescue Remedy combination provides support in acute stress situations.
- Clematis + Rock Rose: For anxious animals that freeze in shock or mentally shut down. Rock Rose helps with panic and extreme fear.
- Clematis + Wild Oat: For animals that appear disoriented and cannot find a clear direction. Wild Oat helps them find their own way.
When combining Bach flowers, the general rule is that no more than six to seven different essences should be used at the same time in order to achieve the best possible effect. The selection should always be tailored to the individual’s current state of mind and life situation.
Conclusion: Clematis – The bridge between dream and reality
The Bach flower remedy Clematis occupies a special place within the system of the 38 Bach flowers. It embodies the connection between the world of dreams and visions on the one hand, and concrete reality on the other. As a “reality flower”, it helps people to use their creative imagination not as an escape, but as a means of actively shaping their lives.
Clematis personalities are naturally creative, empathetic and often spiritually inclined. Their rich inner life is a gift that deserves to be cherished. The challenge is not to suppress these qualities, but to bring them into balance and use them constructively. The Clematis Bach flower remedy helps to find this balance by gently but firmly directing one’s attention to the present moment.
When in a positive, balanced state, Clematis types are alert and present without losing their power of vision. They are able to turn their dreams and ideas into reality, thereby not only enriching their own lives but also making a valuable contribution to others. Their natural creativity, combined with a down-to-earth attitude and presence, makes them inspiring individuals.
Clematis has a wide range of applications, from helping pupils improve their concentration and supporting creative processes to providing support during periods of recovery. The essence can be used on both people and animals and combines well with other Bach flowers to address specific needs in a targeted manner.
As with all Bach flowers, the focus with Clematis is not on suppressing symptoms, but on transforming an unbalanced state into its positive potential. The essence has a gentle, supportive effect by activating hidden self-healing powers and paving the way to inner balance.
If you recognise yourself in the description of the Clematis personality, or if people around you display these characteristics, the Clematis Bach flower remedy can be a valuable aid on the path to greater presence and vitality. It helps to bridge the gap between dreams and reality and to consciously experience and shape life in all its fullness.
The journey from daydreaming to creative presence may sometimes be challenging, but with the gentle support of the Bach flower remedy Clematis, it can become an enriching experience that opens new doors and allows hidden potential to blossom.
Have you had any personal experience with the Clematis Bach flower remedy? Do you recognise yourself or people around you in the description? I’d love to hear your comments and personal experiences. Please feel free to share this article with others who might benefit from the information.
Important notes
- Bach flowers are not a substitute for necessary medical treatment for physical or mental illnesses.
- The information presented here is for general information purposes only and does not constitute a promise of healing.
- Bach flowers are not medicines in the conventional medical sense and have no proven pharmacological effect
- Bach flowers can be used as a complementary support to conventional treatment.
- The drops contain a small amount of alcohol as a preservative. Alcohol-free variants (e.g. preserved with glycerine) can be used for children, animals or in cases of alcohol intolerance.
- Bach flowers can be safely combined with other therapeutic methods or medicines, as there are no known interactions.
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