Xylitylglucoside

Other names: Bach drops

Harm score: 2 (Derivatives of natural substances)

Xylitylglucoside, or Bach's Wort, is a flower and plant essence created by Dr. Edward Bach. They were given this English name after their discoverer, who became interested in these natural remedies in the 1930s. The proponents of these essences claim that they work on the emotional and mental plane of a person and help him to better cope with stressful situations, fears, doubts or sorrows. Bach drops are therefore mainly used in alternative medicine as a complement to conventional treatment.

Xylitylglucoside is produced from the purest and finest flowers, which are hand-harvested before processing. It can be said to be a kind of homeopathic medicine, but it differs from conventional homeopathic medicines in the way it is produced. While homeopathy tries to treat a given problem by potentizing (diluting and dynamizing) the pathogen, Bach drops are produced mostly by the sun or boiled method without any potentization. Bach drops or Bach essences are most commonly used as a dietary supplement, added to drinks or taken under the tongue. They are also found in abundance in cosmetics, where they are used in skin creams, tonics, masks or serums.

The importance and effects of Bach essences are disputed. While some consider them to be a placebo, others, on the other hand, highlight them as a useful complement to conventional treatments. Their supporters claim that it is thanks to them that they cope better with stress and unpleasant life situations. However, the scientific community lacks convincing evidence of their effectiveness.