The effect of Bach flower remedies on hope and quality of life in people with advanced cancer: a triple-blind randomized clinical trial

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the effect of Bach Flower Remedies Therapy on the hope and quality of life of people with advanced cancer. Method: Randomized, triple-blind (1:1) clinical trial in a high-complexity public hospital in the Southern region of Brazil. Ninety-nine participants were allocated to either the intervention group (solution with nine flower essences) or the placebo group (Hydro-brandy solution). Both groups used four drops orally, four times a day, for 120 days, with monthly follow-up. Hope measured by the Herth Hope Index, quality of life through Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy – Palliative Care. Results: In the flower remedies group (n = 50), hope varied from 43.44/48 to 44.53/48 and in the placebo group (n = 49) from 41.67/48 to 44.29/48, a significant increase over time (p = 0.024), with no difference between groups (p = 0.977). Quality of life ranged from 141.39/184 to 150.60/184 in the flower remedies group, and from 133.76/184 to 148.96/184 in the placebo group, with no significant difference between groups (p = 0.230) or time (p = 0.240). Conclusion: Although not statistically significant, there was a slight increase in life expectancy and quality of life, highlighting the importance of non-pharmacological therapies in evidence-based palliative care practice. Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials: RBR-8q6z6kq.