I use it this way. I get a cup of water in a real glass not plastic. You "energize" the rescue remedy by hiting it in the palm of your hand 10 times or so. Put 4-5 drops dirctly under your tongue. Then put the standard 4-5 drops in the water and sip it over the nest 5 min or so. You can repeat until you are calm. This remedy is more for emergency rescues. Like I have used when I was nervous and needed an IV in the emergency room. Or when my daughter was having an allergic eaction to food coloring. I have used it after hearing bad news, etc. There are other Bach flower remedies for different type every day stress. For example: White Chestnut for going over and over the day and unable to sleep, re thinking a stressful situation in your life constantly all day, etc. It is a nice system of med if you learn how to use it. Don't give up on it.... just learn more so you use each remedy in it's proper context.