| Before the avid pursuit of science, astrology and medicine were once close companions. Indeed, Hippocrates, known as the father of modern medicine, is reputed to have said "a physician without a knowledge of astrology has no right to call himself a physician". By then of course (c. 460 BC), the link between astrology and medicine was firmly established. It's roots seem to lie in ancient Egypt where the astrologer/priests had turned to astrology to provide a theoretical basis for healing with herbs.
These days of course, the classification of plants and herbs, is based on similarities of structure, origin and sexual characteristics, derived from the work of Carolus Linnaeus (1707-1778), the famous Swedish naturalist. Yet the earliest recorded classification of plants was by the Greek botanist Theophrastus (370-285 BC) whose different categorisation methods included climate, soil and astrology.
It is thought that astrology originated with the Babylonians. Their unpolluted skies yielded an opportunity to observe heavenly phenomena. They found that certain movement of the planets and stars reflected events on the earth. Each planet gradually acquired a set of characteristics. For instance when the fiery planet Mars was active in the sky, neighbours quarrelled and wars broke out. Soon Mars became known as the god of war. Plants, known to have this fiery quality, were also assigned the rulership of Mars. These included Ginger, Black Pepper and Garlic, known to have a stimulating and rubifacient quality. On the other hand Venus, the planet of peace, brought tranquillity to the world when prominent in the skies. Plants known to have a cooling effect on the mind and body were assigned the rulership of Venus. These included Rose, Geranium and Violet. Its no surprise to learn that these aromatic plants are popular ingredients in many perfumes, designed to have an uplifting effect upon our emotions. Even smells were assigned planetary rulership. For instance, sweet smelling aromas were given to Venus whilst 'sour, bitter and sharp' aromas were assigned to Saturn, planet of discipline.
It is thought that the three wise men who gave their gifts to Jesus of Gold, Myrrh and Frankincense were really astrologers. These three are ruled by the Sun and in astrology the Sun stands for kingship.
Herbal medicine based on astrology was an art taken up by many herbalists and it flourished during the Middle Ages. Shakespeare makes many allusions to the property of herbs in his plays. For instance, "They are but burs (Burdock), cousin, thrown upon thee in holiday foolery" from As You Like It (William Shakespeare, 1599).
The most famous herbalist/astrologer was Nicholas Culpeper (1616-1654) who in his short life-time wrote over 40 books including his famous herbal which lists the rulership of plants and planets. He picked and dried the herbs himself, choosing the right astrological moment to do so. Culpeper suggested that plants are best gathered during the planetary hour associated with the plant. Yes, even hours are ruled by planets. For instance, a Mercury plant like Lavender is best gathered during the hour of the day ruled by Mercury. The aim was to pluck the herb/plant at its greatest potency.
Incidentally, astrology also played a very important role in early surgery. Operations were avoided around the New and Full Moon since the patient was likely to suffer haemorrhage. Could this be due to the gravity of the Moon pulling on the liquids of the body? By acting rather like a suction pump could it possibly slow down the blood's ability to coagulate? It is interesting that surgery grew out of the battlefield (ruled by Mars of course) where amputations were a common occurrence. The first anaesthetics were herbs of course, such as Opium and Hemp - narcotics that come under the rulership of Neptune, a planet associated with the unconscious.
Though many of our healing herbs are assigned planetary rulerships, the choice of relevant herbs in cases of illness was not a straightforward matter.
For instance, the sign of
Aries (20 March-20 April) is associated with the planet Mars and of course, they share similar characteristics. These include assertiveness, a pioneering spirit, drive and energy as well as anger. Associated conditions of the body might include fevers and skin complaints. There could also be weight gain if the Aries fails to adapt when slowing down with age. Eye problems may also be something to contend with. So Mars herbs, which as we have seen tend to be hot and dry, would only serve to increase those inflammatory conditions. It might therefore, be necessary to choose herbs that would balance some of the Martian characteristics.
Element: Fire
Colour: Reds and Amber
Characteristics:
Positive: Leader, Competitive, Courageous, Enthusiastic, Enterprising, Takes risks for others
Negative: Brash, Unaware of effect on others, Intolerance, Jealous, Impulsive, Selfish
Health Traits:
Skin problems, headaches, Eyes, Muscular aches and pains Neuralgia, sinus, weight gain with age
Medical Astrologer, Wanda Sellar, says:
"The sign of Aries is associated with the planet Mars and of course, they share similar characteristics. These include assertiveness, a pioneering spirit, drive and energy as well as anger. Associated conditions of the body might include fevers and skin complaints. There could also be weight gain if the Aries fails to adapt when slowing down with age. Eye problems may also be something to contend with. So Mars herbs, which tend to be hot and dry, would only serve to increase those inflammatory conditions, so herbs to balance those Martian characteristics would be a better choice: burdock, and the detoxing herb fennel, both beneficial for skin; and chamomile, a good choice because of its calming and cooling effect; Marshmallow could help with neuralgia and headaches and carrots are beneficial to the eyes."
The
Taurus (21 April-21 May) person, associated with Venus, is prone to over-indulgence and might need to clear his system occasionally. Taureans are known for their affectionate nature and usually their resistance to illness is quite strong. They are dependable, steadfast and the rock that other people build their dreams upon. They might get throat problems occasionally leading to soreness and respiratory ailments, but they often have a lovely singing voice.
Element: Earth
Colour: Pastel and Plant Greens
Characteristics:
Positive: Stable, Likes security, Reliable, Patient, Tenacious, Persistent, Methodical
Negative: Stubborn, Materialistic, Slow moving, Boring, Resistant to change
Health Traits:
Laid back/slow to action, Tonsillitis/Throat problems, Thyroid, Weight problems, Upper respiratory problems, Glands
Medical Astrologer, Wanda Sellar, says:
"The typical Taurean likes stability and security both emotionally and financially. They are reliable, persistent and tenacious, slow to anger and very patient, and they tend to finish what they begin. Often very successful in the artistic field with a fine voice, they make good cooks too. Associated with Venus, they are prone to over-indulgence and might need to clear their system occasionally. Taureans are known for their affectionate nature and usually their resistance to illness is quite strong. They are dependable, steadfast and the rock that other people build their dreams upon."
Gemini (22 May-21 June) associated with Mercury, is the Peter Pan of the zodiac, always young at heart and very active, but their mobility might put a strain on their nervous system and insomnia could result. Nervine type herbs, which calm those active neurones, would be a good choice. Gemini has many talents being so versatile and is usually a mine of information. Respiratory problems might be a problem occasionally as well as arthritis in the hands and shoulders.
Element: Air
Colour: Green and Spring Colours
Characteristics:
Positive: Lively, Versatile, Intelligent, Liberal minded, Inquisitive, Logical, Quick thinking, Good communicators
Negative: Restless, Quickly bored, Impatient and irritable, Nervous, Inconsistent, Non committal, Complex
Health traits:
Nervous exhaustion, Digestive upsets, Insomnia, Upper respiratory problems, Arthritis, especially hands and shoulders
Medical Astrologer, Wanda Sellar, says:
"The typical Gemini is intelligent and quick thinking. They are good communicators with a positive and lively attitude and sometimes have an inquisitive streak. They are very versatile and can turn their hand to almost anything. A mind like an encyclopaedia and a great deal of knowledge, they are often faced by many options and decisions are sometimes difficult. Gemini is associated with Mercury and is the Peter Pan of the Zodiac, young at heart and very active. However, their mobility might put a strain on their nervous system and joints. They are often prone to insomnia and also suffer with arthritis, especially in the hands and shoulders."
Cancer (22 June-22 July) ruled by the Moon bestows sensitivity and an extremely loving nature. That sensitive nature can sometimes upset the emotions and digestive problems may be the result. Herbs that help the flow of digestive juices might be helpful. Other conditions associated with Cancer include water retention. Their caring qualities ensure that they always have someone to love but lethargy could result if they feel lonely and isolated.
Element: Water
Colour: Creamy white and Yellow
Characteristics:
Positive: Protective, Tenacious, Kind, Intuitive, Instinctive
Negative: Possessive, Stubborn, Worriers, Selfish, Moody
Health Traits:
Nervous anxiety, Digestive upsets, Anaemia, Aching breasts, Depression, Coughs and Catarrh, Lethargy, Water retention
Medical Astrologer, Wanda Sellar, says:
"The typical Cancer is protective, warm and loving and needs someone to care for to make their lives meaningful. They may sometimes worry unduly, but only because they are emotionally vulnerable, but this should not be mistaken for softness because they can be strong when called upon to protect their loved ones. Cancer ruled by the Moon, bestows a sensitive nature, which can sometimes upset the emotions. Digestive problems may be the result; herbs that help the flow of digestive juices might be helpful. They have remarkably good intuition and their instinctive reactions and decisions can usually be relied upon."
Leos (23 July-20 August), ruled by the Sun, just radiate love and confidence and do not easily succumb to illness. Heart and back problems are associated with this sign so plants that are a tonic for the circulation might be helpful. Fevers are also a characteristic condition of Leos so cooling herbs would be a good choice too. Leadership qualities are associated with this sign.
Element: Fire
Colour: Reddish Orange and Yellow
Characteristics:
Positive: Honest & loyal, Generous, Creative, Strength, Frank, Organised, Sensitive
Negative: Domination, Arrogance, Sulkiness, Impatience, Indifference
Health Traits:
High fevers, Overweight, Back problems, Sudden illness, Overdo things - lack of relaxation, Circulatory problems
Medical Astrologer, Wanda Sellar, says:
"The typical Leo tends to be generous and creative with a flair for leadership. They tend to take over almost any situation but in a benevolent way and tend to get the best out of people. They are honest and extremely loyal and have an abundance of positive qualities. If they are sometimes proud, it is only because they want to present the best image to the world. Leo, ruled by the Sun, just radiates love and confidence and does not easily succumb to illness. Heart and back problems are associated with this sign, so plants that are a tonic for the circulation might be helpful."
Virgo (21 August-22 September) ruled by Mercury, is naturally interested in health matters and is usually found working in a health-related field. They tend to give their friends advice on nutrition since they are usually experts on the digestive system. Virgoans are known to suffer with abdominal or constipation problems - usually attributed to anxiety. They also tire easily - probably from overwork - and need a tonic occasionally.
Element: Earth
Colour: Greys and Browns
Characteristics:
Positive: Positive, Gentle, Modest, Hard working, Practical, Dedicated, Organised, Helpful
Negative: Negative, Scathing of the lazy, Undemonstrative, Hypochondria, Eccentric, Tendency to worry, Reserved
Health Traits:
Anxiety, Digestive disorders, Bowel disorders, Allergies, Hypochondria, Fatigue
Medical Astrologer, Wanda Sellar, says:
"Virgo ruled by Mercury, is naturally interested in health matters and is often found working in a health-related field. The typical Virgo is modest, gentle, hard working and practical. They like to do things to the best of their ability and are known for their accurate judgement but can be self-critical and have a tendency to worry. They are extremely good at detail and miss nothing. They suffer anxiety linked abdominal/constipation problems, sometimes they tire easily, usually from overwork, and occasionally need a tonic."
Libra (22 October-23 November) ruled by Venus, is charming and loved by all. Libra as most people know is the sign of balance and good health, based on homeostasis. This refers to the body's need to maintain a constant internal equilibrium to stay healthy. The kidneys take on this task, helping to remove the toxins. Lower back pain may be a problem if the kidneys are congested. A flush through with cleansing herbs may be helpful if these problems arise.
Element: Air
Colour: Pale Green and autumn colours
Characteristics:
Positive: Charm, Balance, Sincere, Diplomatic, Sociable, Fair, Prepared
Negative: Narcissistic, Sulky, Indecision, Fearful, Manipulative, Overbearing, Flirtatious
Health Traits:
Sweet tooth, Kidney Disorders, Liver disorders, Skin problems, Lower back problems
Medical Astrologer, Wanda Sellar, says:
"Libra ruled by Venus, is the sign of balance, and their good health is based on the body's need to maintain an internal equilibrium. The kidneys take on this task - lower back pain might be a problem if the kidneys are congested. At such times, a flush through with cleansing herbs may be helpful. The typical Libran has a charm that opens many doors for them and they tend to be popular with everyone. They love harmony in their lives and surround themselves with beautiful objects. They strive to find the right balance in everything they do. This might be in personal relationships or at work - in fact in any place they find themselves, they work to make everything run smoothly. They know just how to settle disagreements."
Scorpio (22 October-23November) ruled by Mars and Pluto, is naturally secretive, strong and thrives on difficult tasks. They have deep and penetrating minds and you cannot keep anything from them. Though they are good at keeping secrets from everyone else. They make good psychologists but might be prone to depression if they don't make time for fun and laughter. The urinary system and reproductive system are ruled by Scorpio and associated conditions would benefit by herbs allied with these systems.
Element: Water
Colour: Emerald Green, Red and Black
Characteristics:
Positive: Strong willed, Determined , Dynamic, Energetic, Tenacious, Sensual, Compassionate
Negative: Obsessive, Ruthless, Possessive, Obstinate, Suspicious, Secretive, Intolerant
Health Traits:
Over Indulgence, Depression, Nose and throat, Bladder problems, Reproductive organ disorders, Digestive problems
Medical Astrologer, Wanda Sellar, says:
"The sign of Scorpio, ruled by Mars and Pluto, is naturally secretive, strong and thrives on difficult tasks. They have deep and penetrating minds and you cannot keep anything from them, though they are good at keeping secrets from everyone else. They make good psychologists but might be prone to depression if they don't make time for fun and laughter. Scorpio rules the urinary system and reproductive system and associated conditions would benefit by herbs allied with these systems."
There is often a feeling of joy and optimism surrounding the
Sagittarius (24 November-21 December) person - the associated planet is Jupiter. Honest and outspoken, they value their freedom and hate restriction. Perhaps that is why Sagittarius rules the hips and thighs, responsible for movement. The sciatic nerve, the longest nerve running down the nether region of the body, is linked to Sagittarius. Herbs good for bones and nerves would probably be beneficial. Overdoing things might lead to weight problems.
Element: Fire
Colour: Blue, Pale Yellow and White
Characteristics:
Positive: Positive , Friendly, Enthusiastic, Honest & fair minded, Spiritual, Inspiring
Negative: Negative, Indulgent, Argumentative, Risk taking, Fanatical, Impatient
Health Traits:
Arthritic problems, Hip and joint problems, Weight , Asthmatic, Stomach upsets , Over indulgence
Medical Astrologer, Wanda Sellar, says:
"There is often a feeling of joy and optimism surrounding the Sagittarius person - the associated planet is Jupiter. They have a positive attitude to life that will help them succeed in all their enterprises. They may travel widely since they have a strong appetite for knowledge and is attracted to the unusual and exotic. They are friendly, gregarious, and abound with enthusiasm. It is hard to resist their laughter and good humour. They have the gift of inspiring others and may be interested in the spiritual side of life, yet may be quite sporty too. Honest and outspoken, they value their freedom and hate restriction. Perhaps that is why Sagittarius rules the hips and thighs, responsible for movement. The sciatic nerve, the longest nerve running down the nether region of the body, is linked to Sagittarius. Herbs good for bones and nerves would probably be beneficial."
Capricorn (22 December-20 January) ruled by Saturn, has a serious approach to life but also the ability to shoulder the kind of responsibilities that defeats others. Too many burdens placed upon them though, might lead to depression. Capricorn rules the skeletal system, the framework upon which the body hangs. So suffering with aches and pains of the bones and such things as arthritis and sprains might be the Capricorn's lot occasionally. Herbs helpful for the skeletal system would give the old bones a boost. Yet Capricorns are known to get better as they get older which means they hardly ever look their age.
Element: Earth
Colour: Purple and Brown
Characteristics:
Positive: Organisers, Cautious & Realistic, Hard working, Scrupulous, Calculated risk taker, High standards, Loyal to tradition
Negative: Unforgiving, Egotistical, Anxious, Critical, Perfectionist, Fatalistic
Health Traits:
Arthritis, Skin complaints, Depression, Teeth problems
Medical Astrologer, Wanda Sellar, says:
"Capricorn ruled by Saturn, has a serious approach to life but also the ability to shoulder the kind of responsibilities that defeat others. Too many burdens placed upon them though, might lead to depression. They work hard to achieve their goals but they do know how to enjoy themselves. They have a dry sense of humour but never try to offend. They have a very good sense of timing and know exactly when to make the decision that really counts. Capricorn rules the skeletal system, the framework upon which the body hangs. So suffering with aches and pains of the bones and such things as arthritis and sprains might be the Capricorn's lot occasionally. Herbs helpful for the skeletal system would give the old bones a boost. Yet Capricorns are known to get better as they get older which means they hardly ever look their age."
Aquarius (21 January- 20 February) also ruled by Saturn as well as Uranus, is a person with a touch of genius about them though they may be a little eccentric. No matter, it's difficult to dislike them, since they are often so friendly. Aquarius rules the ankles and calves which can sometimes become swollen. Is it because Aquarians are so often on the move? They hardly have time to sit down and just might suffer with varicose veins as well. A tonic for the lymphatic and circulatory system would probably be helpful.
Element: Air
Colour: Burgundy, Grey and Silver
Characteristics:
Positive: Independence, Loyal, Inspiring, Creative, Thoughtful & Caring
Negative: Self interested, Stubborn, Unreliable, Paradoxical, Uncertainty
Health Traits:
Circulatory problems, Nervous system, Stress, Calf and lower leg problems
Medical Astrologer, Wanda Sellar, says:
"Aquarius also ruled by Saturn as well as Uranus, is a person with a touch of genius about them although they may be a little eccentric. No matter, it's difficult to dislike them, since they are often so friendly, broadminded and easy to get along with. Yet they like to operate according to their own rules and often strike out on their own. They are never alone as they can easily converse with strangers. They are very thoughtful, caring and creative particularly in science and new technology. Aquarius rules the ankles and calves, which can sometimes become swollen. Is it because Aquarians are so often on the move? They hardly have time to sit down and just might suffer with varicose veins as well. A tonic for the lymphatic and circulatory system would probably be helpful."
Pisces (21 February-19 March), ruled by Jupiter and Neptune, is the kind of person who lives in a dream world but then this might be a prerequisite to the wonderful works of art Pisceans produce. They are sensitive and soak up the emotions around them and have to be careful to avoid negative situations. Experience tells them how to look after themselves. They therefore need a tonic for the metabolism. They also suffer with their feet and need a herbal tonic that will revive their aches and pains.
Element: Water
Colour: Blue, Green and Purple
Characteristics:
Positive: Sensitive, Sympathetic, Caring, Intuitive, Creative
Negative: Gullible, Dependent, Depressive, Indecisive, Idealistic
Health Traits:
Imagined problems, Depression, Emotional problems, Foot problems, Nervous stomach, Weak metabolism
Medical Astrologer, Wanda Sellar, says:
"Pisces, ruled by Jupiter and Neptune, is the kind of person who lives in a dream world but then this might be a prerequisite to the wonderful works of art Pisceans produce. The typical Piscean is sensitive and sympathetic to others with an ability to soak up the emotions around them. They should be careful to avoid negative situations. They rarely put themselves first since they derive pleasure from making others happy. They have strong healing qualities, are very intuitive and have great understanding. Experience tells them how to look after themselves. They therefore need a tonic for the metabolism. They also suffer with their feet and need a herbal tonic that will revive their aches and pains."
The personality traits of the above Zodiac signs, described with their associated illnesses, were probably a form of rudimentary psychology, and may have helped the physician dispense some good advice along with his healing potions. Many people today believe that certain stresses associated with particular personality traits can be catalytic for particular diseases. In other words it seems that personality, at least from an astrological viewpoint, can be linked to illness conditions. Yet it is important to bear in mind that personality traits and the various aches and pains associated with each sign describes possibilities and not certainties. Though our Sun signs can be of some general guide to our health, astrological healing methods can be quite intricate and complicated. Culpeper for instance, would draw up a chart for the moment he saw a patient to determine which signs and planets were responsible for the disease in order to choose the relevant herbs to offset the problem. He was very successful and of course, his name lives on today. |
