Aroma Therapy
AROMATHERAPY is emerging as a popular holistic treatment. People are looking for new means to relieve themselves of stress and are focusing on total well being of the mind and body. What better can one get than the combination of astrology and aromatherapy?
This unique combination is a branch of aromatherapy that focuses exclusively on the characteristic traits of the individual based on his zodiac signs. Have you ever wondered why a particular fragrance smells differently on different people? This is because our individuality is different and is determined by our Sun Signs.
Our zodiac signs are divided into four elements namely earth, air, water and fire. A person belonging to a particular zodiac sign has a specific element that respond better to certain fragrances or flower extracts. This science belongs to the ancient civilizations of the world and is in a revival phase once again. The great 17th century herbalist and apothecary, Nicholas Culpeper write several books that combined facts about herbal medicine and astrology. He ascribed a ruling planet to each plant and thus made it easier for one to distinguish his/her essential oil.
Planetary influences have a deep impact on our senses and include a great deal of knowledge and wisdom. If you know your fragrance you are likely to develop a better relationship with it and achieve great benefits from its regular use.
Aries (21 March-20 April): Aries is a fire sign and its ruling planet is Mars.
Quality: Cardinal
Signature Oil: Rosemary
The Zodiac year begins with the sign of Aries, the Ram. The sun enters this sign at the spring equinox in the Northern Hemisphere, a time of new energy and the beginning of the ‘natural year’ as opposed to the calendar year.
This sign is related to the head and Ariens are often prone to headaches, migraine, catarrh, sinusitis and other problems affecting the head. Fortunately, all these conditions respond very well to aromatherapy treatments. The planet associated with Aries is Mars and is fiery in nature. Thus it is wise to look to Mars plants and essential oils in order to restore some of their innate energy. These are typically fiery ones such as Black Pepper or Ginger.
Conversely, when an Aries person is agitated or stressed, the soothing effect can be brought by using oils ruled by Venus such as Rose and Geranium. Ariens are also vulnerable to fevers and inflammations which need to be cooled down by using Moon-related oils such as Camomile or Melissa.
If you are an Arien who is prone to depression, Sun oils are most helpful as they bring the fire element in a gentler way. The Sun in recognized as the ruler of the resins: Benzoin, Frankincense and Myrrh, all of which have warming properties along with their calming and meditative properties. The ‘happy oils’, Bergamot and Orange also belong to this category and are great anti-depressants.
Taurus (21 April-21 May): Taurus is an earth sign and its ruling planet is Venus.
Quality: Fixed
Signature Oil: Rose
The Taurus Bull is known for its shrewd appreciation of assets and values, both maternal belongings as well as intangible assets such as talents and capabilities but they also tend to indulge in all the pleasures of the flesh such as food, wine and sex. Venus is the ruling planet known as the Goddess of Love and patron of beauty and the arts. Taureans are talented and possess a keen aesthetic sense. They appreciate fine clothes, comfort and tasteful surroundings. Taureans tend to overindulge at times that can lead to digestive difficulties, weight problems or cellulite. They love the sensuous delight of fine aromas and are likely to respond well to therapeutic massage.
Taurus governs the neck and shoulders which are often stiff and tense as all the worries are stored up there. They are also prone to throat infections and sometimes to thyroid deficiency.
Taureans dote on the luxurious oils ruled by Venus such as Rose, Geranium, Sandalwood and Ylang-Ylang. For digestive troubles, Caraway is the best oil for Taureans and Fennel is great for eliminating the results of Taurean overindulgence.
Gemini (22 May- 22June): Gemini is an air sign and its ruling planet is mercury.
Quality: Mutable
Signature Oil: Basil
Gemini is affiliated with mercury, the planet of communication and understanding. Gemini people tend to have lively minds, quick, versatile, enquiring, sociable and may have a higher than average IQ. They make great speakers and writers. Charming Geminis also tend to be flirtatious, though in a very innocent way. Their natural responsibility leads them to shift from one interest to another, change careers, homes or marriage partners more often than what others might find comfortable. They also have the habit of taking too many commitments at once. They are likely to be subdued by mental stress as the Gemini mind is restless and these people find it difficult to relax. Insomnia can also be a major problem in Geminis accompanies with depression and anxiety.
Some Geminis have the tendency to skip meals or eat too much of junk and food. They neglect sleep and exercise because they are totally preoccupied with their metal processes.
Gemini rules the arms, lungs and the central nervous system. Rheumatic or arthritic pains have long been treated as typically Gemini problems. Geminis are also prone to bronchitis or asthma, particularly in childhood and there is often a tendency to breathe too shallowly, which can contribute to feelings of nervousness or even panic.
Mercury is associated with a great deal of plants and essential oils, of which Lavender can be very useful in treating Gemini problems. Basil, the signature oil is useful in treating lung infections and asthma as well as helping with mental alertness when the Gemini is feeling tired or down. Thyme and Peppermint can have the same effect while lavender can slow down the overactive mind.
Cancer (23 June-23 July): Cancer is a water sign and its ruling planet is the Moon.
Quality: Cardinal
Signature Oil: Blue Camomile
The Sun enters the sign of Cancer at the time of the summer solstice, the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. The home is important to Cancerians, not only as the physical place where they feel safe, but as the place where the family belongs. Mothering and parenthood are most important to Cancerians.
Cancer dominates the stomach and pancreas and digestive problems of emotional origin are very common in this sign. Cancerians are often ‘secret worriers’ and tend to keep their concerns to themselves. Cancerians are likely to have long mood swings and in a few extreme cases even paranoia. Cancerians may not be some of the easiest people to help with aromatherapy however essential oils do good to them as well.
Moon-ruled oils are of a cooling nature and most Cancerians need to be warmed up during times of distress. Just as the Moon reflects the Sun’s light, most Cancerians benefit from oils ruled by the Sun such as Benzoin, Bergamot, Orange or Tangerine.
Leo (24 July-23 Aug): Leo is a fire sign and its ruling planet is the Sun.
Quality: Fixed
Signature Oil: Jasmine
Leo is traditionally the sign of kings and by extension to political leaders. It is also the sign of a performer— an actor, musician, dancer or pop star. Leos suffer of their creativity is blocked due to various reasons. This is also the sign of fun, hobbies and leisure pursuits and Leo people need adequate time for recreation.
Leo correlates with the heart and the arterial circulation. Leos are prone to high blood pressure, palpitations or more serious heart problems. Aromatherapy helps these people relax and de-stress.
Calming oils such as Camomile or Melissa possessing the qualities of Venus have a good calming effect on Leos. Ylang-Ylang, Venus oil is particularly helpful with heart palpitations. If a Leo has undergone a break-up or defeat in career, he is likely to be prone to depression. Sun oils such as Benzoin or Myrrh are beneficial.
Virgo (24 August-23 September): Virgo is an earth sign and its ruling planet is Mercury.
Quality: Mutable
Signature Oil: Lavender
The Sun moves through this sign during the season of harvest and Virgo was originally associated with the mother-goddess. Virgo is the sign of service and work and is often associated with health and healing. Virgos have a deep need to feel they are doing something useful and worthwhile.
The Virgo keenness of mind shows itself in precision and attention to details. Most Virgos are very particular about their surroundings and what they want to achieve from them. They tend to be highly organized and make excellent accountants, librarians, indexers, or proofreaders, though if taken to extremes this ability can sometimes become nit-picking, critical or obsession.
The Virgo ideals often lead these people to put their own needs secondary to the needs of others and health problems tend to arise as a result of this. They work for long hours and carry on even when exhausted.
Anaemia is a common problem Virgos need to add nutritious food to their diet in order to make up for this. Many Virgos worry endlessly and are liable to stress. Virgo dominates the liver, solar plexus and lower digestive tract. These areas are where problems are likely to arise when Virgos overwork or worry endlessly. Ulcers and colitis are common problems among Virgos that can be helped by essential oils.
Mercury is Virgo’s ruling planet and many of the herbs that are appropriate for Virgos include Caraway, Fennel and Peppermint which are helpful for the digestive system. Lavender helps induce relaxation that Virgos often deny themselves and for the deep nurturing of their mind they need Rose or Jasmine.
Libra (24 September-23 October): Libra is an air sign and its ruling planet is Venus.
Quality: Cardinal
Signature Oil: Geranium
Libra symbolizes a pair of scales and is the only sign represented by an inanimate object. Justice, fairness and balance are very important to Librans. They are known to view both sides of a coin before reaching the conclusion. Libra is the diplomatic peacekeeper of the Zodiac.
The Roman understanding of Libra revolves around the fact that the Sun this sign at the autumn equinox and Libra the two halves of the year in balance.
Libra is associated with the kidneys and lower back. Lower back pain can be treated with the help of aromatherapy. Geranium, Rose and Ylang-Ylang will appeal to the Libran taste for luxury. For the digestive problems oils like Angelica, Cardamom and Cinnamon are great while Fennel is an excellent detoxifier and diuretic. For low back pain, warming analgesics such as Marjoram or Rosemary are recommended.
Scorpio (24 October- 22 November): Scorpio is a water sign and its ruling planets are Mars and Pluto.
Quality: Fixed
Signature Oil: Patchouli
Scorpio marks the descent into winter and the association with ghosts and ghouls ahs something in common with Scorpio’s nature. Pluto, its ruling planet represents the underworld, the domain of phantoms and many of the legends associated with the constellation of Scorpio concern he descent of a hero into some lower world and his eventual return to the light.
Scorpio is the deepest and most secretive of all zodiac signs and people falling under this sign have very strong emotion but find it difficult to express them. The traditional ruler of this sign, Mars is associated with energy, but in Scorpio this energy may be dormant and hidden.
Scorpios don’t readily ask for help and tend to believe in self-medication. Scorpio is associated with the urino-genital system, the colon and (in men) the prostrate gland.
A Scorpio will benefit from Mars oils, those that bring stimulating warmth such as Pine, Ginger or Black Pepper. Sun oils might be helpful too: Rosemary is an immediate choice also Jasmine or Bergamot if there is depression.
Sagittarius (23 November-22 December): Sagittarius is a fire sign and its ruling planet is Jupiter.
Quality: Mutable
Signature Oil: Black Pepper
Sagittarius is the last of fire signs associated less with the Sun and more with the fires of mid-winter celebrations. Sagittarians are inquisitive and enthusiastic and want to clarify and comprehend. They are sociable people, genuinely interested in other people, open spontaneous and optimistic. They love conversation, especially if it involves philosophical or metaphysical matters though this can become one sided. They have a well-developed sense of humour which they often extend to practical jokes and clowning. In close relationships, the value truth and almost above anything else and any form of deceit on part of their partner can bring the relationship to an end.
Sagittarians are most often very physical people, energetic, quick-moving and strong. This sign is associated with the hips and thighs and they may seek help in aromatherapy.
Sciatica is a problem where massage and baths with essential oils may prove helpful in Sagittarians. For exhaustion they can rely on Mars oils like Marjoram and Nutmeg or Ginger, Pine or Black Pepper for acute depletion. When a Sagittarian is suffering from jittery nerves and is almost insomniac, Rosewood would be the ideal oil owing to its association with Jupiter and the higher mind.
Capricorn (23 December-19 January): Capricorn is an earth sign and its ruling planet is Saturn.
Quality: Cardinal
Signature Oil: Vetivert
Capricorn is the deepest of the Earth signs. Its ruling planet, Saturn represents time, responsibilities, boundaries authority etc. Saturn people tend to value tradition and like order in work, friendships and relationships. They take all responsibilities very seriously and show immense courage in defending others.
The part of the body associated with Capricorn is the knees which might result I joint pains due to conditions of the bone, muscles or tendons around the knee joint. Warming oils associated with the Sun, Jupiter or even Mars are helpful.
Saturn is also associated with the skin and aromatherapy is highly effective in this area. Capricorns are also highly prone to stress and exhaustion. Birch, which is one of the few oils attributed to Saturn is analgesic and anti-inflammatory and is an ideal choice for joint pain. Capricorns will appreciate oils with a deep aroma such as Cedarwood and Vetivert.
Aquarius 20 January-19 February): Aquarius is an air sign and its ruling planet is Uranus.
Quality: Fixed
Signature Oil: Neroli
Aquarians are attracted to new ideas, new technologies, anything conventional or unorthodox and are often ahead of their times. They tend to dislike routine and will be much happier working in unusual settings that offer plenty of variety or being self-employed. Many Aquarians are social reformers though their revolutionary ideas tend to stay that way. They have a certain reputation for coldness and aloofness which may be because they are reluctant to confide their thoughts or feelings to anybody but their closest friends, who are probably few in number. In a relationship, mental rapport is often the most important consideration and their ideal partner is one who will respect their independence and the need to be alone at times.
Aquarius is associated with the lower legs, particularly the ankles and the circulation in this part of the body. Varicose veins are a common problem and strains of the Achilles tendon, sprained ankles or ankles swollen due to fatigue and standing for long periods of time are also common. Deep, grounding oils, particularly those associated with Saturn can help Aquarians connect with their body.
Vetivert and Cypress would be an ideal choice to improve blood circulation also recommended for varicose veins. To tone the ankles or strengthen them when recovering from a sprain, massage hot or compress with warming Sun or Mars oils and for cold compress, Camomile is the best choice.
Pisces (20 February-20 March): Pisces is a water sign and its ruling planet is Neptune.
Quality: Mutable
Signature Oil: Melissa
Pisces is associated with Neptune, a planet that can deeply inspire great idealism, spiritual aspirations or artistic inspiration, but on the downside, Pisceans can be elf-deluding or duplicitous.
Pisceans are prone to addiction, not necessarily to a physical substance, it may as well be an idea. They love aromatic massages, water being their key element. They require psychological warmth which can be brought on by oils like Bergamot, Jasmine and Frankincense.
Essential oils (characterstics)
BERGAMOT – Promotes confidence & courage. Eases tension, anxiety, worry and depression. Helps regulate menstrual cycle, relieve P.M.S. and menopause. Antiseptic properties aid skin problems such as acne. Helps heal cold sores. Caution: Increases photosensitivity: don’t apply before exposure to direct sunlight.
CHAMOMILE – Gentle, calming, soothing. Eases depression, stress, anger and irritability. Aids insomnia. Soothes sensitive or irritated skin. Soothing massage for painful muscles or joints.
CLARY SAGE – Brings tranquility to the mind and emotions, calms anxiety. Promotes deep sleep and vivid dreams. Helps regulate menstrual cycle and relieve P.M.S. Regenerates skin cells, excellent for skin care. Promotes hair growth. Don’t use during pregnancy.
EUCALYPTUS – Purifies and clears negative energy. Helps alleviate grief and sorrow. Antiseptic and antimicrobial properties useful for respiratory infections.
JASMINE – Emotionally warming and uplifting. Stimulates creativity, imagination, fantasy and dreams. Eases depression, apathy, lack of confidence. Soothes and rehydrates skin.
LAVENDER – Brings clarity, peace of mind, emotional balance. Eases insomnia, depression, stress, impatience, worry and shock. Helps regulate menstrual cycle and relieve P.M.S.. Helps alleviate headaches. Strong antiseptic and antimicrobial properties useful for burns & wounds, colds, flu, and skin irritations. May use undiluted.
LEMON – Promotes mental clarity and decisiveness. Energizing, brings cheer and humor into ones life. Digestive tonic. Aids healing of wounds and infections. Dilute before using. Caution: Increases photosensitivity: don’t apply before exposure to direct sunlight.
ORANGE – Encourages trust, confidence, and tolerance. Bright and cheerful. Promotes friendly interactions with others. Relaxing and calming. Caution: Increases photosensitivity: don’t apply before exposure to direct sunlight.
PATCHOULI – Encourages individuality, centeredness and stability. Alleviates fatigue, confusion and depression. Helps regenerate skin cells, useful for skin problems.
PEPPERMINT – Helps clear negative energy. Stimulates the mind, aids concentration and decisiveness. Helps relieve symptoms of cold and flu, aids digestion. Flavoring for herbal products such as breath freshener. Don’t use during pregnancy.
ROSE – Awakens, inspires and brightens the heart. Enhances creativity and invokes appreciation of beauty and harmony. Relieves tension, depression, sadness and grief. Balances and regulates female reproductive system. Aids regeneration of skin cells, excellent for skin problems and general skin care.
ROSEMARY – Promotes self-confidence, courage. Stimulates mental clarity, memory, and creativity. Rejuvenates skin cells. Stimulates hair growth. Aids healing of wounds. Don’t use during pregnancy.
SANDALWOOD – Quiets mind and emotions. Relaxing, calming, eases stress, tension and fear. Soothing, moisturizing and astringent for the skin.
TANGERINE – Inspires sensitivity and empathy. Brings cheer and light. Calms stress and tension. Caution: Increases photosensitivity: don’t apply before exposure to direct sunlight.
TEA TREE – Antibacterial and antifungal oil useful for treating acne, cold sores, eczema, rashes, candida. Useful for many types of wounds, burns, and infections. May use full strength.
YLANG YLANG – Inspires creativity and appreciation for beauty. Euphoric, eases depression, calms nerves and soothes negative emotions. Eases P.M.S. Stimulates hair growth. Balances oily skin.