The awakening of Spring during April/May
is full of special scents and astrological events. Scents
rise warmly from the Earth to surround us and support us during
the transition of the paradigm shift when Saturn (responsibility
and structure) moves from (earthy) Taurus into (multi-tasking)
Gemini on April 20 for the next 2 ½ years. Also, extremes
and tension can become the norm during this Gemini-Jupiter
(diverse opportunity) opposing Sagittarius-Pluto (social power/responsibility)
period. We are fortunate to have a soothing tool to help us
personally balance this polarizing dichotomy.
Plant essences and extracts have been
used to create potent aromatic, supportive substances for
over 4,000 years throughout the world. Fragrances can still
soothe and heal us today with the correct application of extracted
essential oils. Most simply, you can feel the therapeutic
effect by breathing the aromatic vapors of essential oils,
or by using them in scent diffusers, baths or massage oils.
Plants and herbs have been categorized
astrologically too, due to their specific properties and influences.
For example, the immune system can be supported through aromatherapy
by promoting ease. This counteracts the stress of juggling
the myriad, copious amounts of Gemini activities and information
abounding in this new paradigm! Fortunately, we can purchase
aromatics over the counter or grow an aromatic plant on a
windowsill or in a garden. Whichever way you choose to use
aromatherapy, it can help to improve your lifestyle. So let's
astrologically explore 12 beautiful aromatherapy scents which
complement your Sun or Moon Sign because of their restorative
properties.
Fiery, initiating Aries is supported
through Rosemary. Rosmarinus Officinalis is a
perennial ruled by the Sun. A wonderful nerve/circulation
stimulant, it's known to improve confidence and perception,
and to enhance memory-hence, the Shakespearean quote "and
rosemary for remembrance." Easily cultivated in our
sunny climate, it may be used for a splendid hair rinse
and facial toner- Aries rules the head and scalp.
Steadfast, sensual Taurus is
supported through Rose. Rosa Centifola, Damascena
and Gallica, ruled by Venus, are favored for scent,
beauty, and especially their aphrodisiac qualities. Mythically,
the rose is purported to have sprung from the blood of Adonis,
while in Turkish lore it represents the blood of Venus herself-the
Taurean ruler. Also, its trifold qualities soothe the vascular,
digestive and nervous systems. Rose eases over-indulgence
in food and spirits! This gentle oil benefits the skin and
was favored highly by the Queen of the Nile, Cleopatra.
Adaptable, versatile Gemini
is supported through Lavender, Lavandula Officinalis.
This aromatic is as versatile as its Mercurial ruler
and combines well with many other oils affecting the conscious
mind. It helps dispel depression and calm mood swings. Distilled
in water, it helps laryngitis. Wonderfully fragrant and
effective in soothing many skin ailments, lavender helps
to counteracts insect bites-even those of the black widow,
since it supports skin regeneration!
Gentle, tender Cancer is ruled
by the Moon and supported by Chamomile, Roman Anthemis
Noblis. Its fragrant, sweet properties help the female
reproductive system, balancing PMS-a lunar sensitivity.
The tea soothes the digestive tract and nerves by reducing
irritability through its anti-inflammatory properties. Also
used as a sweet rinse for the hair and to ease skin complaints,
chamomile is a disinfectant and antiseptic-a few drops in
the bath can lessen pain.
Courageous, bold Leo is supported
by Frankincense, Bowellia Carteri, ruled by the Sun.
This rich, highly prized aromatic derived from African/Middle
Eastern tree resin has long been valued for use in religious
rites. Its aromatic, curative properties relax and revitalize
simultaneously. Frankincense calms the nerves while supporting
single-mindedness, thus permitting the Leonian spirit to
soar.
Methodical, conscientious, Mercury-ruled
Virgo is supported by Peppermint, Mentha Piperita,
for enhancing mental clarity. A widely favored aromatic
stimulant with astringent qualities, it's used to alleviate
headaches and depression. Mentha (Mint) was an attractive
Nymph desired by Pluto. His wife Persephone pursued her
and, upon her capture, jealously crushed Mentha into the
Earth. However, Pluto redeemed Mentha by transforming her
into a wonderfully fragrant, healing plant. Invigorating
and refreshing, Peppermint also stabilizes digestive disorders.
Sweet, ever-balancing Libra is
supported by Venusian-ruled Geranium, Pelargonium Graveolens,
for its tonic properties. Moderation is not always a Libran
trait; this anti-inflammatory aromatic balances the nervous
system while stimulating the lymphatic system. Its refreshing
quality helps the adrenals regulate hormones and assists
as an anti-inflammatory.
Intense, passionate Scorpio
is supported by Basil, Ocimum Basilicum, ruled by
Mars. This annual, a spicy aromatic, is known for its medicinal
and culinary traits. Also an aphrodisiac, symbolizing Scorpionic
faithfulness, Basil calms and clarifies while enhancing
concentration.
Optimistic, gypsy-spirited Sagittarius
is supported by Jupiterian ruled Sage, Salvia Officinalis
or Clary Sage Salvia Sclarea, both evergreen perennials.
Clary Sage was known as "clear eye" in the Middle
Ages due to its ocular curative ability. Its musky scent
and its euphoric and relaxing qualities offset Sagittarian
zeal while balancing the nerves. The transcendental qualities
of Sage smoke-smudging have been revered in Native American
ritual.
Persevering, modest Capricorn
is supported by Saturn-ruled Patchouli, Pogostemon Cablin,
an earthy, sweet aromatic. It is well known in the perfume
industry as a rich fixative. Patchouli helps relieve anxiety
and depression and dispels Capricornian doubt while synergistically
stimulating action.
Idealistic, trend-setting Aquarius
is supported by Saturnian ruled Eucalyptus, Eucalyptus
Globulus, an anti-bacterial penetrating aromatic. Known
for its pulmonary supportive ability, Eucalyptus inhibits
the spread of infection by oxygenating the blood, reducing
inflammation and increasing expectorant qualities of the
body. Its scent combats fatigue and energizes multifaceted
Aquarius.
Intuitive, sensitive Pisces is
supported by Jasmine, Jasminum Officinalis, ruled
by the water element. Its rich, exotic scent's classification
is debated (showing Piscean duality) but the transcendental
aromatic effect is not. In China, Jasmine's scent is considered
feminine. It is known to assist with childbirth, and it
balances the reproductive system. Treasured as an aphrodisiac,
Jasmine's renowned gentling ability helps to dissolve indifference
and favorably influences Piscean dream states.
These are but 12 of Earth's glorious
scents. Enjoy!
