Apothecary & Astrology: Aries & Libra

ARIES—THE RAM

(March 20-April 19)

Element: Fire—Passionate, Kinetic, Inspired

Planet: Mars—Courage, Desire, Action

Body Parts Ruled: The Head, Muscles & Blood, Adrenals

Aries is the ultimate fire sign. It epitomises vitality, as it is spark of Spring—fresh, youthful, and bright. You can just feel an Aries. They like to take health head-on, just like its’ symbol, a charging ram. Health and wellness bring out Aries’ warrior side, seen best in how the sign sets strong goals with great determination.

Imbalances show up as Aries starting projects and not completing them, rushing, overexertion, and a loss of focus.

This dynamic energy makes Aries accident-prone—given to head injuries, torn or strained muscles—burnout, and nervous tension.

Aries rules the head, muscles and blood, and adrenals. Managing headaches, migraines, brain injury, jaw clenching, and eyestrain are important for this sign, as well as supporting muscles with good circulation and refractory periods that prevent cramping and injuries.

Additionally, Aries defines hotheadedness. Be mindful of areas such as inflammation, insomnia, and anger.

Use cooling nervines – herbs such as Lemon Balm, Peppermint, Skullcap, Passionflower, and Oats.

LIBRA – THE SCALES

(September 23- October 22)

Element: Air— Conversational, Balanced, Temperate

Planet: Venus— Art, Beauty, Social Grace

Body Parts Ruled: Kidneys + Low Back / Skin

Aries’ opposite sign is Libra, which stands at the Autumnal Equinox. Equally in the light and in the dark, a balance of day and night, Libra cultivates temperance.

Our energy, while very much still focused on our external world, begins to draw inward.

The scales scales reflect Libra’s inner equilibrium. You have a need for balance in all things, but especially in Venus-ruled arenas— your social circles and environment.

Libra resonates with beauty, and Mother Nature can offer it in spades. Show off your affinity for the great outdoors. Libras can benefit from natural remedies.

Loving partners in relationships, they try to avoid disharmony at home, as this can lead to physical and stress-related health issues.

Take time aside from the din of the crowd to recalibrate and center themselves so that they can restore balance and fairness. Accepting their individual needs may also mean that sometimes what’s best for Libra isn’t best for everyone else, and that’s okay as long as they are honest.

If they can learn to acknowledge and present their own needs, they can understand their own biases and boundaries and more readily ally with others to find creative, mutually-beneficial solutions.

Libra plants include catnip, marjoram, ashwagandha, nettle, yarrow, mugwort, rooibos, thyme, and spearmint.