MARS HERBAL ASTROLOGY

Mars has intense yang and dynamic characteristics, similar to the Sun yet with its own distinct qualities. The Sun represents the spiritual heart and consciousness where as Mars is the warrior archetype who is associated with war, martial arts, blood, aggression, intensity, violence and anger. It represents physical strength, muscle, and desire for action. Mars is an intense force that must be balanced with the Sun, otherwise it can be disastrous.

It is commonly related to manipura chakra, or the solar plexus, as it is the centre of will, action and strength. The Martian constitution has medium height with an athletic build, similar to solar types. They are considered Pitta and are prone to heat, oily skin, loud voices, intense personalities, and rage or anger if unbalanced.

The red planet’s main element is iron, which corresponds to the blood and shows it’s infinity towards blood circulation, iron levels, etc. Interesting enough, most war weapons in traditional times were made of iron, a clear indication of Mars effect on Earth if unbalanced. Mars people are often described as “hot blooded” who are angered easily and go red in the face. It takes approximately 2 years for Mars to orbit the sun, and any parent knows that a toddler starts to develop willpower by learning the word “No!” around 2 years old. Mars location in the birth chart represents an area in life that will require great personal strength and willpower. Mars rules both Aries and Scorpio.

MARS CHARACTERISTICS

When Mars is in excess, we see excessive sweating, fevers, irritability, low sperm count, rapid pulse, red skin and nervous exhaustion. The tongue will be red and pointed or “flame shaped”. It leads to dryness in tissues as heat draws out oils from the nervous system and causes irritability.

Deficient Mars will lead to insufficient blood circulation, cold hands or feet, anemia, blood deficiency, pale skin, lack of oxygen in the blood, “dirty blood” syndrome, adrenal fatigue, muscular degeneration, low libido, sluggish energy, and lack of courage. The pulse will be weak and the tongue will be pale with a white coating. Mars governs the adrenal glands which are responsible for the “fight or flight” response, a necessary instinct for survival in dangerous situations. However, when it becomes a chronic state of being, it ultimately depletes our vital energy and “burns” us out.

The psychological lesson from Mars teaches us to use our willpower and take action. It gives us the warrior spirit that gives us strength to express ourselves in the world. In a balanced expression, we see people with courage and strength who have the ability to take on life’s challenges. They aren’t passive and work hard to shape the world they want. However, it’s important for Mars to live in accordance with the Sun, so that the action is to fight for what is good and true. Mars gives us the strength to face our own inner demons and work on the shadow aspects of ourselves. If someone is lacking Mars, we see a tendency to blame others for problems due to lack of courage and strength. Fear stops them from moving forward in life.

Mars teaches us to stand strong in who we are and what we believe in, to live with purpose, and to not cower under pressure but to face it. He teaches us that courage is not the absence of fear, but the strength to face it. Through Mars we reclaim our power and take action that is guided towards our highest good.

Herbs of Mars

Mars plants strongly move blood, assist in reducing inflammation, warm the body, support gallbladder function, and increase digestive fire. They support the bodies response to stress and help us adapt and restore.

The evolutionary function of Mars plants help us reclaim strength and personal power, imbuing a warrior spirit within each of us. Mars plants can be used for physical and spiritual protection that help place healthy boundaries within our lives. They help us tap into personal power and increase our decisiveness, courage, and ability to take action.

• Herbs for energy: Nettle, Coffee, Gingko, Rhodiola, Ginseng, Ginger, Cayenne, Maca

• Herbs for blood circulation: Nettle, Echinacea, Oregon Grape Root, Rehmannia

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