Herbal Medicine through the Zodiac: Aries (Mars, Fire, Cardinal)
March 21st - April 20th
Mars | Fire | Cardinal (Pitta)
As the first sign of the Zodiac, we can think of Aries as the first spark of creation; the something that emerges from the nothing.
Aries initiates the zodiac at the time of the Spring Equinox. The Spring and Summer seasons are our Yang dominant Seasons, and Aries is a perhaps the most Yang heavy sign of all the 12 signs.
Aries are known for being wilful, strong, passionate and fiery. They have a beautiful sense of bravery and adventure, not afraid to seek out that which is new. They are sharp, intelligent and, when balanced, great at initiating action.
The evolutionary process of Aries lies in discernment and focus- choosing what is most important, and put their attention there.
As Aries have a great amount of vital force (and because they can be quite “heady”) they can have a lot of ideas and things they wish to create. However, there can be a tendency for their energy to become scattered when they are not aware of regulating and cultivating their energies, which can lead to burning through the vital force quickly and unevenly, leading to burnout and depletion down the line.
CONSTITUTION
A classic Pitta type, seen from the Ayurvedic perspective. Carries the energetics of hot and dry. Generally we see a medium sized person, muscular, and with a strong digestive fire. They may display signs of redness and heat; redness in the skin, a tendency to run hot, curly and/or oily hair, etc.
In Aries we see both the Cardinal quality and the Fire element. There is plenty of heat and intensity, which often comes out too fast, too hot. When this energy is not balanced or expressed in a healthy way, it can turn into a lot of more negative emotions, such as anger, frustration and confrontation. Over time, it can also turn to depression and trouble expressing oneself, as the body is burnt out and depleted.
Aires have a need to express and create; they need to find a channel for their fire, something to pour their heart and soul into.
ORGAN RULERSHIP
The head, adrenals and the febrile mechanism (hypothalamus- temperature regulation and fever).
HEALTH & HEALING
In Aries we see imbalances related to heat and fire. This includes ‘hot’ headaches, hot digestion (rapid transit time but poor absorption), fever, inflammation and adrenal fatigue. Typical first aid/emergency situations are also related to Aries, and to the planetary ruler: Mars.
The high amount of vital force seen in Aries indicates the importance of cultivating balance and harmony. Aries tend to benefit from daily routines and frequencies; having regular meal times and going to sleep at the same time each night. Proper and regular meals help to balance their blood sugar, energy and hormonal levels, rather than running on adrenaline and cortisol- which over time depleted their adrenal glands, nervous system and mineral balance in the body.
When the body is under stress it burns through its minerals much quicker, so Aries can be prone to mineral imbalances/deficiencies.
A diet that balances pitta will be helpful for Aries; focusing on cooling and moistening foods, such as leafy greens, berries, yoghurt, rice and ghee. Reducing the intake of caffeine, hot/spicy foods, fermented foods and alcohol will also be very helpful.
Herbal remedies for Aries include nervines, nutritives, bitters, and cooling and moistening remedies. Many of these remedies are herbs ruled by the Moon- bringing in the cooling, relaxing qualities.
Energetics
Sympathetic- hot and dry.
Anti-pathetic- cool and moist.