Astrology and Herbalism: Aries Herbs from Culpeper’s Complete Herbal
Astrology and herbalism have been linked for centuries, with early herbalists believing that planets and zodiac signs influenced the medicinal properties of plants. One of the most famous figures in this tradition is Nicholas Culpeper, a 17th-century herbalist and astrologer who mapped out the connections between celestial bodies and the natural world.
So, what does this mean for Aries? If you’re an Aries (or just curious about Aries energy), this guide will walk you through the herbs that Culpeper associated with the fiery, action-driven sign of Aries.
Aries and Its Herbal Connections
Aries is ruled by Mars, the planet of action, drive, and intensity. It governs the head, face, and blood circulation, making Aries-linked herbs particularly useful for ailments related to these areas. Many Aries herbs have warming, stimulating, or protective qualities—reflecting the bold and pioneering spirit of this sign.
Herbs for Aries from Culpeper’s Complete Herbal
1. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
If Aries energy had a scent, it might just be rosemary! According to Culpeper, rosemary is a Sun herb under Aries, making it excellent for vitality, focus, and mental clarity. He recommended rosemary for strengthening the brain and nerves, relieving headaches, and even improving memory. This is a great herb for Aries types who burn through their mental energy quickly and need some cognitive support.
How to Use It: Drink rosemary tea for focus or use rosemary oil for a head massage to clear mental fog.
2. Blessed Thistle (Carduus benedictus)
Culpeper directly associates blessed thistle with Aries and Mars, making it a powerful herb for blood purification and head ailments. He recommended it for vertigo, dizziness, and even wound healing—fitting for the Aries warrior archetype. Aries folks tend to push their limits, and blessed thistle helps the body recover from overexertion, fevers, and inflammation.
How to Use It: Try it in a detox tea blend or use an infusion for skin healing.
3. Cowslip (Primula veris)
Cowslip is governed by Venus but still linked to Aries in Culpeper’s system. This soft and gentle herb balances Aries’ fiery nature by offering calming, beautifying, and nervous system-supporting properties. It was traditionally used for insomnia, anxiety, and head tension—all common experiences for Aries types who go full speed ahead without rest!
How to Use It: Brew a cowslip tea before bed for relaxation and sleep support.
4. Carnation (Clove July-Flower)
Carnation is associated with Venus in Aries, blending the beauty and charm of Venus with Aries’ passionate energy. Culpeper suggested carnation as a remedy for malignant fevers, low spirits, and nervous exhaustion. Since Aries is prone to burnout, this herb helps restore balance.
How to Use It: Drink as a floral tea or use in a bath for relaxation.
5. Sweet Marjoram (Origanum majorana)
Marjoram is ruled by Mercury but falls under Aries in Culpeper’s system. It’s excellent for head colds, sinus congestion, and nervous system support. Since Aries can be prone to headaches and overstimulation, marjoram helps ease tension and supports the respiratory system.
How to Use It: Inhale marjoram steam for sinus relief or use in cooking for digestive support.
6. Wood Betony (Stachys officinalis)
Culpeper lists wood betony under Jupiter in Aries, making it a great herb for nerve strength, digestion, and mental clarity. It was historically used to ward off negative energy and protect the body from “epidemical diseases.” Since Aries moves fast and doesn’t always protect their energy, betony can be a great ally.
How to Use It: Use in teas for brain function and focus, or carry as a protective herb.
7. Mustard (Brassica/Sinapis)
Mustard is ruled by Mars, making it a natural fit for Aries energy. It’s warming, stimulating, and invigorating, helping with circulation and digestion. Culpeper noted that mustard quickens the spirits and strengthens the heart, which makes it perfect for Aries types who need to maintain their stamina.
How to Use It: Try mustard plasters for muscle aches or add mustard seeds to your diet for digestive support.
Aries Herbal Self-Care
If you resonate with Aries energy (whether through your Sun, Moon, or Rising sign), consider integrating these herbs into your self-care routine. Aries thrives when their head is clear, energy is high, and body is strong, so using these herbs can help maintain balance.
Tips:
If you struggle with headaches or mental fatigue, rosemary and marjoram can be your go-to allies.
Feeling worn out or inflamed? Blessed thistle and wood betony can help restore energy.
Need to balance your intensity with relaxation? Cowslip and carnation offer a gentle, cooling effect.
Final Thoughts
Astrology is a tool for understanding how to work with your body, mind, and spirit. By aligning with herbs that complement your astrological energy, you can support your well-being in a way that feels natural and intuitive. Whether you’re an Aries or just interested in astrological herbalism, exploring these plant allies can be a fun and healing journey.
