Tuesday, January 19, 2010

Happy Birthday Aquarius!



The ingress (entry) of the Sun into Aquarius marks a time in which themes like freedom, independence and humanitarian issues are in the air. This is also the time of carnevals all around the world. When you think of Aquarius, these words spring to mind: stubborn, societal, forward-thinking, opinionated, unconventional, musical, and rebellious.

As the eleventh sign of the zodiac, Aquarius represents the eleventh stage in the evolution of man and his place in the universe. In Aquarius, the individuality of man so carefully nurtured in Leo, now becomes part of the greater spectrum of society as a whole. Capricorn sets up the structure and rules of society, and Aquarius takes on the role of making the organizations of society function as the people-oriented institutions they were intended to be. Aquarians are the original "organization men" of the zodiac. Their societal orientation, loyalty, fairness, and objective nature are reasons why they tend to attract many friends and acquaintances in life. Though they are not above wanting to live well, many Aquarians are more interested in people than they are in amassing great wealth or taking on the responsibilities that invariably accompany such a life style. When they cannot afford some luxury, they rationalize why they didn't need it in the first place.

Aquarians are stubborn and resist changing their opinions or accepting new ideas that they do not like or with which they do not agree. Big changes in life are accepted as a challenge, but small changes that throw off their plans are not tolerated very well. The astrological symbol for Aquarius is the figure of a man pouring water. The water is seen as mankind's collective consciousness. It depicts Aquarians as disseminators of the spirit of humanity. Many Aquarians, in tune with their celestial heritage, are idealists who champion the highest principles to which humanity can aspire. However they are also extremely independent thinkers. When confronted with authoritarian demands or dogmatic principles to which they do not subscribe, they rebel. They may hesitate to take the initiative at times, but once they decide a situation or idea is worthwhile, they become involved and aggressive in pushing it forward. They don't mind being asked to do something but they resent being told to do it. Those who want to gain their favor will help share the work load without being asked.

Aquarians react to everything they experience in life with an intellectual orientation. Before they take physical action, before they assess the practical worth of something, and before they sort out their true emotions, they try to visualize it objectively as a kind of mental exercise. In relationships, their intellectual approach makes them appear interested but not particularly passionate or possessive. It does not necessarily mean they really lack passion. When they do focus their feelings, their passion can be as intense as it is inspirational.

The modern ruler of Aquarius is Uranus, planet of the unorthodox and eclectic mentality of mankind. The ancient ruler of Aquarius is Saturn, planet of restriction and structure. Such different characteristics seem to directly contradict one another, but a close look at the Aquarian personality shows that both planets co-exist in a strangely compatible way. Aquarians demonstrate association with Uranus by being unpredictable. Saturn?s influence gives them stability. The two influences generally mean that when Aquarians suddenly change course, or do something unpredictable, they are not likely to be acting on a whim or a bet but for some very practical or advantageous reason. They favor the unique as well as the traditional. Sometimes they are either so involved with the past (history and antiques) or so tuned in to the future (spaceships and neon clothes) they lose track of the present. Exhibiting the stability of Saturn, they may live unvaried, even boring lives; feeling very comfortable and secure in such an unchanging, stable environment. Sooner or later however, they are apt to encounter circumstances that make it hard for them to know what they will be doing next. They often adopt life styles and ideas that are counter to current trends. The odd and unique fascinate them, and they are rarely caught off guard by abnormal situations and strange people.

Aquarians are good eaters but may not care what's on the menu. Most of them are indifferent cooks. As long as they can participate with a partner, or as part of a team they are enthusiastic about sports and, as a result, may not have trouble keeping physically fit. When left on their own however, they become lazy and reluctant to engage in what to them is a lonely series of exercises with which they quickly become bored. Broad jumping, camping, ballooning, tennis, swimming, racquetball, and baseball are some of their favorite activities. Science and engineering, international finance, writing, music, psychology or social work are areas of special interest to Aquarians.

Aquarian colors are silver, aqua, and purple and the more electric shades of pink and blue. Vulnerable parts of the body are the shins, ankles, and circulatory system. Cramps, allergies, sudden illness and freak accidents are common Aquarian complaints, though they may also suffer from various nervous disorders. The birthstone for Aquarius is amethyst. This gem is believed to confer stability and mental poise on those who wear it. Flowers for Aquarians are the more unusual blossoms and include the gladioli, tiger lily, trillium, bird of paradise, and jack-in-the-pulpit.

Idealistic, trend-setting Aquarius is supported by Eucalyptus essential oil, 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.

Sunday, January 17, 2010

Some info about Frankincense essential oil

Since we just passed thru the Epithany, the celebration of the three astrologers (Magi) who brought gifts to the Christ-child, I thought I would have a couple of posts about two of their gifts.

Frankincense




Used for many thousands of years, the Frankincense tree has perhaps the greatest association with spiritual practice of any plant on earth. In most of the great ancient cultures,including the Egyptian, Babylonian, Persian, Hebrew, Greek and Roman civilizations, it has played a role in religious and domestic life. Frankincense has been sought after by kings and valued as highly as gold. More recently, the essential oil is gaining popularity with spiritual seekers and natural healers alike.

The Frankincense tree, or Olibanum, upon first glance, may seem rather unremarkable. It appears as a giant shrub, with many knurled branches topped with abundant slender leaves and occasionally, small white flowers. A native to northern Africa, it looks like it belongs in the desert, growing in some of the world's harshest conditions. But it is not the tree itself, but rather its sap that has such profound lore surrounding it. When the tree's bark is pierced with a knife (known traditionally as a 'Mingaf'), a milky-white oleoresin is exuded- thought the tree is not harmed. The resin forms droplets known as 'tears' or 'pearls', which harden into the orange-brown gum known itself as Frankincense. The English name of this natural incense is derived from the medieval French 'franc',meaning 'pure' or 'free', and from the Latin 'incensium', meaning 'to smoke'.

For more than 5000 years, the hardened resin has been burned in temples throughout Egypt, China and India; the Catholic church continues to use it today during Mass. It is one of the four main ingredients in Jewish ceremonial incense, forming an important part of the Sabbath day offerings. The smoke of Frankincense(as with other ritual incense) is thought to carry prayers to heaven upon it's smoke. It is also said to deepen the breath and still the mind, making it useful for meditation and yogic practice. The incense may have health benefits as well, producing a highly antiseptic smoke, keeping churches and churchgoers free from disease.

Modern natural medicine and aromatherapy have taken to the use of the essential oil of Frankincense. The oil, having a warm, woody, sweet aroma with a hint of citrus, is steam or CO2 distilled from the resin. It is used for respiratory conditions such as bronchitis, catarrh and asthma; for wrinkles, wounds and dry skin, and in cases of rheumatism, cystitis and leukorrea. I diffuse this oil combined with eucalyptus essential oil (20% Frankincense to 80% Eucalyptus)to aid with respiratory issues, especially asthma.

The most important effect of the essential oil may be on the nervous system. Regarded as an antidepressant,the aroma can both relax and revitalize, and can help in cases of nervous tension and exhaustion. Frankincense oil contains sesquiterpenes, which stimulate the limbic system, the hypothalamus, the pineal and the pituitary glands. The oil is now being researched for it's ability to increase human growth hormone production. Further,it is considered to strengthen the immune system, which may in-fact occur as a result of it's uplifting properties.

Per Ayruvedic medicine, Frankincense is known as:
Familiar name:Boswellia, Indian Olibanum, Salai Guggal
Latin name:Boswellia Serrata
Sanskrit name:Shallaki, Kunduru

Referenced in the earliest Ayruvedic texts, boswellia was traditionally used to treat respiratory ailments, disorders of the digestive system, and joint diseases. Pharmacological studies performed in early 1970's identified unique pain relieving, sedating, and anti-inflammatory properties in extracts of boswellia, including the treatment of asthma, arthritis, and inflammatory bowel diseases.

Boswellia can normalize menstrual irregularities and treat liver ailments. It has been used traditionally to treat both syphilis and gonorrhea. As a mouthwash, it can treat bad breath due to gum disease. If there is a common theme to the traditional role of boswellia, it is its purported efficacy in conditions of excessive inflammation.

According to Ayurveda, boswellia carries the astringent, bitter, and sweet tastes. It has a cooling effect on the physiology. It is most pacifying to Pitta and can also reduce Kapha. It is mildly aggravating to Vata in high doses.

Friday, January 15, 2010

New Moon in Capricorn



With the new moon in Capricorn, this is an EXCELLENT time to start new habits...Capricorn is noted for discipline and focus on achieving your goals. The holiday season is over, time to start those New Year resolutions of diet and exercise...for real! :D

Now, when I think of this responsible Moon in Capricorn, the herb & essential oil that jumps to my mind is Sage - Salvia Officinalis, an evergreen perennial.



The transcendental qualities of Sage smoke-smudging have been revered in Native American ritual. Sage takes its name from the Latin root 'salvare' meaning 'to heal' or 'to save'. Among the Ancients and throughout the Middle Ages it was in high repute: Cur moriatur homo cui Salvia crescit in horto? (‘Why should a man die whilst sage grows in his garden?’) has a corresponding English proverb:

‘He that would live for aye,
Must eat Sage in May.’

It was considered a sacred herb by the Romans who used it both medicinally and in cooking. It was used in the Middle Ages by village 'wise women' (burnt at the stake for their practice of 'witchcraft') to help with child birth, menstruation and menopausal difficulties. It has also been used in many countries in folk medicine. Sage has a reputation to retard old age and restore energy. It helps in quickening the senses and memory, strengthening the sinews and restoring health to those suffering from palsies and trembling of limbs. It is considered very useful in failing memory. The herb acts on the cortex of the brain thereby eliminating memory exhaustion and improving concentration.

Sage is also known for its healing action on the throat and mouth. Gargles and mouthwashes use it as the principal ingredient. Leaves rubbed on the teeth regularly help to keep them sparkling white and strengthen the gums. To treat sore throat, half a liter of boiling water should be poured on a handful of sage leaves. When moderately cool a little vinegar and honey should be added. This mixture should be used as a gargle. While gargling, a teaspoon of this mixture can also be taken internally.

Finally, leafy sprigs of sage were among the strewing herbs spread on the floors of old manors, for it was believed to be an antiseptic to guard against plague and other infections.

Think tonight I'll fix some chicken seasoned with sage for dinner. :D

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

Happy Pongal!

"May the pot of prosperity boil over
May the Pongal that we cook,
the fragrance of turmeric
the taste of sugarcane, ginger and honey
Bring the joy of Pongal into our homes
May the blessings of the Sun God flood our lives."


Pongal is the harvest festival of Tamil Nadu. On this day, people thank God for a bountiful harvest. They prepare a special dish called 'Sarkkarai Pongal' and pray for the blessings of Sun God. One of the most popular Tamil festivals, it is celebrated on January 14th every year, when it coincides with Makar Sankranti celebrations in entire North India, Lohri in Punjab, Bhogali Bihu in Assam and Bhogi in Andhra Pradesh. It is one of the very few Dravidian festivals that have survived the Indo-Aryan influences. Pongal also finds little reference in Puranas.

Falling just after the winter solstice and a bountiful harvest, Pongal marks the season of celebration and joyous activities and it is celebrated continuously for four days. On the first day, Bhogi Pongal, celebrations are confined to the house. Evil spirits are driven out of the home and burnt in bonfires, and the house is whitewashed. The second day, Surya Pongal, honors the Sun god. Members of the family wear new clothes and cook - on a new stove and in new pots - a dish with the newly harvested rice, jaggery and moong dal.

The third day is Maattu Pongal, honoring cattle. Cows and bullocks are washed, decorated and worshipped, for their role in ensuring a good harvest. Pongal also marks the beginning of a New Year and is the day to praise and thank God with full devotion, faith and sincerity of heart. The festival covers all living beings including humans, cattle and birds and crops. Even the insects are not overlooked and offered rice and flour, in the form of 'Kollam', on the entrance way of the houses. Thus, Pongal is a day for peace and happiness for all.

Pongal 2010: 14th January...the same day as my hubby's birthday!