Medical astrology, or iatromathematics, is an ancient practice. It links the movements of celestial bodies with health and wellness. It suggests that each zodiac sign rules different body parts. It influences one’s physical and mental health. Astrology can reveal potential health issues and guide holistic healing.
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History
Medical astrology has a history of thousands of years. Evidence shows it was practiced in various ancient civilizations.
- Egyptians: The ancient Egyptians believed that the stars and planets affected health. Their priests and physicians used astrology to find the best times for surgeries and treatments. Astrology was linked to their deities. Each planet was associated with a god and its medical function.
- Greeks: Greek physicians, like Hippocrates, the “Father of Medicine,” believed doctors must understand astrology. Hippocrates said, “A physician who knows no astrology is not a physician.” Greek medical astrology was tied to the four humors: blood, phlegm, black bile, and yellow bile. These were linked to the elements (fire, water, earth, and air). They believed the celestial bodies’ positions affected one’s health.
- Indians (Vedic Astrology): Vedic astrology (Jyotish) has a long tradition in India. It integrates astrology with Ayurveda, the ancient system of medicine. Vedic texts like the “Rigveda” and “Atharvaveda” say celestial bodies affect human health. Ayurvedic practitioners have used astrology for centuries to assess people’s constitution (Prakriti) and health conditions (Vikriti).
Medical astrology was common in Europe in the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. Physicians used “decumbiture charts,” or astrological charts. They used them to find the start of illnesses, the best treatment times, and possible recovery outcomes. Astrology’s influence on medicine waned in the 17th and 18th centuries with the rise of modern science. But, it has persisted as a complementary approach.
Relevance Today
Despite advances in modern medicine, medical astrology is still practiced. It has a place in alternative and holistic healing. Several reasons account for its continued relevance:
- Holistic Approach: Medical astrology views health as a whole. It considers physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of well-being. It aims to treat illness by understanding the person’s makeup and habits.
- Preventive Care: Practitioners can spot health risks by analyzing astrological charts. This can be done before any symptoms appear. This approach lets people take preventive measures. They can adjust their lifestyles, diet changes, or use natural remedies. This helps them stay balanced and avoid illness.
- Personalized Treatment: In medical astrology, no two individuals are treated the same, even if they exhibit similar symptoms. Astrological charts are a unique blueprint for each person’s health. They guide treatments that align with the individual’s cosmic makeup.
- Emotional and Psychological Insight: Astrology can provide insights into the emotional and psychological factors contributing to health issues, which modern medicine sometimes overlooks. By understanding these deeper influences, individuals may heal better from chronic conditions.
- Rising Interest in Alternative Therapies: Many seek natural treatments. Medical astrology offers an ancient but new approach to health care. It attracts those seeking answers beyond conventional medicine. This is true for conditions that have not responded to traditional treatments.
- Integration with Modern Practices: Some practitioners integrate medical astrology with modern holistic approaches such as Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), homeopathy, and herbalism. This fusion links ancient wisdom with modern knowledge. It creates a better healing practice.
The Zodiac Signs and Their Influence on the Body
Aries
Aries rules the head, encompassing the brain, skull, and face. As the first zodiac sign, it signifies dynamic energy and restlessness. It also represents mental and physical activity. The sign’s hot and dry nature predisposes it to inflammatory conditions.
Body Parts Governed: Brain, skull, face, and some parts of the cranium and nose. (Scorpio also influences the nasal bones.)
Bones: Skull and facial bones.
Muscles: Includes the frontalis, temporalis, zygomaticus, and other facial muscles.
Arteries and Veins: Temporal arteries, internal carotids, and cephalic veins.
Health Concerns: Epilepsy, headaches, skin conditions on the face, alopecia, phrenitis, vertigo, neuralgia, and cerebral congestion.
Taurus
Taurus governs the neck and throat, representing stability, connection, and endurance. It influences the ears, vocal cords, thyroid gland, and upper esophagus. The nature of this sign is often moist, with tendencies toward congestion.
Body Parts Governed: Neck, throat, ears, upper esophagus, and thyroid.
Bones: Cervical vertebrae.
Muscles: Sternohyoid, mastoid, trapezius, and other neck muscles.
Arteries and Veins: External carotids, basilar artery, occipitals, and veins in the thyroid gland.
Health Concerns: Sore throat, goiter, tonsillitis, croup, glandular issues, and laryngitis.
Gemini
Gemini affects flexibility and the nervous system. It rules the shoulders, arms, hands, and lungs. The sign’s light, changing nature affects the body’s sensations and communications.
Body Parts Governed: Shoulders, arms, hands, lungs, trachea, and bronchi.
Bones: Clavicle, scapula, humerus, radius, ulna, and the ribs.
Muscles: Deltoid, biceps, triceps, and muscles involved in arm movement.
Arteries and Veins: Subclavians, brachial, radial, ulnar arteries, and pulmonary veins.
Health Concerns: Bronchitis, asthma, nervous disorders, pneumonia, and arm fractures.
Cancer
Cancer governs the nurturing and digestive processes, including the stomach and chest. It affects the body’s fluids and the lymphatic system. It focuses on nourishment and transformation.
Body Parts Governed: Chest, stomach, breasts, thoracic cavity, pancreas, and, to some extent, the uterus.
Bones: Sternum and portions of the ribs.
Muscles: Diaphragm and intercostal muscles.
Arteries and Veins: Gastric and diaphragmatic arteries, mammary veins.
Health Concerns: Digestive disorders, gastric catarrh, coughs, cancers, chlorosis, and conditions associated with fluid retention.
Leo
Leo rules the heart and spine. It symbolizes life and vitality. It is linked to generating and distributing energy in the body.
Body Parts Governed: Heart, spine, and upper back.
Bones: Dorsal vertebrae.
Muscles: Latissimus dorsi, interspinalis, and spinal muscles.
Arteries and Veins: Aorta, coronary arteries, and vena cava.
Health Concerns: Heart disease, palpitations, fevers, spinal meningitis, and aneurysms.
Virgo
Virgo is associated with digestion and the assimilation of nutrients. It affects the intestines, abdominal region, and the body’s filtration processes.
Body Parts Governed: Bowels, intestines (duodenum, jejunum, ileum), spleen, and sympathetic nervous system.
Muscles: Abdominal muscles, including obliques and rectus.
Arteries and Veins: Gastric and mesenteric arteries, portal vein.
Health Concerns: Colic, dysentery, diarrhea, enteric fever, peritonitis, and digestive issues.
Libra
Libra rules the kidneys and lower back. It symbolizes balance and the body’s filters. The sign is linked to the distillation and filtration of bodily fluids.
Body Parts Governed: Kidneys, lumbar region.
Bones: Lumbar vertebrae.
Muscles: Quadratus lumborum and sacrolumbalis.
Arteries and Veins: Renal arteries and veins.
Health Concerns: Nephritis, kidney stones, lumbar pain, and urine retention.
Scorpio
Scorpio is linked to the reproductive organs, waste removal, and energy in the body. It has dominion over the pelvis, bladder, and certain excretory functions.
Body Parts Governed: Reproductive organs, bladder, rectum, colon.
Bones: Pelvic bones.
Muscles: Cremaster, sphincters.
Arteries and Veins: Internal iliac arteries and associated veins.
Health Concerns: Reproductive disorders, bladder issues, hemorrhoids, fistulas, syphilis.
Sagittarius
Sagittarius rules the hips, thighs, and aspects of locomotion. It is linked to movement and the expansion of physical capabilities.
Body Parts Governed: Hips, thighs, sciatic nerve.
Bones: Femur and pelvic girdle.
Muscles: Quadriceps, gluteal muscles.
Arteries and Veins: Femoral artery and veins.
Health Concerns: Sciatica, hip dislocation, leg injuries, and rheumatism.
Capricorn
Capricorn governs the bones, joints, and skin. It symbolizes structure and limitation, influencing the skeletal system’s health.
Body Parts Governed: Knees, skin, joints.
Bones: Patella.
Muscles: Popliteal and surrounding muscles.
Arteries and Veins: Popliteal arteries and veins.
Health Concerns: Arthritis, skin conditions, joint pain, and bone fractures.
Aquarius
Aquarius is linked to the circulatory system and toxin removal, especially in the lower legs and ankles.
Body Parts Governed: Lower legs, calves, and ankles.
Bones: Tibia and fibula.
Muscles: Gastrocnemius and soleus.
Arteries and Veins: Tibial arteries and veins.
Health Concerns: Varicose veins, leg cramps, circulation issues, and nervous disorders.
Pisces
Pisces rules the feet and influences the lymphatic system. It is associated with the body’s fluid balance and relaxation processes.
Body Parts Governed: Feet, lymphatic system.
Muscles: Muscles in the feet.
Arteries and Veins: Plantar arteries and veins.
Health Concerns: Foot ailments, lymphatic congestion, edema, and cold-related conditions.
The Planets and Their Medical Associations
The Sun: Vitality and Heart
The Sun, the “Leader and Governor” of the zodiac, is vital. It symbolizes the force that governs life. It rules Leo and directly influences the heart, spine, and circulatory system. In astrology, the Sun’s position in a birth chart shows a person’s vitality and recovery powers. It also represents the life force, or Prana, and the strength of one’s constitution. A strong, well-placed Sun means good health. An afflicted Sun can cause heart disease, fevers, and inflammation.
Body Parts Governed: Heart, spine, eyes.
Diseases: Fevers, heart problems, spinal disorders, and eye issues. These include angina, palpitations, glaucoma, and cataracts.
The Moon: Emotional Well-being and Fluids
The Moon governs Cancer and controls bodily fluids, emotional health, and the stomach. It regulates the lymphatic system, breasts, and female reproductive organs. So, it is essential to women’s health. The Moon moves quickly through the zodiac. It affects digestion, secretion, and fluid balance. It greatly affects emotional and mental well-being. It can cause anxiety, mood swings, or fluid retention.
Body Parts Governed: Stomach, uterus, breasts, lymphatic system.
Diseases: Edema, digestive issues, menstrual disorders, and fluid imbalances. Also, emotional instability.
Mercury: Nervous System and Communication
Mercury rules Gemini and Virgo. It governs the nervous system, respiration, and communication in the body. It affects the brain, lungs, hands, and nerves. So, it is key to mental health and neuro disorders. Mercury’s influence affects how we process information. It impacts speech, skill, and breathing.
Body Parts Governed: Brain, nervous system, respiratory system, hands.
Diseases: Nervous disorders, anxiety, speech impediments, respiratory conditions like bronchitis or asthma.
Venus: Balance, Kidneys, and Throat
Venus governs Taurus and Libra, focusing on harmony, balance, and nurturing. Venus rules the kidneys, throat, and venous system in the body. Its calming, nurturing energy keeps these systems running smoothly. Afflictions can cause kidney disorders, throat problems, or skin conditions. Venus affects the reproductive system, especially in women. It is vital for fertility and hormonal balance.
Body Parts Governed: Kidneys, throat, reproductive organs (in women).
Diseases: Kidney stones, throat infections, venous issues, skin ailments, and diseases from excess indulgence.
Mars: Energy, Muscles, and Inflammation
Mars, the planet of aggression and action, rules Aries and Scorpio. It governs the muscles, blood, and immune response. Its fiery, energetic nature is associated with inflammation, fevers, and acute conditions. Mars affects the sexual organs and bile. It is key to reproductive health and digestion. When Mars is afflicted, individuals may suffer from injuries, infections, or inflammatory diseases.
Body Parts Governed: Muscles, blood, sexual organs, bile.
Diseases: Inflammatory conditions, fever, injuries, burns, genital infections.
Jupiter: Growth, Liver, and Expansion
Jupiter, the planet of expansion, governs Sagittarius and Pisces. It rules the liver, pancreas, and growth processes. It affects the arteries and the body’s ability to save energy. A well-aspected Jupiter brings good health, vitality, and optimism. An afflicted Jupiter can cause excesses like obesity, liver problems, and blood disorders.
Body Parts Governed: Liver, pancreas, arterial system.
Diseases: Liver disease, diabetes, arterial problems, obesity, overgrowths like tumors or cysts.
Saturn: Limitation, Bones, and Chronic Conditions
Saturn, known for being restrictive, rules Capricorn and Aquarius. It governs the bones, skin, and joints. It is associated with aging, chronic conditions, and degeneration. Saturn’s influence causes structural and skeletal issues. These include arthritis, bone fractures, and slow-recovery conditions. It also governs crystallization in the body, which can manifest as kidney stones or gout.
Body Parts Governed: Bones, joints, skin, spleen.
Diseases: Arthritis, osteoporosis, skin conditions, chronic diseases, depression.
Uranus: Sudden Changes and Nervous System
Uranus, the planet of sudden change, governs Aquarius. It also affects the nervous system. It is linked to spasms, sudden illnesses, and neurological disorders. Uranus governs strange conditions that upset the body’s balance. They often cause sudden shocks to the system.
Body Parts Governed: Nervous system, ankles.
Diseases: Spasms, cramps, nervous shocks, anxiety disorders.
Neptune: Sensitivity and Psychic Influence
Neptune rules Pisces. It affects the body’s sensitivity, especially psychic health and fluid balance. Neptune rules conditions that blur the line between physical and mental illnesses. These include addiction, hallucinations, and immune disorders. It also has a strong connection to the feet and lymphatic system.
Body Parts Governed: Feet, lymphatic system.
Diseases: Addictions, immune disorders, hallucinations, fluid retention.
Pluto: Transformation and Reproductive Organs
Pluto, ruling Scorpio, governs the body’s reproductive system and processes of death and rebirth. It is associated with deep transformation, regeneration, and elimination. Pluto’s influence can cause profound changes, for better or worse. It is often linked to sexual health, hormonal balance, and detoxification.
Body Parts Governed: Reproductive organs, eliminative system.
Diseases: Reproductive disorders, infections, detoxification issues, degenerative conditions.
The Role of Elements in Health and Well-being
In medical astrology, the four elements—Fire, Earth, Air, and Water—are linked to body functions and temperaments. Each element corresponds to a set of zodiac signs. It uniquely affects health. It shapes how diseases manifest and how people react to them.
Fire Signs (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius)
Fire signs are associated with energy, heat, and inflammation. People with a strong fire influence in their charts tend to have robust vitality. Still, they may also be prone to fevers, inflammatory conditions, and burns. They are often active and impulsive, leading to accidents or injuries due to their high energy levels.
Health Concerns: Fevers, inflammatory diseases, hypertension, and injuries related to physical activity. They may also suffer from stress-related issues due to their intense nature.
Earth Signs (Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn)
Earth signs represent stability and structure. They govern the bones, skin, and digestive system. These signs often focus on health, like diet and fitness. They are generally strong. But, they may have stiffness, digestive issues, or joint problems if they are not balanced.
Health Concerns: Arthritis, digestive problems, skin conditions, and weight-related issues. They may also be prone to conditions that develop slowly and become chronic over time.
Air Signs (Gemini, Libra, Aquarius)
Air signs are connected with the nervous system and respiratory functions. They tend to be prone to nervous disorders, anxiety, and breathing difficulties. People with strong air sign influences are quick thinkers. But, they may have stress-related issues, like hyperventilation or insomnia.
Health Concerns: Respiratory issues, like asthma. Nervous tension, anxiety, and circulation problems, too. They may also experience stress-related conditions due to their mental activity.
Water Signs (Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces)
Water signs are associated with bodily fluids, emotional health, and reproductive systems. These signs often have sensitive constitutions. They can be prone to fluid retention, hormonal imbalances, and psychosomatic illnesses. Their emotions can harm their health. This can cause illnesses from stress or grief.
Health Concerns: Edema, hormonal disorders, and digestive issues. Also, conditions are affected by emotional health, like anxiety and depression.
Astrological Remedies for Health Issues
Astrological remedies balance the negative effects of planets in a person’s birth chart. These remedies may involve lifestyle changes, diet, or gemstones. They aim to harmonize the individual’s energy and improve health.
Lifestyle and Dietary Adjustments
Based on the zodiac signs and planets, some changes can help. A better diet and lifestyle can restore balance.
Fire signs benefit from cooling foods and calming activities.
Earth signs need a diet that supports digestion and activities that encourage flexibility.
Air signs should eat grounding foods. They should also do calming practices, like meditation.
Water signs should eat a balanced diet. It should support fluid regulation. They should avoid too much sugar or salt.
Gemstone Therapy
Different gemstones are linked to specific planets. Wearing them can boost their benefits or reduce their harm.
Ruby for the Sun to boost vitality.
Pearl for the Moon to calm emotions.
Emerald for Mercury to improve communication and nervous health.
Diamond for Venus to promote harmony and balance.
Herbal Remedies
Certain herbs are linked to planetary energies and can be used to treat health issues:
Sun: Rosemary for vitality and circulation.
Moon: Chamomile for calming and digestive support.
Mars: Nettle for blood purification.
Jupiter: Dandelion for liver health.
Color Therapy
Using colors associated with planets can help balance the body’s energy. For example:
Red for Mars to energize and strengthen.
Blue for the Moon to soothe and calm.
Yellow for Mercury to stimulate mental clarity.
Transits and Their Effects on Health
Astrological transits are the movement of planets across the sky. They relate to the positions of planets in a person’s natal chart. These transits can greatly affect health. They may trigger conditions or promote healing.
Personal Transits
Transiting planets can affect specific health areas. This happens when they transit houses or form aspects of natal planets.
Mars transits can increase the risk of accidents or inflammation.
Saturn transits may bring chronic conditions or joint issues.
Jupiter transits can improve overall health but may also lead to weight gain if excessive.
Saturn Returns and Health
Saturn returns happen about every 29 years. They can change your health. The first Saturn return, around age 29, often brings maturity. Around age 58, the second can raise aging issues or a need for a healthier lifestyle.
Conclusion
Using medical astrology in your wellness journey can provide a unique view of health. You can choose a balanced lifestyle by linking zodiac signs to body parts. Medical astrology can help your health. Use it, but be responsible. It’s a useful tool, but it’s not a cure.