Introduction
The signatures of plants and their connection with planetary influences belong among the key principles of the ancient alchemical and hermetic tradition. This teaching, known as the "doctrine of signatures", proceeds from the conviction that God or nature has imprinted upon the form of plants, minerals and animals certain marks which point to what the given kind is for. In past centuries this theme occupied alchemists, astrologers and herbalists alike, among whom, among others, the English healer and astrologer Nicholas Culpeper (1616–1654) became famous. He joined the classical Western astrology of his day with the practical knowledge of herbs, and by assigning the rulership of individual planets was able to direct their healing energies toward concrete ends.
The seven classical planets, Saturn, Jupiter, Mars, the Sun, Venus, Mercury and the Moon, have for long ages been viewed as the basic heavenly influences pervading nature. According to the alchemical and hermetic tradition, their energies are "imprinted" upon matter, including the plant kingdom. These signatures are reflected in colour, shape, taste, scent, patterns of growth, or the environment in which the plant flourishes. To understand under which planet a plant stands offers a guide for the better use of its properties for bodily, mental and spiritual needs. This method of choosing herbs for healing or strengthening the organism takes into account not only the general properties of the plant, but also the individual constitution of the person and the momentary astrological circumstances.
The characteristics of the planetary signatures given below may help in choosing the right herb according to its natural traits and intended effect:
Signatures and Their Planetary Rulerships
Saturn
Saturn symbolises limitation, structure, time, age and depth. Its energies are considered cold and dry. Plants under Saturnine rule often have dark colours (black, dark green, brown), grow slowly, and their action is gradual but lasting. They often flourish in inhospitable or stony soils. They tend to have a bitter, astringent or styptic taste, firm the tissues, bring order, and help with chronic complaints. In alchemy, Saturn is joined with lead, the symbol of solidity, weight, and descent into the depths of the unconscious. The choice of Saturnine herbs is suitable wherever a thorough, long-term and patient action is needed.
Jupiter
Jupiter represents expansion, abundance, growth and vitality, and is associated with a warm and moist energy. Jovian plants tend to be luxuriant, with large leaves or flowers, often of sweet taste and pleasant scent. They support digestion and the circulation of the blood, lend strength, reinforce resilience and overall life-energy. In traditional herbalism these plants were connected with fertility, wealth, and the growth of the spirit. In alchemy they correspond to tin, symbolising wisdom, hope and nobility. Jovian herbs are suited to the support of optimism, the abundance of strengths and harmonious development.
Mars
The Martial energy brings strength, swiftness and fiery charge. Under its influence stand herbs which are often sharp, pungent, bitter or markedly aromatic. Their action tends to be the purification of the blood, the stimulation of metabolism and the support of immunity, as well as the removal of stagnant energies from the body. With them we often find ruddy hues or dynamic forms. In alchemy Mars corresponds to iron, which symbolises combativeness, endurance and the capacity to overcome obstacles. Martial herbs can therefore be chosen for the strengthening of the formation of blood, the giving of physical strength, or for invigoration when an active approach and courage are needed.
Sun
The solar energy embodies life, light, warmth and vitality. We recognise solar herbs by their bright, often golden or yellow blossoms and by their harmonious appearance. They support the heart, the circulation of the blood, vitality, and bring joy and strength of spirit. Their taste tends to be lightly piquant, sweet or aromatic, and encourages activity. In alchemy the Sun is joined with gold, the symbol of perfection, integrity and spiritual illumination. Solar herbs are recommended in fatigue, exhaustion, lack of joy, or in the need to restore vitality and inner balance.
Venus
Venus rules over love, harmony, gentleness and sweetness. Venusian herbs often distinguish themselves by a pleasant scent, colourful and aesthetically attractive blossoms, and a delicious, gentle taste. They harmonise the nervous system, calm, act upon the reproductive system, the heart, the kidneys and the bodily fluids. They induce a sense of well-being, suppress stress and support sensory pleasure. In alchemy they correspond to copper, the metal of creativity, empathy and harmonisation. These herbs are suited where there is a need to restore balance, gentleness, and the joy of perceiving the world.
Mercury
Mercury is the symbol of movement, intellect, communication and adaptability. Mercurial herbs tend to be subtle, with a delicate scent and a changeable taste. They support the nervous system, the cognitive functions, the metabolic processes and the overall adaptability of the organism. They may be lightly bitter or mildly spicy, but without marked aggression. In alchemy, Mercury corresponds to quicksilver, the symbol of transformation and movement. These herbs are chosen for the stimulation of the mind, the setting of energy into motion, and the support of swift reaction of body and spirit to the surrounding conditions.
Moon (Luna)
The Lunar energy is associated with the emotions, the unconscious, cyclicality and change, and so lunar herbs often grow in more humid environments, have pale or silvery colouring of leaves or flowers, and sometimes open at night. They tend to be of a delicate taste, cooling or lightly astringent. They support the lymphatic system, harmonise hormones and digestion, and help to calm the mind. In alchemy the Moon is joined with silver, the symbol of sensitivity and purity. Lunar herbs are appropriate in difficulties with sleep, nervousness, emotional imbalance, or in the need for regeneration and adaptation to the natural rhythms of life.