The Shiva and Shakti of Herbs As the moon Transits Mula Nakshatra, and Mula meaning root I decided to write about, two herbs or roots. That stand out for me in Ayurveda for representing Shiva and Shakti. They are Ashwagandha and Shatavari. They are opposite in nature and yet have similar qualities and effects on the body and mind. They work well in unity and compliment each other due to that they balance one another and work in synergy. Sanskrit Name Ashwaghanda Botanical name: Withania Somnifera English name: Winter Cherry Ashwagandha means the Strength or smell of a horse referring to a horse symbolizing vitality and strength, is an Aphrodisiac and energizer, but also a sedative and tranquilizer. It nourishes all seven tissues of the body, especially Muscle, Mamsa and Reproductive, Shukra. It nourishes all the seven tissues, is restorative tonic and treats fatigue, helps to build muscle and is an Aphrodisiac, yet also has the quality of being a Nervine and induces natural sleep. Its qualities are bitter and astringent and heating in nature. It is connected to the Pingala nadi and the Sun and is one of the best herbs to sustain male health, reproductive health and testosterone levels. In Vedic Astrology I associate this herb with Ashwini Nakshatra, the first Nakshatra, being ruled by Ketu and Aries being ruled by Mars. Both Fiery and Masculine in Nature, the connection of the Ashwini Kumars, being horses and the physicians of the gods. The sign of Aries being the eastern direction is also the position sun gets Dig Bala, or direction strength. Sanskrit Name: Shatavari Botanical name: Asparagus racemosus English Name: Asparagus root Shatavari means, 100 brides or woman who if fit to be a bride 100 times or fit to have 100 husbands, it is nutritious to all seven tissues, especially the to the female reproductive system, Arthava. It is anabolic, aphrodisiac, nutritive and rejuvenate in nature and has estrogen precursors and regulates the menstrual cycle and regulates healthy development of breasts. It is also a cardiac tonic and calms the mind. Have the qualities of calm, sweet and cooling, it is connected to the Ida nadi and the moon and is one of the best herbs for sustaining and maintaining female health and estrogen levels. In Vedic Astrology I associate this herb with Rohini Nakshatra and the sign of Taurus, being ruled by Venus and being a moon Nakshatra. Both cool and feminine in nature. Rohini being the favorite of Moons 27 wives shows the lunar nature of this nakshatra and corresponds to a woman’s menstrual cycle and moons journey through the nakshatras #ayurveda #jyotishastrology #herbalmedicine #herbsandspices #vedicastrology #naturalhealth #immunesystem #denmark