Leo ~ Av (July 23 - August 22)
Sign: Lion - Leo Wills Mode: Fixed Fire, Masculine Planet: Sun Tissue State: Excitation Energetics: Heat
Season and Earth Expression
Peak of Summer brings Fire, Ego, Fullness of Being, and Creative Expression. This is the time of maximum light and warmth, when the Sun (Leo's ruler) shines at its brightest.
Body Correspondences
Leo rules the Heart and Blood via the circulatory system, along with Vitality itself, and the Spine and Back.
Specifically: Chest, spine, and upper back. Dorsal region of the back and spine including nerves, specifically the second dorsal vertebra. Marrow of the spine. Heart, vena cava, and aorta. Myelin sheaths. Cardiac system. Circulation and distribution of nutrients and vital energy through the blood. Radius, ulna, wrists, and forearm. The constructive forces of the body.
Cell Salt: Mag Phos
Herbal Actions
- Diaphoretic - Herbs that help release excess heat through sweating
- Circulatory Stimulant - Herbs that support heart function and blood circulation
Herbs for Leo
Hawthorn (Crataegus spp.) - The supreme heart herb. Strengthens and protects the heart both physically and emotionally. Like Leo, it has thorns for protection but produces sweet berries and beautiful blossoms.
Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca) - Note the Latin name "Leonurus" meaning "lion's tail." This is truly Leo's herb. Calms heart palpitations, eases anxiety, and brings courage (from the Latin "cor" meaning heart).
Borage (Borago officinalis) - "Borage for courage" - this cheerful blue-flowered herb lifts the spirits and supports the adrenals. It gladdens the heart.
St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum) - Harvested at midsummer, this solar herb brings light to dark places. It supports the nervous system and lifts depression.
Linden (Tilia spp.) - Heart-shaped leaves mark this as a heart remedy. Calming to the cardiovascular system and nervous system alike.
Calendula (Calendula officinalis) - Another solar herb with golden flowers that follow the sun. Supports the lymphatic system and brings warmth and healing.
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) - Stimulates circulation, especially to the head and heart. Warming and invigorating.
The Energy of Leo
Leo's fixed fire provides stable, radiant warmth - like the Sun itself. This is the energy of self-expression, creativity, and generous giving from the heart.
When balanced, Leo energy is warm, generous, and inspiring. When imbalanced, it can manifest as inflammation, heart issues, or ego inflation.
The herbs of Leo support the heart in all its dimensions - physical, emotional, and spiritual - helping us shine our light while staying grounded in love.