AROMA THERAPY AND THE PLANETS Plant fragrances share the same basic properties as the herbs from which they derive. Yet they have a subtler energy that is better for transmitting planetary influences. Aromas, one could say, stand inter-mediate between gems and herbs in strength of influencing and alter-ing planetary energies. They can either be used as aromatic oils or as incense. Best for increasing the energy of the Sun are hot, spicy aromas like ginger, cinnamon, heena, camphor, and sage. For increasing the energy of the Moon, use cool and calming aro-mas like jasmine, lotus, gardenia, and sandalwood. For increasing the energy of Mars, best are stimulating fragrances like musk, floral musk or camphor. For balancing the energy of Mercury, use calming and mind-clear-ing aromas like sandalwood, basil, mint, and wintergreen. For increasing the energy ofJupiter, best are strengthening aromas like sandalwood, frankincense, and lotus. For increasing the energy' of Venus, sweet fragrances are important like rose, saffron, jasmine, lotus, nag champa, and plumeria (frangipani). o For Saturn, healing fragrances are indicated like myrrh, frankin-cense and cedar. o Many aromatic oils and incenses are good for Rahu because they clear the troubled psychic air caused by this shadowy planet. Calm-ing and clearing fragrances like sandalwood, frankincense and myrrh are particularly good for it. o Perceptive Ketu energy is increased by light, penetrating fragrances like camphor, bayberry, thyme and sage.