For some astrologers, Neptune is the ruling planet of Pisces. In Roman mythology Neptune was the god of the sea, and the deep, ocean blue color of the planet Neptune reflects this. Its glyph is taken directly from Neptune's trident. Neptune takes 165 years to orbit the sun, spending approximately 14 years (13.75) in each sign of the zodiac. Neptune was discovered in 1846.
Astrologically modern Western astrologers associate the planet Neptune with idealism and compassion, but also with illusion, confusion and deception; with religions, spirituality and mysticism, the mass media, creativity in art and music, drugs, extreme sensitivity, fantasy and imagination, psychic phenomena and altered mental states. Neptune governs hospitals, prisons, mental institutions, and any place, such as a monastery, that involves a retreat from society. Its appearance coincided with the discovery of anesthetics and hypnotism . In political terms Neptune was linked to the rise of nationalist movements throughout Europe in countries like Germany, Italy, Hungary, Ireland and Serbia, seeking independence for their nations inspired by an idealised past of legend. It was also linked to the rise of socialism and the beginnings of the welfare state. Neptune also coincided with the utopian ideals of Communism, when Marx and Engels first published 'The Communist Manifesto' in 1848.
In art, the impressionist movement began a trend away from literal representation, to one based on the subtle, changing moods of light and color. In medicine Neptune seems particularly associated with the thalamus, the spinal canal, and severe or mysterious illnesses and neuroses. Neptune is considered by modern astrologers to be co-ruler of the 12th house with Jupiter.
Nowadays modern astrologers considers Neptune the ruler of Pisces, but prior to the discovery of Neptune, Jupiter was the one considered as the ruler of Pisces, even though some modern astrologers consider Jupiter a co-ruler of Pisces. Some astrologers do not believe that Neptune rules any particular sign, even though they may use the planet in interpretation.
Neptune Correspondences
Neptune is generally associated with water and the sea. It is associated with the Roman God Neptune and his Greek counterpart Poseidon. As a relatively recently discovered planet, it does not have much in the way of ancient associations.
Neptune in Magick
Neptune energy is useful for any magick related to the nonphysical including connection to the divine and divination, especially concerning cataclysmic issues. It is also useful for any ritual relating to the sea or any large body of water.
Herbs Associated with Neptune
Neptune plants tend to be gently aromatic with a watery fragrance and/or intoxicating. Plants that grow in or near the sea and plants that seem to grow randomly in all directions may also be associated with Neptune.
Bulrush, Lobelia, Morning glory, Night-blooming jasmine, Phragmytes, Perilla, Pine, Reed, Reed canary grass, Water Lily
