In medical astrology, every planet is associated with certain physical or mental conditions. Ayurveda also suggests that illnesses often begin in the mind before manifesting in the body, showing up as discomfort or disease. Among the celestial bodies, the Moon holds special importance. When afflicted, it can create various health problems. Let’s explore what the Moon represents in astrology, its strengths and weaknesses, and the diseases caused by a malefic Moon.

What the Moon Represents in Medical Astrology

The Moon governs the mind. Astrologers connect it with concentration, meditation, and resilience against cold-related illnesses. Known in Vedic texts as Soma; named after the sacred drink used in rituals, the Moon also rules over bodily fluids, vision, and emotions. Because it moves faster than other planets, it heavily influences people’s mood swings.

In women, the Moon works with Mars to regulate the menstrual cycle.

Strength of the Moon

Astrologically, the Moon is considered strongest from Shukla Ekadashi (11th lunar day of the bright half) to Krishna Panchami (5th lunar day of the dark half). Its weakest period is from Krishna Shashti (6th lunar day of the dark half) until Amavasya (New Moon). From Shukla Pratipada to Dashmi, its strength is moderate.

When the Moon forms conjunctions or aspects with malefic planets like Saturn, Mars, Rahu, or Ketu, it becomes afflicted, leading to mental or emotional imbalances. A debilitated Moon, especially in Scorpio often indicates instability, mood swings, and emotional challenges. Conversely, when exalted in Taurus, it brings serenity and balance. For ascendants in Pisces, Scorpio, Libra, Cancer, and Aries, the Moon plays a favorable role as it governs key houses.

Diseases Caused by a Malefic Moon in Different Signs

The Moon energizes all other planets and is closely tied to childhood. If weak at birth and conjoined with malefics without benefic support, it may threaten a child’s health or longevity. A malefic Moon in critical houses like the 1st, 5th, 7th, 8th, 9th, or 12^th especially when influenced by Venus, Jupiter, or Mercury, can bring severe consequences, even untimely death.

Being a windy and phlegmatic planet, a weakened Moon may cause the following health issues depending on its placement:

• Aries: Weak lungs, breathing difficulties, blood-related problems.
• Taurus: Issues with throat, eyes, neck, tonsils, or speech.
• Gemini: Respiratory disorders and blood ailments.
• Cancer: Problems with chest, stomach, or blood.
• Leo: Heart and circulatory system disorders.
• Virgo: Skin conditions and digestive troubles.
• Libra: Urinary and kidney issues, headaches, stomach problems.
• Scorpio: Chronic sickness, urinary problems, and reproductive health issues.
• Sagittarius: Blood and liver disorders, nerve pain, sciatica, or lumbago.
• Capricorn: Frequent minor illnesses, constipation, urticaria, rheumatism.
• Aquarius: Weakness, anemia, dizziness, eye troubles, nervous disorders.
• Pisces: Frequent infections, blood problems, and issues with feet or soles.

Malefic Moon During Its Mahadasha

When the Moon is afflicted, its negative effects intensify during its Mahadasha. Possible health concerns include:

• If Moon as Ascendant lord is weak in the 6th house, the native suffers recurring ailments.
• A malefic Moon in the 8th or 12th house without benefic support may endanger life in early childhood.
• Since the Moon rules the right eye in women and left eye in men, affliction by Saturn or other malefics can cause vision problems.
• Moon governs the chest, and Mercury the respiratory system. When both are afflicted by Saturn or Rahu, asthma may occur.
• Moon combined with Sun and Mars in the 6th house can lead to severe abdominal pains.
• Moon in Cancer, afflicted by Saturn, Mars, or Rahu, may result in tuberculosis.
• A malefic Moon in the 5th, 8th, or 12th house with Rahu and other malefics may cause psychiatric issues, depression, and even suicidal tendencies.

Other Challenges from a Weak Moon

Beyond physical health, an afflicted Moon can cause:

• Strained relationships with the mother or maternal figures.
• Domestic and emotional instability.
• Property or financial disputes.
• Difficulty with emotional regulation, leading to mental distress.

Remedies for a Weak or Malefic Moon

Astrology prescribes several remedies to counter the ill effects of a weakened Moon:

• Wear a high-quality Pearl set in silver on the little finger of the right hand, preferably on a Monday during Shukla Paksha after moonrise.
• Donate white items such as food, clothes, or milk on Mondays, particularly to young Brahmins.
• Show respect to your mother or motherly figures. Touching their feet is considered highly auspicious.
• Bathe using items associated with the Moon to purify body and mind.
• Chant the Moon’s mantra or “Om Namah Shivaya” to strengthen its positive influence.
• Install a Moon Yantra at home to reduce its malefic effects.