Aztec civilization
The Aztec civilization flourished in Central Mexico between the 14th and 16th centuries CE. Known for their sophisticated engineering, the Aztecs built impressive cities, intricate irrigation systems, and even artificial islands called chinampas for agriculture. Their society was highly structured, with a powerful emperor, a noble class, skilled artisans, merchants, farmers, and even slaves. Religion played a central role in Aztec life, with a vast pantheon of gods and elaborate ceremonies that sometimes included human sacrifice. Despite their advancements, the Aztec empire was conquered by the Spanish in 1521 CE, marking the end of their civilization.

Xochipilli
The Aztec God Xochipilli is associated with pleasure, flowers, sacred medicinal plants, sexuality and the arts of poetry, painting, writing and song. He was popular and beloved by the Aztecs as a lighthearted god capable of mischief and practical jokes. Xochipilli continues to inspire artists, musicians and dancers for his playful spirit and boundless creative energy.

Aztec astrology
Aztec astrology was a complex system that was deeply intertwined with their calendar system and religious beliefs. It was used to understand the destinies of individuals and to determine the auspicious times for important events.  

The Aztec Calendar System

The Aztecs had two main calendars:  

The Tonalpohualli: This was a 260-day sacred calendar that was used for divination and astrology. It was divided into 20 periods of 13 days each, with each day having its own unique sign and associated deity.  
The Xiuhpohualli: This was a 365-day solar calendar that was used for agriculture and other practical purposes. It was divided into 18 periods of 20 days each, with five extra days at the end of the year.  
Aztec Zodiac Signs

The Aztecs had 20 zodiac signs, each associated with a different day in the Tonalpohualli calendar. These signs were:  

Cipactli (Crocodile)  
Ehecatl (Wind)  
Calli (House)  
Cuetzpalin (Lizard)
Coatl (Snake)
Miquiztli (Death)
Mazatl (Deer)
Tochtli (Rabbit)  
Atl (Water)
Itzcuintli (Dog)  
Ozomahtli (Monkey)  
Malinalli (Grass)
Acatl (Reed)  
Ocelotl (Jaguar)  
Cuauhtli (Eagle)  
Cozcaquauhtli (Vulture)  
Ollin (Movement)
Tecpatl (Flint)
Quiahuitl (Rain)
Xochitl (Flower)
Each sign was believed to have its own unique characteristics and influence on the personality and destiny of a person born under that sign.

Aztec Astrology and Divination

Aztec priests were skilled astrologers and diviners. They used the Tonalpohualli calendar and the zodiac signs to cast horoscopes and make predictions about the future. They also used astrology to determine the auspicious times for important events, such as weddings, battles, and religious ceremonies.  

Legacy of Aztec Astrology

Although the Aztec civilization was conquered by the Spanish in the 16th century, their astrological traditions have survived to this day. Many people in Mexico and other parts of the world still use Aztec astrology to understand themselves and their place in the universe.

Aztec healing herbs
The Aztecs possessed a deep understanding of the natural world, and this knowledge extended to the medicinal properties of plants. Aztec healers, known as “ticitl,” were skilled in identifying and preparing herbal remedies for a wide range of ailments.  

Here are some examples of Aztec healing herbs and their uses:

Yauhtli (Tagetes lucida): This plant, similar to marigold, was used to treat digestive issues, fevers, and as a diuretic. It was also used in rituals and ceremonies.
Yauhtli (Tagetes lucida) plant
Iztauhyatl (Artemisia mexicana): This plant, similar to wormwood, was used to treat weakness, colic, and coughs. It was also believed to have spiritual cleansing properties.
Iztauhyatl (Artemisia mexicana) plant
Cempohualxochitl (Tagetes erecta): This marigold species was used to treat fevers, dropsy, and as a purgative. It was also used to decorate altars and offerings.
Cempohualxochitl (Tagetes erecta) plant
Tlalcapulin (Rhamnus serrata): This plant was used to treat dysentery and bloody bowels.  
Tlalcapulin (Rhamnus serrata) plant
Xalxocotl (Psidium guajava): The guava plant was used to treat digestive issues, dysentery, and mange.
Xalxocotl (Psidium guajava) plant
Cihuapatli (Montanoa tomentosa): This plant was used as a diuretic, to induce labor, and to treat dropsy.
Cihuapatli (Montanoa tomentosa) plant
The Aztecs often combined herbs with other ingredients, such as salt, to enhance their effectiveness. They also used various methods of preparation, including infusions, decoctions, poultices, and enemas.