Mercury (बुध) in Vedic Astrology
Mercury (Budh) is the prince — the karaka of intellect, logic, speech, learning, trade, calculation and communication. It is neutral and takes on the nature of the planets it joins, so its results depend heavily on its associations.
Quick facts
| Sanskrit name | Budh |
| Signifies (Karaka) | Intellect, speech, trade, communication |
| Nature | Benefic (variable) |
| Element | Earth |
| Gender | Neutral |
| Own sign(s) | Gemini, Virgo |
| Exaltation | Virgo (15°) |
| Debilitation | Pisces (15°) |
| Mooltrikona | Virgo 15°–20° |
| Friends | Sun, Venus |
| Enemies | Moon |
| Directional strength | 1st house (east) |
| Day | Wednesday |
| Gemstone | Emerald |
| Deity | Vishnu |
| Dasha period | 17 years |
When it is strong / well-placed
- Sharp intellect and quick learning
- Eloquent, witty speech
- Success in trade, writing and analysis
- Good business and mathematical sense
When it is weak or afflicted
- Confused thinking or poor judgement
- Speech, stammering or nervous issues
- Losses in trade or through documents
- Anxiety and indecision
Career & life areas
Mercury favours business and trade, accounting, writing, teaching, IT, media, communication and any work with numbers, language or analysis.
Nakshatras ruled
In the Vimshottari dasha system Mercury rules three of the 27 nakshatras: Ashlesha, Jyeshtha, Revati. Planets and the Moon falling in these nakshatras carry Mercury's flavour and start its dasha.
Remedies
- Recite Vishnu Sahasranama on Wednesdays
- Donate green moong; feed cows green fodder
- Help students; respect scholars
- Wear an Emerald only after chart confirmation