Mercury (Budh)
Mercury (Budh) is the planet of intellect, speech, learning, trade and humour. It governs how you think, speak and calculate, and it readily takes on the colour of the planets it sits with.
Also known as: budha, budh graha
Budh is the prince of the planetary court: quick, curious and youthful. A strong Mercury gives sharp reasoning, wit, skill with words and numbers, and talent for business, accounts, writing, media and technology. It also signifies friends, maternal relatives and the joy of learning.
Mercury rules Gemini and Virgo, is exalted in Virgo and debilitated in Pisces. It is a natural benefic but a chameleon: with benefics it behaves well, and with malefics it takes on their colour. Never more than about 28° from the Sun, it is often combust or joins the Sun in Budhaditya yoga.
Mercury turns retrograde about three times a year, a good time to review, edit and double-check rather than to worry. Traditional supports include worship of Ganesha or Vishnu on Wednesdays and an emerald, worn only after a chart check.