In Vedic astrology, Budh (Mercury) is the planet of intellect, communication, business acumen, analytical skills, and adaptability. A well-placed Mercury in one’s birth chart blesses a person with sharp wit, eloquence, quick decision-making, and financial prosperity, particularly in trade, writing, and teaching. But when Mercury is weak, afflicted, or retrograde, it can bring confusion, speech issues, financial instability, and poor decision-making.
Astrological Significance of Budh (Mercury)
Mercury governs:
- Speech & Communication
- Memory & Intelligence
- Business Skills
- Mathematics & Logic
- Trade, Marketing, Writing
Zodiac Ownership:
- Gemini (Mithun) and Virgo (Kanya).
Friendly Planets:
- Sun & Venus.
Enemy Planets:
- Moon (neutral in some cases), Rahu (variable).
Metal:
- Bronze
Color:
- Green
Signs of Weak or Afflicted Mercury
You may have a weak Mercury if you experience:
- Difficulty expressing thoughts clearly.
- Nervousness during public speaking.
- Short attention span or memory lapses.
- Frequent misunderstandings in communication.
- Business losses despite efforts.
- Skin problems or allergies.
- Weak mathematical ability.
In astrology, these issues might arise if Mercury is debilitated (in Pisces), combust (too close to the Sun), retrograde, or afflicted by malefics like Saturn, Rahu, or Ketu.
Want to know more about Graha (Planet) Remedies
Wednesday Fast (Budhvar Vrat) — Step-by-Step Guide
Fasting on Wednesdays is one of the most recommended ways to strengthen Mercury’s energy.
Purpose:
- Improve speech clarity.
- Boost business luck.
- Sharpen intellect and memory.
Rules to Follow:
Preparation (Day Before)
- Avoid consuming alcohol, non-vegetarian food, and onion/garlic from Tuesday evening.
- Keep your mind calm and avoid unnecessary arguments.
Morning Ritual
- Wake up early, bathe, and wear green or light-colored clothes.
- Clean your home temple and place an image/idol of Lord Vishnu or Budh Graha Yantra.
- Light a ghee lamp and incense sticks.
- Offer green flowers, tulsi leaves, and green fruits to Lord Vishnu.
Fasting Method
- You can keep a nirjala fast (without water) if health permits, or a phalahaari fast (fruits, milk, and water only).
- If unable to fast completely, avoid salt, grains, and spicy food — eat only green moong sprouts, fruits, or milk products.
Mantra Chanting
Recite the Budh Beej Mantra 108 times:
“Om Braam Breem Broum Sah Budhaya Namah”
Evening Puja
- Perform Vishnu Aarti.
- Read Budhvar Vrat Katha (story).
- Offer water mixed with green cardamom to the Tulsi plant.
Breaking the Fast
- End your fast after sunset by eating moong dal khichdi or any green-colored satvik food.
Green Gram (Moong Dal) Donation
Donating green gram is another direct remedy for Mercury doshas.
Why Green Gram?
- Green color corresponds to Mercury’s energy.
- Moong dal represents purity, health, and harmony.
When to Donate:
- On Wednesdays, ideally before noon.
- During Mercury’s hora (planetary hour) for maximum effect.
Whom to Donate:
- Poor students, young children, or Brahmins.
- Food donation to temples and orphanages is also auspicious.
How to Donate:
- Donate raw green gram along with a small packet of sugar and green vegetables.
- Alternatively, cook moong dal and serve it as prasad to the needy.
Other Remedies to Strengthen Mercury
Apart from fasting and donation, these remedies work well:
Mantra Chanting
- Daily chanting of “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya” strengthens Mercury through Vishnu’s blessings.
Gemstone Therapy
- Wearing an Emerald (Panna) in gold or bronze on the little finger (after consulting an astrologer).
Yantra Worship
- Install a Budh Yantra in your puja room and worship it daily.
Vedic Homas
- Budh Graha Shanti Homa for severe afflictions.
Lifestyle Adjustments
- Practice good communication habits.
- Avoid lying and speaking harshly.
- Keep your surroundings clean and clutter-free.
Benefits of Wednesday Fast & Moong Donation
Spiritual Benefits:
- Enhanced wisdom and speech.
- Improved concentration during meditation.
Material Benefits:
- Business growth and financial stability.
- Academic success for students.
- Favorable job interviews and negotiations.
Health Benefits:
- Better digestive health (moong is light on the stomach).
- Reduced skin issues and allergies linked with weak Mercury.
Dos & Don’ts
✅ Dos:
- Begin fast with pure intention (sankalpa).
- Offer green items to Lord Vishnu or Budh Graha.
- Maintain calmness and politeness throughout the day.
❌ Don’ts:
- Avoid harsh words, gossip, and lying.
- Do not skip the fast abruptly in the middle of the day.
- Avoid wearing black or dark red on Wednesdays.
FAQs
Q1: Can I do the Wednesday fast if I am working?
Yes, you can — opt for a fruit/milk fast so your energy levels remain steady.
Q2: Is green gram donation compulsory with the fast?
Not compulsory, but it greatly enhances the benefits of the fast.
Q3: Can pregnant women observe this fast?
Yes, but only in a light form (fruits/milk) and after consulting a doctor.
Q4: How long should I do this fast?
Traditionally, 21 consecutive Wednesdays are recommended for noticeable effects.
Q5: Will this help in clearing debts?
Yes, by improving financial stability and decision-making skills, it indirectly supports debt repayment.
Final Thoughts
Budh Graha governs intellect, communication, and business success — three pillars essential in modern life. Weak Mercury can subtly affect every decision and interaction, but by following simple remedies like Wednesday fasting and green gram donation, you can invite clarity, wisdom, and prosperity into your life.
While these remedies are spiritually potent, they work best alongside practical action — disciplined work, clear communication, and ethical conduct. Combine the power of astrology with smart daily habits, and you’ll soon notice positive shifts in both your personal and professional worlds.
