Libra (September 23 to October 22) rules the seventh house of the zodiac, the house of relationships and partnerships. Libra is the quintessential people pleaser of the zodiac. Ruled by Venus, Librans bring an air of grace and charm to any occasion. Relationships and friendships are of the utmost importance to Libra natives, more so than any other sign. In their efforts to maintain balance and harmony in their lives and relationships, it may seem they can never make up their minds.

Notice the next time you have lunch with your friends. Do they ever order first? More often than not they wait until you have ordered and then say, "I'll have the same thing." But nothing could be further from the truth regarding the state of their minds. They are intellectuals who prefer equilibrium over offending anyone.

Avocado
In ancient times, it was thought that the avocado promoted beauty. Many women then, as now, used a mask of mashed avocado to leave their skin soft and luminous. The oil is still a prime component in cosmetics to enhance beauty, making the avocado fully appropriate for the Venus-ruled Libran. The oil can also be used to mix up your new favorite dressing or marinade. Add chunks or slices of avocado to salads or sandwiches and break out the chips and guacamole. Although high in fat content, it is the "good" fat, so don't be afraid to indulge.

Berries
Berries of all kinds are favored by the Libra native. Various berries were believed to possess powers in ancient folklore. They were used as amulets against evil, to accumulate wealth and to insure prolific crops. The blueberry is known for its peace-generating and calming properties, helping Librans maintain their natural attributes. All other signs who are feeling edgy and out of sorts should head to the closest produce stand to get a dose of blueberries.

Celery
Celery was used for medicinal purposes until the Middle Ages. It is a natural diuretic, making it one of the best vegetables any Libra could eat, as the Scales rule the kidneys. Librans can be prone to kidney infections and stones, so it is a must to keep the kidneys flushed. Celery is loaded with potassium and fiber. It is known to lower blood pressure and produce a sense of calm. The versatility of celery is endless. It is wonderful in stews, soups and salads. It can be roasted with root vegetables to accompany any meat entrée. Celery is great raw as a crudités, filled with peanut butter or just plain sticks.

Marshmallows
Marshmallows date back to ancient Egyptian times. They were originally made with the sap from the marshmallow plant, which caused the gelatinous consistency. Now gelatin is used to hold that puffy shape. Marshmallows are used whole, in miniature form, to make Jell-O salads, candies, cookies and, of course, Rocky Road ice cream. Large and small are melted with butter to make delicious sauces and fudge. And every kid has certainly strung big fat, puffy ones on a stick, toasted them over a campfire to make ‘smores or pop the gooey mess into their mouths. These sweet treats satisfy the Libran sweet tooth, as sugary morsels tantalize their taste buds.

Peaches
Peaches originated in China, where they were appreciated as a symbol of immortality. In some cultures, they represent spiritual fertility and love. The ancients offered peach pie to the object of their affection to win his or her heart. You don't have to be ruled by the Goddess of Love to use this technique. So get into the kitchen, whip up a succulent peach pie and feed it to the one you have your eye on.

Peas
Peas were first mentioned in the Bible, but were made popular by King Louis XIV of France. Nothing can compare with fresh baby peas right from the pod, so tender and sweet. Peas are a good source of Libra's cell salt, sodium phosphate, which aids in digestion and the neutralization of acid that causes heartburn. So Libra or not, anytime you have over indulged in chilies, curry or other fiery dishes, try a bowl of sweet pea soup when other remedies fail.

Violets
Violets have been used for their medicinal properties for hundreds of years, especially as an antiseptic. The fragrant petals were used in wine-making by the Romans. They consumed the wine at many occasions, from ceremonial rituals to lavish feasts. Greeks of ancient times believed the violet, with its heart-shaped leaves, to be a symbol of love. This makes the violet markedly appropriate for Libra with the Goddess of Love, Venus, as the ruler.

Watercress
Watercress, with its pungent spicy taste, is abundant in Vitamin C. It is a member of the mustard family and grows in cool running water. It is best in salads and tea sandwiches, but can be lightly cooked for soups or with other vegetables. Said to be laden with feminine energy, it was a natural offering to the Goddess Venus.

About the Author
Sabra Ricci is a chef to the celebrities and a world-renowned caterer on the beautiful island of Maui, as well as an accomplished astrologer. She is renowned for her healthy, delectable menus. A graduate of the California Culinary Academy in San Francisco, Sabra worked in Paris for YES Catering Company and as a consultant at Grail Springs Spa in Canada. During the 2003 fashion week in New York City, Sabra was one of four chefs selected to participate in the 'Five Star Feast', a 'Chef to the Celebrities' cooking extravaganza and live demonstration hosted by Joan Lunden.