Do
you have brittle, cracked and coarse nails? Did you
know that having bad nails is infact a sign of having
bad health? Nail problems may signal a more serious
disorder such as asthma, emphysema or heart disease,
improper nutrition and stress. Hence it is very important
that you take care of your nails. Vitamins and herbs
can be used to aid with healing of nail problems since
it is known that good nutrition is the key to healthy
nails.
Fingernails,
which are made mainly of a protein known as keratin,
are one of the body's strongest tissues and they protect
our fingernails and toe nails. Hence it is necessary
that you take in enough protein and vitamins to ensure
proper nail growth. Insufficiency of essential vitamins
and calcium result in ragged cuticles, brittle or
dry nails.
Following
are the essential vitamins, minerals, calcium and
herbs that are required for healthy nails:
Amino acid complex, vitamin C, vitamin
E and biotin taken together will help the body build
keratin which infact improves the overall health of
your nails.
Ridges in the fingernail are a sign
of insufficient B vitamins. Hence include vitamin
B in your diet.
Calcium and bone building formulas will
benefit the nails by supplying much needed minerals.
A paste made with alum and water is
effective in relieving ingrown nails.
If you have swollen and painful fingernails,
then put a piece of fresh lemon to the infected area
and it will work as magic.
Tea tree oil, garlic oil and calendula
ointment are the best treatments for nail fungus.
Also wear gloves while cleaning and
keep your fingernails short.
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