NAILS

Keep an eye on your nails. They are another of the body's barometers of general health!

Flaking nails might be an indication of some far greater imbalance within. Doctors in some countries, like the UK, diagnose the nails to determine symptoms of life-threatening ailments, including heart diseases.

Healthy nails depend on a diet containing adequate proteins, vitamins, essential minerals and trace elements, notably zinc and iodine. 

Brittle nails can indicate a Vitamin A or retinol deficiency. Chlorine in swimming pools and harsh detergents can be responsible too.

Hangnails, which can be painful as the lower, sensitive dermis is exposed, may be crying out for rich moisturizing. They may also indicate a dietary deficiency of folic acid, a particularly common problem with women. Liver and green vegetables are great sources of folic acid.

Make a natural cuticle softener...

Blend together  2 tbsp pineapple juice, 2 tbsp egg yolk and 1/2 tsp cider vinegar and soak the nails in it for 30 minutes. Gently push the cuticles back with an orange stick.

and a Nail Strengthener

Lemon Juice

Cider Vinegar

Cider vinegar - and lemon juice - is good for general health and for strengthening the nails. 3 times a day drink a glass of water containig 1 tbsp of cider vinegar or pure lemon juice. Or use the mixture as a handbath.