Nail Problems

Our nail condition can reflect a multitude of problems found elsewhere in our bodies.

For example bacterial infections, vitamin deficiencies and skin conditions will all affect the look and health of our nails.

While some people resort to covering unsightly nails with artificial ones, this hardly cures the problem.

It is best to use a home remedy to get the nails back to a healthy condition first and then work on the cosmetic appearance.

Causes of Nail Problems:

The main causes on nail problems are:

• Bacterial, fungal or viral infection in the body
• Eczema, psoriasis and other skin conditions
• Arthritis
• Accident or trauma to the fingers or toes
• Age
• Nail biting
• Exposure to chemicals through cleaning and cosmetic products

Symptoms of a Nail Problem:

There are many different types of nail problems that have different symptoms, but generally speaking someone with a nail problem may notice some or all of the following characteristics:

• Discoloration of the nail and skin
• White spots on the nail
• Separation of the nail from the nail bed
• Vertical splits or cracks
• Ridges
• Sore, inflamed fingertips and nail beds
• Fungus may be present

Natural Cures for Nail Problems:

In some cases, nail problems need attention and medication from a doctor (ie. when the infection is spreading and severe pain is felt), but for many simpler cases of nail problems such as ridges, separations and splits, a long list of natural cures is available to treat them.

Almond Oil:

A soothing natural cure for problem nails is to massage pure almond oil in everyday, morning and night.

Make sure the oil is 100% natural and not synthetic to get results.

Tea Tree Oil:

This home remedy is specifically for nail problems caused by bacteria or fungal infections.

Tea tree oil is an antibacterial agent and will alleviate the symptoms of nail problems.

Use a few drops a day and massage into the nail and cuticle.

Be careful as pure tea tree oil can irritate the surrounding skin.

Zinc:

Increasing your zinc intake is a natural cure for nail ailments as it fights infection and promotes healthy nail tissue.

Eat zinc- fortified foods such as spinach, nuts, beans and salmon.

Gloves:

For anyone with a history of nail infections, wearing gloves anytime the hands are immersed in water or are in contact with cleaning products is a must.

The bacteria in water as well as the harmful chemicals in cleaning products can contribute to nail infections.

Aloe Vera:

Many natural cures exist for fungal nail problems, including using a paste of Aloe Vera and turmeric on the nails daily.

Use this mixture until the problem has cleared up.

Liver cleanse:

Home remedies that treat other conditions can also have a positive effect on the nails.

If you are wondering how to remove nail problems with a liver cleanse, the answer is simple.

Liver cleanses clear out parasites, heavy metal toxins and free radicals that build up in the system and cause bacterial and fungal infections.

Doing regular liver and bowel cleanses will improve the health and appearance of your nails permanently.