We use our hands to express ourselves, so healthy nails are important. Nails are made of keratin, a strong fibrous protein that is produced by cells beneath the cuticle at the nail’s base. Nails grow about 1/250 of an inch daily (about 1/3 to 1/2 as fast as hair). Nail growth is generally faster during the summer and between the ages of 18 and 28 for some yet- undiscovered reason. Here are some natural ways to strengthen weak nails.
NUTRIENTS THAT STRENGTHEN NAILS
The best nail hardeners are nourishing foods, rich in trace minerals and phytochemicals: fresh fruit and vegetables, especially green leafy vegetables, sea vegetables, nuts, and seeds. Drink mineral-rich teas of nettles, horsetail, and oat straw, one quart (950 ml) daily individually or mixed together.
Gently massage the cuticles whenever applying hand lotion to keep them pliable and less likely to crack. Polishing nails with a buff gives them a natural shine.
STRATEGIES FOR STOPPING NAIL BITING AND OTHER BAD HABITS
Biting your nails and cuticles can cause swelling and redness and make one prone to infections of the hands. Nail biting can also cause dental problems. Biting the nails can be an indication of stress and/or a calcium deficiency. So as a start, take a daily supplement of calcium (1,000 mg) and magnesium (500 mg). You can also use tea tree oil topically on the fingers as the pungent taste is a bitter deterrent to nail biting.
To stop biting your nails, start by making a list of the reasons why you should stop. Put it where you will read it—above a sink, on a mirror, on a bookmark, or in your wallet. Being clear about why you want to give up a habit is important.
If you do catch yourself indulging in the habit, say “Stop” aloud to yourself and later under your breath. Every time you catch yourself engaging in a bad habit, write it down in your calendar or journal. Wear a loose elastic band around your wrist and snap it hard every time you indulge.
This How To Make Nails Stronger article is taken from :
The Country Almanac of Home Remedies - Brigitte Mars
