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The fingernails are the by-product (mala) of the asthi dhatu (bones). Each dhatu is inter-related as they nourish each other in a sequential fashion. This means that the condition of the nails reflects the condition of all body tissues up to majja and shukra dhatus and their related upadhatus and malas. The solutions for problems with the nails, then, have to address the balance and nourishment of the whole system.
Conditions of the Nails:
- Horizontal indentations indicate a derangement in agni a weakening in the digestive capacity.
- Vertical ridges show long – standing Vat derangement. This often means a weakened digestion that does not metabolize minerals or proteins well and a lack in Vitamin B12 and Iron.
- White spots show calcium or zinc deficiency. They often appear after a period of eating sweets, especially refined sugars that leech minerals out of the body.
- Bitten nails show nervousness, mineral deficiency, or intestinal parasites – generally a high Vata condition.
- Hang nails show a lack of protein, Vitamin C. and folic acid in the body due to low intake of these nutrients or poor absorption.
- Brittle nails show low iron or Vitamin A, imbalanced thyroid or kidney function and poor circulation.
- Split nails show low agni in the stomach.
- Reddish purple nails show weakening of the body and general fatigue.
- Dark red nails show blood stagnation due to eating heavy, salty, fatty foods.
- Yellowish nails show liver imbalance.
- Bluish nails show lung and heart imbalance.
- Pale nails show poor blood condition, anemia, and low liver and kidney energy.
The condition of the nails is not only influenced by the blood quality and nourishment from the other dhatus, but also by the electromagnetic energy that flows through the body in the system of meridians. If a particular nail has problems, look for a corresponding imbalance in the organ whose meridian is associated with that finger and nail.
- Thumb nail is an indicator for the brain.
- Index finger nail is an indicator for the lungs and colon.
- Middle finger nail is an indicator for the small intestine.
- Ring finger nail is an indicator for the kidney.
- Little finger nail is an indicator for the heart and female reproductive organs.
Following a diet and lifestyle that is suitable for your body type and condition is then a key to beautiful nails. The diet should be rich in proteins and nail building minerals such as sulphur, calcium, iron, silica, zinc, as well as essential fatty acids and vitamins like biotin, vitamin d and Vitamins A and Vitamins E. Check the diet section for sources of these nutrients.
Healthy nails are pinkish in color, smooth, and evenly shaped. The actual shape and consistency varies with which dosha is dominant. Vata – type nails tend to be the most irregular in shape and are prone to being pale and brittle. Pitta nails are an even oval shape, soft, flexible, and pink. Kopha nails are squarer, thick, and strong.
Like the skin and hair, healthy nails rely on their growth areas or roots being well nourished and efficiently cleansed. Nail care follows the familiar pattern of cleansing, then nourishing.
The same procedures to be described here can also be applied to the toe nails.
On a daily basis, use a soft nail brush to clean and massage the nails and finger tips. This not only cleans, but stimulates circulation. Rubbing the finger nails of both hands together (i.e. against each other) charges the body’s energy meridians. It is also said to promote hair growth.
Once a week give your nails a little extra care. Soak your nails in warm water and lemon juice. Take your fingertips out of the solution and gently scrub them with a brush. Soak again briefly, then pat dry. Now massage each nail with sesame or medicated oil. Neem oil nourishes and strengthens the nails while lemon oil is good for dry. Brittle nails. For the fingers and nails, follow steps 4 and 5 in the Hand Massage procedure.
A natural smoothness and shine can be brought to the nails by bathing them in warm vegetable oil with a few drops of added essential oils.
General Nail Care formula:
- 1 oz. almond oil
- 2 drops lavender oil
- 2 drops sandal wood oil
- 2 drops cypress oil
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Special Care Of Regions And Parts Of The Body
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