Changes in nails’ shape or texture may be an indication of an ailment. Brittle nails usually indicate mineral and iron deficiency as well as vitamin A and D deficiency. It also indicates thyroid problems and poor blood circulation in the body. The symptoms include easy breaking of nails, peeling at nail tips, and inability of the nails to grow out.
The causes for this condition may be deficiency of nutrients, harsh soap or irritants like nail polish or remover, continuous exposure to water, drying for long, hot bath, etc. It may also be due to poor protein digestion and low stomach acids. Brittle nails can be treated with herbal remedies.
Herbal Remedies For Brittle Nails
Horsetail
The mature stems of the herb are used for treating various conditions. It contains high amount of silicates and silicic acid providing the body about 3% of elemental silicon. It contains minerals that assist the weak and brittle nails and also white spot on nails. Silica prevents nails from breaking and cracking.
Take two teaspoons of dried herb in a bowl containing water and allow to stand for some time to make the infusion. Soak your nails in the infusion for 15 minutes. This helps to fix and strengthen brittle nails effectively. Repeat this four times a day for best results. It has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is beneficial for strengthening nails and it makes nails healthy and beautiful. Applying Aloe vera gel on nails can improve brittle nails condition and protects them. It moisturizes and hydrates the nails. Aloe vera juice can also be consumed for treating brittle nails.
Aloe vera juice along with hazel is excellent to treat brittle nails. Take two tablespoons Aloe vera gel and a few drops of hazel in a bowl and whisk well, so that they blend completely. Gently rub this gel on your fingernails and wipe out the excess gel using a paper towel. This will keep the nails conditioned and healthy.
Rosemary
Take a nail bath with fully charged rosemary infusion (whole-dry plant infusion) to restore brittle nails. It helps nails remain long and strong. It moisturizes brittle nails and strengthens them. It has rich antioxidants and anti-microbial properties.
Take dried rosemary leaves, dried roses and white vinegar in a jar and allow it to steep for 2 days. Strain the liquid and use this for rinsing your nails to improve the brittle nail condition. Do it regularly for better results.
Chamomile
The flowers are used for herbal treatment. It has antifungal and antibacterial properties. When it is applied topically on the nails, it strengthens the nails and eradicates any infection.
It is available in the form of tea and creams. Chamomile tea can also be used as a nail bath. Take some chamomile flowers, add one-cup water, and boil it. Drain the liquid and drink the tea or use it as a nail bath. Repeat this regularly to strengthen brittle nails.
Neem
Neem has antibacterial and antifungal properties. It fends nail infections when used directly. Neem oil and leaves provide excellent nail care. It encourages the growth of healthy nail tissues. It promotes quick healing of degenerated cells when applied topically on nails.
Neem oil can be applied on the nails directly. It strengthens brittle and broken nails and moisturizes them. It has vitamin E. Regular massaging improves nail growth and make them soft and flexible. Apply neem oil thrice a day for good results.
Caution: Please use Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.