Fingernails?
Fingernails tell important stories about you … and not just in the fashion sense!
See Beyond What Your Manicurist Sees!
The manicurist might not recognize the symptoms your fingernails portray. However, some practitioners of Eastern and Western Medicine or of Holistic Healing Modalities can identify health problems by looking at your fingernails before you cover them up with nail polish. 
Resource Options
Here are some resources before we continue. They help define our terms of Eastern, Western, and Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM / holistic healing). They also provide more pictures and links than I can include in this blog.
The National Institute of Health (NIH) compares Eastern and Western approaches to medicine and health.
On the other hand, an easier way to understand it may be found in the blog of a person who has practiced “all of the above.” Dr. Emili Kim describes his findings.
I am neither a physician nor a practitioner of Eastern Medicine. However, I am certified in several holistic healing (CAM) methods. I can share what they know and what I know as you stare at your fingernails.
East Meets West with Holistic Healing in the Center
Ayurveda, Chinese medicine, alternative medicine, and now Western medicine often agree on the value of “reading” fingernails (and toenails), eyes, ears, and tongues in the diagnostic process.
In case you’ve ever wondered, that’s why the American doctor has you stick out your tongue and say “Aaa-aaaa-ah.” AND ~
It is how reflexologists can help you by manipulating points in your ears! Of course, that implies you can help yourself by doing the massage yourself on your ears, hands, feet, etc.!
That’s also how Louise Hay (a world-renowned holistic healer) could correlate physical symptoms with emotional symptoms as the underlying causes and effects of “dis-eases.”
Louise Hay’s books, “Heal Your Body” and “You Can Heal Your Life” include a list of most body parts and the associations of psychological or emotional issues with symptoms. Those indicators occur when the body is communicating with you about issues to which you need to pay attention. Louise then offers affirmations for each condition. They can help you change your thinking and heal your body in the process.
Although she passed away, her work goes on, and you can learn from her and her followers.
Today, we’re going to concentrate on fingernail analysis. We’ll see what relationships exist between physical organs and fingernail appearances. Then, we’ll look at the psychological states relating to those appearances. More about that in a minute.
Ayurveda and Ayurvedic Remedies
Briefly, my favorite little book about Ayurvedic science is by Dr. Vasant Lad. It is called, Ayurveda, the Science of Self-Healing.
- Ayurveda (a form of East Indian medicine) means ‘the science of life.’
- Lad also authored The Complete Book of Ayurvedic Remedies, available through Amazon and elsewhere. To learn more about Ayurveda, Click Here.
- This link to Deepak Chopra’s healing center will give you much more insight and information about it.
Understanding Disease Conditions Using Fingernail and Other Kinds of Analyses
Below are some examples of disease conditions related to the visible state of your fingernails. I’ve included links for Dr. Lad, The Guild of Naturopathic Iridologists International, Natural Health Techniques Fingernail Analysis, and WebMD. They have articles about fingernails and health. Here’s another one about health and beauty. https://www.health.com/beauty/nail-health.
Fingernail Analyses
What to Look For in Medicine and Alternative Medicine Viewpoints
These fingers (or “digits”) reflect conditions in various organs and body systems, as follows.
- Thumb: brain, excretory system, and reproductive organs.
- Index Finger: liver, gallbladder, and the nervous system.
- Middle Finger: heart and circulation.
- Ring Finger: reproductive organs and the hormonal system.
- Little Finger: digestive system.
Now, let’s match that up with Louise Hay’s list of what each finger signifies. She says fingers represent the “details of life.” She offers affirmations to help you address these issues as relate to your own life.
- Thumb: intellect and worry
- Index Finger: ego and fear
- Middle Finger: Anger and sexuality
- Ring Finger: unions and grief
- Little Finger: family and pretending
Let’s use just one example for the sake of relative brevity. (We could have many classes on this subject.)
“Vertical Ridges and Split Fingernails
There are lots of conditions which may be indicated by this symptom. You and your healthcare provider will have to determine which ones apply to you. Here are some possibilities.
Adrenal gland problems
arthritic tendencies
asthma
broken heart
bronchitis
calcium deficiency
constant fatigue
chronic inflammation
continual stress
depression
emotional trauma
excretory system conditions
hyperactivity or overexertion
iron deficiency
kidney problems
laryngitis
nervous problems
poor digestion/absorption in the small intestine
chemicals from food, dieting
protein deficiency
respiratory problems
unhappiness
Vitamin A deficiency
yeast and other fungi
lupus, chemo, or radiation side effect
drugs or prescription use.
You can see that many of these conditions are related to one another. For example, we all know there are several consequences simply to having “a broken heart.”
Fingernails Protect You and Also Need Protection
Nails, according to Louise Hay, relate to “protection.”
Physically, they protect the fingers which we use to reach out in life and to do work.
Even the cuticle of the nails protects against disease and infection. That, by the way, is why your manicurist should “push back” the cuticles gently, NOT cut them!
What Does the American Academy of Dermatology Say About the Functions of Fingernails?
The primary function of fingernails is to protect the fingertips, enhance tactile sensitivity, and aid in grasping and manipulating objects. They act as a shield for the delicate tissues of the fingertips, preventing injury, while also providing structural support to the fingertips to improve precision and dexterity in fine motor tasks. Additionally, nails serve as a visual indicator of overall health, reflecting potential nutritional deficiencies or medical conditions (American Academy of Dermatology, 2023).
Reference:
American Academy of Dermatology. (2023). Nail health: What your nails say about your health. Retrieved from www.aad.org
Do Nail Polish and Fake Nails Harm Fingernails?
I wrote most of this article in 2018, and people loved it enough for me to choose to share it again now. But, as long as we’re on the topic of fingernails, this time, I asked ChatGPT to answer the following question. Here is its answer.
Is it harmful to the fingernails or the function of fingernails to cover them with nail polish or acrylic false nails?
ChatGPT said:
Yes, frequent use of nail polish or acrylic false nails can have negative effects on fingernail health and function. Here’s how:
Potential Harm to Nails
- Weakening & Brittleness – Regular use of nail polish and removers (especially acetone-based) can dry out nails, making them brittle and prone to splitting.
- Nail Thinning – Acrylics and gel nails require buffing, which thins the nail plate, making it weaker over time.
- Fungal & Bacterial Infections – Acrylic or gel nails trap moisture, creating a breeding ground for fungi or bacteria under the nail.
- Yellowing & Discoloration – Dark or prolonged polish use can stain natural nails.
- Interference with Natural Function – Nails provide tactile sensitivity and protection. Thick artificial nails can reduce sensation and make fine motor tasks difficult.
- Allergic Reactions & Irritation – Some nail products contain harsh chemicals (like formaldehyde or toluene) that can cause irritation or allergic reactions.
Tips to Minimize Damage
- Take breaks from polish or acrylics to let nails recover.
- Use non-acetone removers and moisturizing cuticle oil.
- Choose breathable or water-based nail polishes.
- Keep nails hydrated with hand lotion and biotin supplements.
What Is The Point of Talking About Fingernails?
The objective is to remind you that your body “talks to you.” It provides many clues about issues you must address while they’re still small.
Body, mind, emotions, and soul are connected.
They constantly strive for good health and balance.
We must help achieve that.
Don’t just “cross your fingers” and hope for the best!
Take action.
Disclaimer
I cannot and do not diagnose or claim to cure any physical or medical condition. I recommend you contact your healthcare provider(s) for good advice. Clearly, this website is for educational purposes only.
Sip & Share Session With Me on Zoom
If you want to talk about health topics, personal or spiritual growth, or use me as a “sounding board” for your ideas, email me at GetWellStayWell@Outlook.com and request a FREE Sip & Share Session on Zoom. We’ll coordinate schedules. Next, I’ll create an online meeting for us, and we can talk for about half an hour to see what’s on your mind and how I might help you.
Meanwhile,
Let’s Get Well, Stay Well, Live Well Now!
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