Just like our hair and skin, our nails need proper care too. Dirty nails—especially those on our hands—can pose health risks, as they may transfer germs into your body when you eat with your hands.

Unclean nails can harbor a lot of bacteria, and if you frequently eat with your hands, those germs can easily end up in your stomach. Brittle or weak nails may also be a sign of underlying health issues.

While nail care products are widely available, excessive use can sometimes do more harm than good. That’s why it’s important to maintain the natural health and shape of your nails.

Before turning to store-bought solutions, why not give some natural home remedies a try? They’re safe, simple, and can help you achieve strong, glossy nails without the side effects.

Here are eight effective home remedies to promote healthy nails:

# Coconut Oil

Gently massage your nails and cuticles with lukewarm coconut oil. This improves blood circulation around the nails, promotes growth, and helps keep the cuticles soft and nourished.

# Almond Oil

Mix a teaspoon of almond oil with a few drops of lemon juice and soak your hands in it for a couple of minutes. Rich in antioxidants and nutrients, almond oil strengthens nails and helps prevent breakage.

# Sea Salt Soak

Add a spoonful of sea salt to a bowl of warm water and soak your nails for about 10 minutes. Doing this twice a day, a few times a week, can naturally stimulate nail growth and improve their overall health.

# Eggshell Powder

Eggshells are packed with calcium, iron, protein, and minerals like magnesium and potassium—perfect for protecting nails from damage. Blend crushed eggshells with almonds, flaxseeds, and pecans to make a fine powder. Consume a teaspoon of this mix with warm milk every morning for best results.

# Garlic

Garlic is a fantastic natural remedy for nail health. It helps prevent infections, supports growth, and adds shine. Simply rub a sliced garlic clove over your nails. Alternatively, you can make a garlic paste, apply it to your nails for five minutes, then rinse. Repeat daily for a week to see visible improvements.

# Tomato Juice

Tomatoes, rich in antioxidants and proteins, are great for brittle nails. Mix two tablespoons of tomato juice with a few drops of rosemary oil. Soak your nails in this mixture for about 10 minutes or apply it directly. This blend helps strengthen weak nails and encourages growth.

# Protein-Rich Diet

Since nails are primarily made of keratin, a type of protein, it’s essential to include protein-rich foods in your diet. Incorporate eggs, fish, cheese, nuts, and other protein sources to keep your nails strong and healthy from within.

# Apple Cider Vinegar

Mix a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar into 2–3 cups of warm water. Soak a cotton ball in the solution and dab it onto your nails. The alpha-hydroxy and acetic acids help moisturize, strengthen, and nourish the nails naturally.