If your nails are flaky, include evening primrose oil in the diet or as a supplement. The oil contains the essential fatty acids necessary for the structure of the cell.

Too little iron in the diet can lead to thin, flat nails. Increase your iron intake by eating foods such as lean red meat, dried fruit and nuts and green vegetables.

Getting enough calcium, iron, zinc, protein and vitamins A, B and C is important as well.

Massaging a nail cream or oil into your nails every night helps the fingertips retain moisture. If you use one infused with lavender, it could help you fall asleep, too.

The citric acid in lemon juice works as a natural bleaching agent for discoloured nail tips. Dip a cotton swab in lemon juice and work it under the nail, then rinse after ten minutes for super-clean nails.

Brushing your fingertips with toothpaste can remove nicotine or ink strains.

A couple of days a month give your nails some time off polish so they can breathe. Buffing during this time will give them a natural shine and boost circulation.

Avoid filing your nails as much as you possibly can. If you file, do it in one direction only.

Wear gloves when washing dishes and doing other household chores. Keep exposure to harsh chemicals to a minimum.

Reference: Floyd, E. (2005). 1001 little health miracles.