Look at your fingernails, did you notice a white half-moon shape that starts at your nail beds? In fact, it is a very important part of the nail. That little area is called the “lunula,” Latin for “little moon,” and it’s more than just a built-in design element — it actually says a lot about your health.

In traditional Chinese medicine, the lunula is viewed as a barometer of one’s health. The condition of the lunula really is an indication of your health. When your health declines, it is manifested in changes to the lunula, or the disappearance of it altogether. And when your health is restored, your lunula returns to its original condition.

What Does It Say About Your Health?

According to medical experts, having 8 to 10 milky white lunulas on both hands means that everything is alright with your health. The whiter the lunula, the stronger your health.

Normal Lunulae

On the other hand, if you have less lunulae, it could mean lower energy, overall health, and immunity. If you only have lunulae on your thumbs, it might indicate a lack of physical energy and the possibility of getting sick easily.

Missing Lunulae

Studies have shown that missing fingernail moons are associated with various systemic disorders. These disorders include issues with your thyroid or pituitary gland, iron deficiency, chronic renal failure, depression, and possible B-12 deficiency. If you notice missing lunulae, it’s important to have your iodine and Vitamin B-12 levels checked, as well as your thyroid function and blood pressure.

To sum up, the lunula is considered a sign of how healthy you are. Therefore, any changes should be taken seriously and checked by a healthcare professional.