The small white half-moons at the base of your nails—called lunulae—may offer clues about your health. “They aren’t just there for show,” and changes in their size, shape, or color can hint at underlying issues.

Each finger may correspond to a specific organ. A **missing lunula on the middle finger** could signal **circulatory or brain issues**, while one on the **index finger** might point to **intestinal trouble**. A **visible lunula on the pinky** may warn of **high blood pressure or kidney issues**. The **thumb’s lunula**, usually the largest, reflects **lung and spleen health**, and shouldn’t exceed a quarter of the nail.

**Large lunulae** (covering over a third of the nail) might be normal in athletes but can suggest **heart rhythm or blood pressure problems** in inactive people. **Tiny or absent lunulae** may indicate **low energy, poor circulation, or vitamin deficiencies**—“your body may just be crying out for fuel.”

If lunulae disappear in adults, this may signal **thyroid issues or B12 deficiency**. As for **color**, white is healthy, but gray, purple, red, or black may suggest anything from **fatigue to heavy metal poisoning**.

Your nails might be silently revealing what’s going on inside your body.