The lunula, also known as the "little moon," is the white, crescent-shaped area at the base of the fingernail or toenail. It is not actually a structure itself, but rather the visible part of the nail's root. The function of the lunula is primarily to protect the underlying matrix, which is responsible for nail growth. It acts as a barrier that prevents external damage to the growing nail. Additionally, the lunula can serve as an indicator of overall nail health. Any abnormalities, such as changes in color or shape, may suggest an underlying issue that should be addressed.
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