Natural health therapist Emma Mitchell answers your questions

I am a 68-year-old woman and last year my GP suggested that I had the symptoms of fibromyalgia and prescribed dothiepin to help me sleep. Is there a natural remedy?

The various symptoms of fibromyalgia (fatigue, bowel disorders, constant aching, tender muscles and frequent infections) are thought to stem from a sleep disorder. The inability to experience deep sleep and relaxation is caused by a malfunctioning hypothalamus, and has baffled doctors for years. However, in the US one programme reports an 85% cure rate with a combination of natural remedies, massage and visualisation, while nutritional deficiencies due to digestive problems can be alleviated with high-potency multivitamins and minerals ( for details). Treatment takes at least six months and should be followed only after consultation with your GP.

Recently, a number of lumps under my armpit have twice become enlarged, red and painful. Two different GPs have diagnosed that, following a respiratory tract infection, my sebaceous glands are blocked. Both prescribed antibiotics. Is there any alternative?

Antiperspirants tend to block glands under the arm, stopping sweat and toxins from escaping, so causing infections. An aloe vera or tea tree natural deodorant would eliminate these, while also killing the bacteria that cause unpleasant underarm smells. Keep your immune system strong by drinking 10 drops of grapefruit seed extract in water or juice once a day (three times a day if an infection develops). Douche your armpits with this powerful antibacterial and antibiotic extract diluted in some water before applying deodorant.

