MORE and more people are choosing alternatives to conventional medicines to treat common conditions and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Now the Sunday Mercury has teamed up with Lanes - the herbal remedies expert - to offer you advice on how you can Help Your Way to Health.
Janet Lane, of Gloucester-based Lanes, answers your questions about alternative health and the world of herbal remedies.
QI FIND I am increasingly suffering with aches and pains caused by rheumatism. I have tried a number of treatments to ease the condition, but I have never considered herbal remedies.
Are there any herbal treatments I can try to help ease the pain?
Mrs L. Harrington, Pershore
AJANET says: "Indeed there are! Herbal treatments have long been used to relieve exactly this kind of pain. Celery is probably the best known treatment, but as with many herbal treatments, it is often a combination of different herbs that offer the maximum benefit.
"Personally, I would recommend a product such as Vegetex, which combines celery with buck bean and black cohosh. These tablets can be taken regularly and work by adjusting the natural acid balance in the body."
QEVERY month just before my period I find I put on weight and feel terribly bloated and uncomfortable. My sister tells me I am suffering from water retention.
Is she right, and if so, can you help?
Ms G. Marsh, Craven Arms, Shropshire.
AJANET says: "The problem you are suffering with is water retention and is surprisingly common among many women.
"The good news is that there are a number of herbs that can be helpful in relieving the condition. These herbs are known as diuretics and among the best known are uva-ursi and clivers.
These can be used alone or in combination and are available in tablet form.
If you would like to ask a question, please write to: Ask Janet, Information Service (IS), GR Lane Health Products Ltd, Freepost, Sisson Road, Gloucester, GL1 3QB. The senders of all published letters will receive a complimentary Olbas Bath, the foam bath with natural vapours of eucalyptus, peppermint and
other plant oils.