Name and address withheld

A. A happy and normal sex life depends on our mental and physical wellbeing, and certainly isn’t helped by performance fears.

Alcohol kills sexual performance, hence the expression “brewer’s droop”; and cigarettes dull desire, so avoid these. Fish protein is beneficial for healthy sex organs because it is high in zinc, of which even a minor deficiency can cause sexual dysfunction. Traditionally considered an aphrodisiac, oysters are rich in zinc; other good sources include herring, lean meat, pumpkin and sesame seeds. Muira puama, or “potency wood” (£15.99 for 120 caps, from Rio Trading; 01273 570987), is one of the few Amazonian remedies listed in the British Herbal Pharmacopeia. It can help with temporary erectile dysfunction and increase libido.

According to Chinese medicine, fear is the emotion associated with the kidneys. Our sexual energy comes from them, too, so any sexual dysfunction, including impotence, can be traced back to here. Reduce your stress levels with activities such as yoga and deep breathing, and try acupuncture, which can boost kidney qi, or energy. Contact the British Acupuncture Council on 020 8735 0400.

Q. I know that ginseng is a widely recognised energy tonic, but I am confused by the different types available. Can you give me some more information, including optimum dosage and which variety to choose?

Elizabeth Smith, Dublin

A. The different types of ginseng provide a broad spectrum of benefits: they can enhance the immune system, improve stamina and heighten energy levels. Panax (also referred to as Asian, Korean, Chinese or red) ginseng is the strongest, and therefore generally more suitable for men. Solgar’s standardised Korean ginseng costs £20.05 for 60 caps (01442 890355). Start by taking one capsule in the morning every day for two weeks, then have a two-week break.

Siberian and American ginseng are both milder, and therefore more suitable for women and older people. The usual daily dose for standardised Siberian ginseng is 150mg-450mg, taken in divided doses, preferably no later than 3pm. Solgar’s 150mg standardised Siberian ginseng costs £12.95 for 60 caps. The dosage for American ginseng is a 100mg standardised extract, twice daily. Solgar’s 100mg standardised American ginseng costs £18.55 for 60 caps.

Ginseng should not be taken by anyone with high blood pressure, manic-depressive disorders, palpitations, headaches or asthma, or by anyone taking blood-thinning medication or steroids. It is not advised during pregnancy and should not be mixed with caffeine.

Q. I am 55 years old and in good health. My GP thinks I may have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), as I suffer from bloating, constipation, discomfort and an occasional upset tummy. Can you offer any dietary advice? I have read that aloe vera is good.

Mavis Healy, Suffolk

A. Has your doctor ruled out coeliac disease, which presents similar symptoms? A simple blood test can help identify this condition; if it proved positive, you would need to adopt a gluten-free diet.

IBS can arise as a consequence of poor digestion and diet, which lead to fluctuations in bowel habits. Digestive problems are often caused by insufficient chewing, so make sure you chew each mouthful 50 times. Focus on foods that provide gentle, insoluble fibre, such as rice, millet, quinoa and lightly cooked vegetables and fruits such as unpeeled apples, which will ensure your bowels move regularly. Natural live yoghurt is rich in the beneficial bacteria Lactobacillus acidophilus, while asparagus and bananas contain fructo-oligosaccharides, prebiotics that enhance the activity of good bacteria.

Aloe vera certainly helps many people with IBS, but it is not ideal for everyone and, taken in excess, can cause diarrhoea. Choose Aloe barbadensis ‘Miller’, and a whole-leaf brand such as Golden Aloe (£20.43 for 1 litre, plus £2.95 p&p, from Nutrigold; 0845 603 5675). Take as directed.

Long-term stress is also a contributory factor. Try some gentle exercise, such as walking, yoga and t’ai chi, to relax your body, and meditation to calm your mind.

Jennifer Harper-Deacon is a registered naturopathic physician. For more information, visit www.jenniferharper-deacon.com

Find an archive of articles by Jennifer Harper-Deacon at http://www.timesonline.co.uk/section/0,,27069,00.html

If you have any questions, write to What’s the Alternative? Style, The Sunday Times, 1 Pennington Street, London E98 1ST. We can only provide replies to published letters

Before following any recommendation in this column, it is important to consult your GP if you suffer from any health problem or special condition, or are in doubt as to its suitability

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