M Voss, London

A It’s likely that you are suffering from seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Lower light levels in the winter months can lead to reduced production of the feelgood hormone serotonin and an increase in melatonin, which is thought to be responsible for the symptoms of depression associated with SAD. Eat foods rich in the amino acid tryptophan — a constituent of protein found in turkey, chicken, fish, tofu, cheese, beans, oats and eggs — as the body uses this to manufacture serotonin.

Light therapy is worth considering. It replaces the light we do not get in the winter months and can help regulate the production of hormones. The LitePod (£135, or £122 until February 28, from The Healthy House; 01453 752216) is a small but powerful unit that can be used for up to an hour per day — you simply sit beside it at home or at work. You are correct to say that St John’s wort may affect the efficacy of the contraceptive pill. Try Happy Caps (£14.95 for 100 veggie caps, from Herbs of Grace; 01638 712123), a gentle formula that contains the herbs borage, melissa and gotu kola, which help to raise the spirits. Take as directed on the label.

Q I have osteoarthritis in my left hip. On the advice of my rheumatologist, I began taking glucosamine. I later started taking devil’s claw for the inflammation, but after two months, I began to have stomach problems. My GP told me to stop taking it and prescribed omeprazole instead, but I now have reduced mobility and discomfort again. Could the devil’s claw have been the culprit, and what else may reduce the inflammation?

KA Dixon, Newcastle-upon-Tyne

A Devil’s claw is generally well tolerated. However, one of its traditional uses is as a digestive stimulant, which means it’s not recommended for anyone suffering from gastric or duodenal ulcers, heartburn, gastritis, excessive stomach acid or gallstones. If you have suffered from any of these conditions, this may explain your adverse experience.

As regards the inflammation, Celadrin — a patented mix of fatty acids known as CFAs, which have been shown to reduce inflammation — may help. It is recommended for use alongside glucosamine. A trial of Celadrin on 64 patients with chronic osteoarthritis (OA), published in the Journal of Rheumatology, concluded that, “compared to placebo, CFA provides an improvement in range of motion and overall function in patients with OA”. Participants in this study continued to take their medications without any side effects — although, if you are taking warfarin, you should consult your GP. Celadrin costs £19.95 for 60 softgel capsules (from Solgar; 01442 890355). And try Celadrin Forte cream (£17.95 for 50ml, from the Nutri Centre; 0800 587 2290), which can be massaged into painful areas.

Q I have been diagnosed with bronchiectasis and require a specific antibiotic when an infection and cough occurs. Is there a natural product I could take to help the problem?

P Love, Hove

A Bronchiectasis is a relatively rare condition in which the mechanism that sweeps debris out of the lungs has been impaired. The bronchial tubes become inflamed, and pockets form, providing an ideal breeding ground for infection. Sufferers are plagued by a persistent cough and bring up large amounts of phlegm. Infections must be treated promptly to avoid pneumonia developing, so keep in touch with your GP. A Vogel’s Ivy-Thyme Complex (£8 for 50ml, from Bioforce; 01294 277344) relaxes the bronchial tubes, preventing painful spasms, and helps to thin mucus in the lungs, making it easier to expectorate. It is suitable for long-term use. Take 15 drops 2-3 times daily in water.

It is also worth trying the excellent dairy-free food alternatives available in supermarkets, as these can help reduce the production of mucus. Eat plenty of antioxidant-rich fruit and vegetables to aid the removal of toxins and protect the lung lining, as well as garlic and onions, which, according to Chinese medicine, have an affinity with the lungs.

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

If you have any questions or tips, 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 recommendations in this column, it is important to consult your GP if you suffer from any health problems or special conditions, or are in doubt as to its suitability

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