Q I have suffered with catarrh for many years and my face always looks puffy. I have tried various over-the-counter remedies, but nothing seems to work. Is there a more natural alternative that could help with this problem?

A It is important that you get to the underlying cause of this problem rather than just rely on alternative treatments. A puffy face, puffy bags under the eyes and catarrh can sometimes indicate a food intolerance, the most common culprit being dairy produce.

This is not always the case, however, and you would need to check this by having a food intolerance test.

The symptoms you describe could also indicate that your lymphatic system has become a little congested. The lymphatic system is like a network of pipes running throughout the body alongside the arteries and veins. Its job is to remove foreign bodies, reduce excess fluid, help fight infection and repair any damage in the body.

If the lymph nodes in the head and neck become congested it can hinder the drainage of tissue fluid, which in turn can result in puffiness, sinus problems and catarrh.

The complementary treatment I would suggest you try is manual lymphatic drainage massage (MLD), which uses gentle massage techniques.

Its therapeutic effects are said to help clear congested skin, reduce puffiness around the eyes and relieve congestion around the sinus area.

Massaging around the face, nose and cheek area should help to drain away excess mucus. The MLD masseur I recommend is Annabel Mooney. She holds clinics in York and Driffield and can be contacted on 01377 267617

Q I have always had an interest in essential oils, but I'm overwhelmed and slightly confused by the number of oils you can buy in the shops. They all smell so nice but I can't afford to buy them all! Could you recommend some?

A Certainly. You are a woman after my own heart.I love essential oils and use them for everything, from washing down my work surfaces to using them as air fresheners.

They really are so versatile and can be used for much more than just massage. You can re-scent your old pot pourri by putting a few drops of your chosen oil on to a tissue or cotton wool ball, placing the tissue in a plastic bag with the pot pourri, tie tightly and leave in a warm place for a few days. When you open the bag the pot pourri will be infused with the aroma of your chosen oil.

Another interesting idea is to put a few drops of your chosen essential oil into a fountain pen (not cartridge). Sandalwood has a deep masculine aroma and bergamot is very uplifting and light. Simply put a few drops of essential oil into an ink bottle, suck up the ink with the pen, and you will have a naturally-scented letter.

To help contain the spread of unwanted germs so prevalent during the winter, put a few drops of eucalyptus into your burner, this oil will also help to mask cooking smells.

Lastly, to help get rid of the energy that unwanted guests have left behind, try burning rosemary or juniper, both cleansing oils that will help to lighten the atmosphere. These are quite powerful oils and should only be used in a low dilution; no more than two to three drops in your burner.

For further information on Essential oils, call me at The Natural Healthcare Clinic 01347 848107 and I will be pleased to send you a free leaflet explaining all about essential oils and how to use them.