M Bird, Doncaster

A. According to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), health is achieved when one follows the laws of nature and adapts to the changes of the seasons. In the West, we have forgotten this simple advice, as we can now buy virtually any food we want at any time of year. As a result, we have become more disconnected to the healing foods that are provided through the different seasons. In TCM, it is important when the temperature plummets, for example, to eat plenty of root vegetables, since plants that take longer to grow are considered to be more “warming”.

Encourage your daughter to use cooking methods such as roasting and grilling, and to eat hearty casseroles. She should ditch the salads until the external temperatures rise and her internal body temperature increases. Some of the key foods and spices favoured in TCM to warm the body are ginger, leek, sweet potato, turnip, fennel seeds, black pepper, nutmeg, garlic, cinnamon, onion and coriander. Pulses are crucial in any vegetarian diet, but adzuki, black and kidney beans are particularly important in winter.

If these dietary changes do not help, ask your GP if your daughter can have her thyroid hormones checked, as coldness can also signal a sluggish thyroid.

Q. I suffer from osteoarthritis in my knees. I read recently about the benefits of glucosamine and chondroitin. However, it said that glucosamine should not be taken if you are allergic to shellfish, which I am. What would you advise?

David Jones, Farnborough

A. Glucosamine is produced naturally in the body and is thought to stimulate production of key components of cartilage. As we age, we manufacture less, thereby reducing the ability of the cartilage to act as a shock absorber. This leads to wear and tear of the joint.

The benefits of supplementary glucosamine have been well documented, and many people report that this compound has helped them to manage painful and potentially debilitating joint conditions.

Several recent studies have explored the effectiveness of combining glucosamine and chondroitin, and one, the glucosamine and chondroitin arthritis intervention trial (GAIT), in America, concluded late last year that it had been useful for patients with moderate to severe pain from osteoarthritis in the knee.

Most glucosamine supplements are sourced from shellfish, so you should avoid taking them, as you are allergic. However, Solgar has a glucosamine, chondroitin and methylsulphonylmethane (MSM) combination that uses glucosamine from a vegetable source (£36.45 for 60 tablets; 01442 890355). Two tablets provide 1,500mg glucosamine, 1,200mg chondroitin and 700mg of MSM, a nutrient that also benefits joint health.

Q. Four years ago, I started experiencing pain during sexual intercourse. I went to see a specialist, who diagnosed lichen planus and told me that I might have it for ever. Is there anything natural that could help?

Mrs MDW, Staffordshire

A. Lichen planus is an autoimmune skin condition that affects various areas of the body, including the vulva and vagina, causing inflammation, soreness and redness. It can often result in painful intercourse, as scar tissue can develop, narrowing the entrance to the vagina.

You don’t mention how recently you visited your GP — four years is a long time to leave this condition untreated. I would certainly advise you to be monitored medically and have an updated review, as your condition is chronic.

As you have requested a natural alternative, I suggest you ask your GP for a referral to one of the five homeopathic NHS hospitals in the country (in London, Tunbridge Wells, Liverpool, Glasgow and Bristol), where you will be seen by a medical doctor who is also qualified in homeopathy. The results of a six-year observational study at Bristol Homeopathic Hospital showed that more than 70% of patients with chronic diseases reported positive health changes after homoeopathic treatment.

There are also a number of homeopathic NHS clinics nationwide that take referrals from GPs and specialists in their area. For an information pack, contact the Faculty of Homeopathy (0870 444 3955).

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