I was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 1994. I take levodopa and Mirapexin, and have managed to retain most of my competencies. But I have bad days, when it is very difficult to do ordinary tasks. It is not easy to motivate myself, because movement is difficult and has to be planned almost consciously. My general health is good, although colds and flu knock me back badly. I am concerned that levodopa's usefulness is coming to an end, and do not know if Mirapexin can be taken long-term. Do you have any advice on my drug regime? Can I substitute anything? And can you suggest anything to keep my general health good?

Consult your specialist about your regime, and also ask about vitamin B6, which is thought to be very helpful to Parkinson's sufferers, because it elevates brain dopamine levels. It is safer than levodopa, but must be used instead of it, not at the same time. The antioxidant vitamins, especially C and E, can prevent further brain deterioration. NADH, an antioxidant found in all living cells, encourages energy production, particularly in the brain and nervous system. As we age, declining NADH levels can be responsible for both depression and Parkinson's. The Birkmayer Institute For Parkinson's Therapy, in Vienna, trialled 885 patients, 80% of whom improved after taking NADH supplements (two 5mg tablets daily on an empty stomach). Essential oils work on the central nervous system, while massage maintains mobility and prevents muscle stiffening. In the morning or early afternoon, take an invigorating, uplifting and balancing warm bath with NHR's quartz oil, containing organic rosemary, geranium and thyme essential oils. Use it also to massage stiff muscles. After a month of daily use, change to lemon, basil and marjoram (NHR, 0845 310 8066).

A year ago, I developed a red bumpy rash on my face. It was sensitive to touch, contained little blisters and was mostly on one cheek. I saw three GPs. One thought it was eczema and gave me hydrocortisone cream, to no effect. Another said it wasn't eczema, but didn't know what it was. A third couldn't diagnose but gave me antihistamine cream, which also did little, and began talking about laser treatment, which concerned me. A private specialist told me it was rosacea and that laser treatment was inappropriate. He prescribed two months of antibiotics, followed by some cream. The bumpiness and sensitivity have gone, but the redness remains, so, visually, there is little change. I find it embarrassing, particularly as I'm young, reasonably attractive and dating.

Rosacea responds very well with time to natural, holistic treatment - steroids and antibiotics may clear symptoms temporarily, but do not get to the root of the problem. Rosacea is linked to digestive problems and is made worse by stress. Environmental factors, such as sun, wind and temperature changes, as well as spicy and hot foods, red wine and caffeine, aggravate symptoms. Helen Sher runs a renowned clinic (020-7499 4022; sher.co.uk), where she prescribes individual programmes: nutritional formulas, herbs for digestion, soothing creams with vitamin E, lavender and calendula, and splashing the face with softened water.

· Emma Mitchell is a natural health therapist. Her recommendations are to be followed in conjunction with advice from your own healthcare provider. Send your questions to Wellbeing, Guardian Weekend, 119 Farringdon Road, London EC1R 3ER. Email: ask.emma@theguardian.com