While holidaying in the south of France, I was told by locals to replace my suntan lotion with a mixture of one part vinegar and two parts extra-virgin olive oil. This I have done with great success. Is it a safe way to tan?

This sounds something better left in the kitchen. You may get tanned, but it in no way provides protection from cancer-causing UVA and B rays. I think the safest way to get some colour without risking your health is to use Green People's Self Tan Lotion (£14.99 for 200ml; from greenpeople.co.uk or healthfood shops). This thoroughly researched organic product enables you to develop a healthy tan without sun exposure, using a natural tanning ingredient derived from sugar. It has aloe vera, rosehip oil and sandalwood, which nourish and heal skin while a tan develops. If you're a real sun lover, Green People's sun lotions (from £13.99 for 200ml) have protection factors of 8, 15 and 22, use edelweiss extract, titanium dioxide and cinnamic acid for natural protection, and are rich in organic antioxidants to protect against ageing.

Following two weeks in hospital four years ago, when I was treated for cellulitis in both legs and found to be allergic to most antibiotics, I have suffered from burning sensations and extreme discomfort. I am 83, and also suffer from IBS.

Cellulitis is a condition where there is an abnormally excessive inflammatory response in the skin to an infection; the inflammation of surrounding tissues is the major cause of pain and discomfort. There are many very positive reports from New Zealand of using manuka honey for cellulitis - but no specific clinical trials completed yet. More than 70 studies on treating wounds with honey have shown it is antibacterial, reduces inflammation, oedema and exudation, and is very soothing. The honey should be used externally, with a waterproof dressing over the top to stop it escaping. Comvita ManukaCare 18+ ointment is 100% high-potency sterilised honey (£11.40 for 60g, from Xynergy, 0845 658 5858; xynergy.co.uk). For someone of your age and with IBS, to enable you to fight the infection and enhance your peripheral circulation, take 200iu MicroCell Vitamin E twice a day, and Vit-C-Plex and Zinc Citrate once a day (all from BioCare), as well as echinacea.

· Emma Mitchell is a natural health therapist. Before following Emma's recommendations, you should consult your GP about any medical problems or special health conditions. Send your questions to Wellbeing, Guardian Weekend, 119 Farringdon Road, London EC1R 3ER. Email: ask.emma@theguardian.com.