My mother, who is 81, is coping well since the recent death of my father, but has developed a nagging cough. Her GP gave her cough mixture and antibiotics, but it refuses to go. Might there be some underlying cause?
My own mother, 78, lost my father in November and has also had a persistent cough. In Chinese medicine the lungs are most affected by grief. Australian bush flower remedies are wonderful if health is suffering due to emotions - take Sturt desert pea for grief and dynamis to boost energy levels and the immune system (Victoria Health, 0800 3898 195, victoriahealth.com). I gave my mother Hambly's Cold & Cough Mix (01892 783027, hamblys.net) and Bio-Strath Elixir, to restore vitality, energy and immunity in those who are tired or run-down (from Cedar Health, 0161-483 1235, cedarhealth.co.uk). Within a week her cough had gone and her energy had been restored.
The diabetic male on lisinopril in your October 15 2005 column made me realise that since taking this drug I have become uninterested in sex - I am a 64-year-old woman, and just thought that now was the knitting phase. It would be nice not to feel so sexually blank.
Loss of libido is often attributed to medication in both men and women, but it can also be caused by stress, ill health, fatigue and changes in hormone levels, particularly testosterone. Very few controlled studies have questioned women about the effects of medication on sexual function, but there have been anecdotal reports of reduced or lost libido when taking antihypertensive drugs such as lisinopril. Any drug that reduces serum testosterone may lead to a loss of sexual desire. The herb Tribulus terrestris has been shown to allow the body to manufacture testosterone naturally. Damiana, commonly known as the women's sexuality herb, is one of the most popular plant aphrodisiacs and has a testosterone-like effect. Both take time to work, but are safe and do not affect blood pressure or medication to control it. The Australian bush flower remedy combination Sexuality Essence could be taken on its own as an alternative, or to enhance the effect of the herbs. It renews passion and intimacy, and is safe and natural - take seven drops morning and night (all from Victoria Health, as before).
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.
