When travelling in hot countries my ankles and feet often swell. My GP says it's chronic venous insufficiency, but doesn't have any suggestions. On long flights I wear support socks, take aspirin and have tried herbal remedies such as horse chestnut, but none of these strategies helps. I'm in my late 50s, and the problem has become apparent in the past four or five years.

The heat, gravity and poor valve function are causing blood and fluids to be retained in your feet and ankles, rather than circulating around the body. While aspirin may be effective, it would need to be in a very high dosage to alleviate the swelling. Instead, try Bio-Pycnogenol by Pharma Nord (01670 519989). Take two tablets every day while travelling, starting seven days before you leave home, or one a day for long-term use. This powerful antioxidant thins the blood as much as high-dose aspirin, without the side-effects. It improves bloodflow and reduces puffiness and swelling. The problem is usually caused by the valves in the veins losing elasticity, leading to improper opening and closure, which results in swelling. Bioflavonoids, commonly known as vitamin P, help to repair all skin tissues, including valves and capillary networks. Try one tablet daily of Citrus Bioflavonoids by HealthAids (020-8426 3400).

I have an irritating biological alarm clock that always wakes me up at 6.30-7am. Lately, I've been waking at 5am and can't get back to sleep. I'm in my mid-20s, a non-smoker, not overly stressed, cycle 30 minutes to work most days, eat well and rarely drink alcohol. How can I reset this unwanted alarm clock?

Bush iris, the Australian bush flower remedy, gently and safely regulates the pineal glands and reprogrammes the body clock. It is used for jet lag and by shift workers to help balance their inner timing. Two other bush flower remedies may also help: boronia stills the racing mind while crowea brings calm to worriers, helping to ground them (from Flowersense, 020-8567 9412). The herb passiflora also calms the mind and relaxes the body - try it in Femmeherb Sweet Dreams, by Potter's, from chemists and health food shops. Otherwise, try aromatherapy massage or reflexology.

· 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.