I am 56 and have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis. I am taking ibuprofen for pain relief and a glucosamine supplement. My friend, who suffers from arthritis, recently took part in a trial for a new cream called Celafen, containing Celadrin. What do you think of it?

In an attempt to find arthritis medicine that doesn't cause long-term side-effects, drugs firms are looking to natural compounds such as Celadrin. This is the proprietary name for a group of long chain fatty acids with lubricating properties similar to fish oil, but reportedly stronger. Trials have shown significant benefit for sufferers of knee osteoarthritis. There is controversy whether such a substance can penetrate fully the skin's dermal layers to perform its lubricating functions. While the manufacturers include menthol in its preparation, to increase circulation and so take this fatty acid to deeper layers, menthol is usually very cooling, so might 'push' the blood vessels even deeper. It may be more beneficial to take Celadrin orally in conjunction with your glucosamine: take two capsules daily. Celadrin with glucosamine, by Lifetime Vitamins, from Victoria Health (0800 389 8195; victoriahealth.com).

I'm a 57-year-old fit and active male. However, for three months I have experienced pain in my outer calf muscles that lasts all day. I take saw palmetto, vitamin C and cod liver oil, and eat plenty of fruit and veg.

Check with your GP whether you're at risk of vascular problems. Otherwise, the pain might be due to wear and tear of joint tissues, including the tendons, perhaps due to overexercise? Try bromelain - this enzyme, which is derived from the stems of the pineapple plant, has a powerful natural anti-inflammatory effect and also helps heal tissue injuries quickly - take one tablet twice a day half an hour before meals. Also, make sure the vitamin C you're taking is a non-acidic version because acids can cause this type of pain, too. Topically, use Ancient Oil, which contains herbs that have natural circulatory and anti-inflammatory properties - simply put a few drops into your palms and massage into your calves. Bromelain, by Lifetime Vitamins, and Ancient Oil, both 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.