My six-year-old son has had so many infections through his life, and seems to pick up everything that's going around at school. He has terrible eczema - the itching is so bad, he can't sleep through the night. From one thing and another, we haven't had a good night's sleep since he was born. He's constantly on and off antibiotics, and to top it all he's now got hay fever. Please help.

Eczema is often caused by an inability efficiently to digest proteins, or by toxins in the bloodstream that build up because the liver is under-functioning. Severe eczema does affect sleep because of the itching, and children often do go on to show other allergic symptoms, such as hay fever.

Your son's frequent infections are a sign that his immune system is not effective. To help him, you need first to establish the underlying cause of the problems and then to treat him with natural methods for his skin, digestive and immune system, the health of which are all interrelated. The Naturopathic Centre For Children in Hursley, near Winchester (01962 775111, naturopathiccentre.co.uk) provides individual assessments through non-invasive diagnostic testing (such as iridology, kinesiology, physical examination and saliva, urine or stool tests). This assessment identifies fully any areas in need of support, and treatments are available at the centre, including remedies for acute infections - naturopathic treatment combines many things, including therapeutic nutrition, homeopathy, bodywork, herbs and acupuncture.

It is always best to be individually assessed, but if that is not possible, ask the centre to send you an information pack and food tinctures designed to support your son's immune system and healing process.

The time has come for me to turn my attentions to new projects. I have loved reading your letters, and it has delighted me to hear of so many readers embracing ways to improve their health naturally. Nurture yourself, your friends and your family, and I wish you love, light and lots of laughter - the best medicine.

· Emma Mitchell is a natural health therapist. Before following her recommendations, you should consult your GP about any medical problems or special health conditions. Next week, Dr Max Pittler will answer your questions. Write to Wellbeing, Guardian Weekend, 119 Farringdon Road, London EC1R 3ER. Email: ask.emma@theguardian.com.