I have been diagnosed as having lichen planus in my mouth. I have white patches on my tongue and cheeks, which are very sensitive; toothpaste can be agony. I have been told that it is not infectious and lasts an average of four-and-a-half years. There is no treatment, apart from steroids. Can you help?

Lichen planus is an inflammatory skin disease that can also be found on the arms, legs or scalp. It is annoying and painful, but otherwise does not cause harm. Steroids will clear the symptoms, but they will probably return when the course is completed. Horopito and Manuka, both from plant sources, are powerful antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal agents, and will heal lichen planus while reducing the chance of it returning. Horopito comes in capsule form boosted with aniseed. Take one twice a day. Add two to three drops of Manuka Paint to water, gargle, then spit. To order Horopito (by Kolorex) and Manuka Paint (by Kiwi Herb), call Victoria Health on 0800 3898195.

I have been diagnosed with severe hypertension (I am a 27-year-old female). The thought of life-long treatment is daunting. My lifestyle (active, non-smoker, drink in moderation, low salt) and family history do not suggest a cause. I am reluctant to go on medication and was wondering if you could recommend anything.

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, in someone your age is often caused by stress. Whether or not you decide to take medication, meditation and relaxation techniques reduce stress by making you calm, confident and clear-thinking. An easy way to do this is by listening to a relaxation CD, such as Breathing In Breathing Out (to order, call Maureen Troward on 02380 458270). I also recommend weekly reflexology (but first check with your GP). This is a marvellous way to become more relaxed, while strengthening the cardiovascular function and regulating metabolism, both of which lower blood pressure. The pill could raise blood pressure, and supplements of calcium and magnesium, garlic capsules, B vitamins, vitamin E, omega-3 fish oils, co-enzyme Q-10 and at least 2,000mg vitamin C a day have been shown to lower blood pressure. Also, consult a nutritionist (British Association Of Nutritional Therapists, 0870 6061284, bant.org.uk).

I am 82 and for the past few years have had patches of what feel like warts on large areas of my back, a couple on my abdomen and one on my arm. I have been told they are 'nothing' and come with old age. Some years ago my GP scraped them off, but they came back. I have always had a good complexion and skin.

Because of your age and the length of time you have suffered from the virus or infection, it may take a while to respond to natural treatment. It can be difficult to apply topical applications on to your back, so take a daily bath in essential oils. NHR's Vitality, a blended bath oil (a combination of tea-tree, rosemary and eucalyptus organic essential oils), has a powerful antiviral and antibacterial action and boosts immunity. Put two to four caps into your bath and soak for at least 20 minutes, washing yourself with NHR tea-tree soap. Do this every day for four weeks, and again, if necessary, after two further weeks. To order NHR, call 0800 074 7744 (nhr.kz).

· Emma Mitchell is a natural health therapist. Her recommendations are to be followed in conjunction with advice from your own healthcare provider. Send your questions to Wellbeing, Guardian Weekend, 119 Farringdon Road, London EC1R 3ER. Email: ask.emma@theguardian.com.