I have weak eyelashes, so like to use mascara. But if it gets into my eyes, I have an allergic reaction (tears, itching). Is there an alternative?

Even hypoallergenic brands can cause itching and watering, and once the eyes, or the delicate skin around them, become sensitised, they can react to almost any of the component ingredients. You may need to avoid eye make-up for a month and then, by trial and error, apply brands that do not use perfume, chemical dye and chemical preservative - the top three sensitisers. Try Jane Iredale (janeiredale.com), Lavera (01557 870203, lavera.co.uk) or BWC from Honesty Cosmetics (01629 814888, honestycosmetics.co.uk).

I'm 61 and have been diabetic for 25 years. A year ago my GP prescribed Lisinopril and Simvastin, and I am now having trouble maintaining an erection. My GP said this is a side-effect of the blood pressure tablets, and recommended Viagra. Will anything else help?

Some degree of erectile dysfunction affects one in three men over 60. Diabetes, leading to impaired circulation, is the most frequent cause, while high blood pressure and medications for it are also factors. Every continent has its own traditional herbal alternative. The most widely researched, ginkgo biloba, has been used in Chinese medicine for 5,000 years - it causes blood vessels to relax, resulting in a greater blood supply to the penis. Panax ginseng (Chinese or Korean ginseng) can also be used. Muira puama, or 'potency wood', is the traditional Brazilian aphrodisiac. Yohimbe is an evergreen tree native to central Africa that has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for erectile dysfunction. In the Indian subcontinent, ashwaganda (Indian ginseng) has been used for more than 2,500 years, while in Australasia morinda is the natural alternative. All need to be taken for four to six weeks before the effects begin to be enjoyed; most work best in tincture form, and even better in combination with each other. All should be taken with caution, especially if you're on other medication: yohimbe shouldn't be used with Viagra, while ginkgo may not be recommended with your drugs regime. Find an experienced herbalist (National Institute of Medical Herbalists, 01392 426022) and consult your GP.

· 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.