My aunt has arthritis in her knee/ thigh bone. She is 64 and in acute pain. She can't stay seated for more than 10 minutes before having to walk or lie down. Also, she's been diagnosed as diabetic.

There is a strong link between arthritis and diabetes. When carbohydrates, sugar or stimulants are eaten, insulin is released. This normally transports the glucose to body cells for storage. In diabetics, insulin resistance or deficiency means that high levels of sugars remain in the blood, triggering inflammatory reactions.

It would help your aunt to reduce her intake of sugar and refined foods, and eat foods that release sugar slowly - ie, those high in fibre and wholefoods. Many studies have shown that evening primrose oil and fish oils, taken every day, reduce the symptoms of arthritis: 200-300mg GLA and 1,200mg EPA would be a good daily amount.

Vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin C and B5, will help. For something to massage direct into the knee, new research shows that Arnica Gel from Bioforce quickly relieves the symptoms of osteoarthritis (trial packs cost £1.50 from health stores).

I am 18 and have ITP, which means I don't have enough platelets in my blood. Do you know of anything that can increase my platelets naturally?

Vitamin B12 and copper should be taken for idiopathic thrombocytic purpura (ITP), as long as your doctor is in agreement. Solgar B12 1,000mg could be taken once a day under the tongue, which allows it to be absorbed straight into the blood stream. Nature's Own Zinc with Copper is recommended because it is important to have a balance of both these minerals if they are not to displace each other.

· 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.