I'm on a waiting list to have a partial hysterectomy, and it's likely it will happen before spring. I'm really nervous about taking an anaesthetic as I've never had one before, plus I'm also worried about how I'll cope afterwards. I'm a busy person naturally and not good at 'resting'. How can I best prepare for this op, and is there anything I can do to speed recovery?

Firstly I'm afraid that surgery is one of those things you really have to make yourself rest after - doing too much too soon will only prolong recovery time. But there are certain measures you can take to ensure that your body will recover as quickly as possible.

Starting from now, ensure that your diet is rich in colourful fruits and vegetables, organic if possible. This will provide you with antioxidants and other nutrients vital for the healing process. Taking the superfood supplement Spirulina, available from Xynergy 08456 585858, will provide iron and antioxidants in a form that the body easily recognises, helping to nourish and repair post-surgery, and providing a much needed energy lift.

It is advisable to stop taking both vitamin E and EFAs around two weeks beforehand as these thin the blood and may cause excess loss during surgery. However, supplementing Vitamin C, Zinc and other antioxidants before and afterwards will speed the healing process and help the liver to break down and deal with the anaesthetic and other pain relieving drugs. I would also recommend a strong probiotic as surgery knocks out the gut flora balance, which impairs immunity and may delay healing. Try Biocare's Vitamin C Powder, up to 2g daily, One-a-Day complex and Bioacidophilus Forte.

You could also try the following homeopathic remedies in 30c potency: to calm nerves try Gelsemium, or Aconite if you feel very frightened. To alleviate tenderness afterwards, rotate Arnica, Calendula and Hypericum every four hours for a few days. NB avoid taking Arnica pre-surgery as this may increase bleeding. If you have trouble coming after the anaesthetic, try Gelsemium if you are very sleepy, or Phosphorous if you feel wide awake and disorientated. Obsidian may also help to clear after-effects of anaesthetic. Remedies are available from Helios Pharmacy 01892 537254.

Stella New RSHom is a registered homeopath and dietary therapist based in West Sussex. Prior to her training she spent many years as an expedition leader, taking groups into some of the most challenging parts of the world, where she was inspired by the use of natural remedies for treating all manner of ailments. Email stella@stellanew.co.uk