In India, Ayurvedic tradition balances the spice ingredients in a dish to promote digestion and overall health.  Turmeric, mentioned above, is one spice that has balancing systemic effects as well as anti-tumor properties.  Chilies promote circulation and fight germs.   The same balancing concept can be found in many Asian cuisines, with ginger and camphoraceous spices (such as star anise) helping digestion, blood sugar, and circulation.  Licorice root is also used, and has hormonal balancing properties as well as demulcent (soothing)  actions on the digestive tract.  Cinnamon is also an extremely healthy spice!

Many stomach and GI tract issues are related to low serotonin levels, as we have written about before.  The brain manufactures serotonin using the amino acid tryptophan.  Turkey is an example of a food containing tryptophan, and the well known Thanksgiving Post-Meal Sleepies are an example of the relaxing effects tryptophan can produce.  Low serotonin is linked to mood disorders, PMS and menopausal symptoms, as well as headaches.   An additional challenge in low serotonin situations is its distribution in the system.  SSRI's, which are commonly prescribed anti-depressants, aid the movement of serotonin through the body by keeping it from sticking onto the same few areas (receptors) all the time.   

 Recent research using saffron has shown that it aids in metabolism of serotonin, and has positive effects on mood disorders, PMS, and digestion.  To me this suggests that you really can help yourself maintain proper serotonin levels by using spices and herbs in your recipes.   Enhancing your serotonin by supplementing your diet with tryptophan (after carefully reviewing any possible interactions with other medicines you may be taking!) and eating foods spiced with metabolism supporting ingredients can make a big difference in overall health and functioning.  What you eat is really perfectly positioned to distribute healthy substances throughout your body, given that the majority of serotonin receptors are in the gut.  Although this is simple and really pretty easy,  it  is not a new concept, after all.   Curries are just one example.  Saffron rice is another!   Spice mixtures such as Five Spice contain many healthful ingredients, as does chile powder.  If chilies aren't your thing, you don't have to use them.  A simple marinade for chicken of yogurt, garlic and ginger can produce a digestion enhancing meal that everyone will like (really).

Any aspect of your life can be improved by using herbs; cooking can be medicinal as well as delicious. While it is certainly not a "magic bullet", expanding your spice repertoire can definitely help you feel better.   I have lots of recipes!