By Jennifer Adler, M.S., C.N.

Turning to your spice rack may do more than improve your food's flavor. It's also great for your health.

Chili addicts -- and you know who you are -- have most likely met their match with India's notorious "ghost chili."

4:30 minutes (1.04 MB)
In this week's podcast Dr. Weil touts the little known health benefits of turmeric. Find out how to prepare and use this powerful yellow spice to attain optimum health.

4:00 minutes (940.66 KB)
Did you know that your pantry may house healing herbs? Dr. Andrew Weil talks about the astounding health benefits of common spices, focusing primarily on tumeric, a powerful herb being studied worldwide for its healing properties.

Need to spice up your life, or at least, your food? Chef Michel Nischan demonstrates how herbs and spices work to amp up any meal. Not only does he prove how they put a twist on an average dish, but how they are also a healthful addition to our diet. Find out how you can create your own herb garden, then visit a lavender farm where you’ll learn how to make a fragrant lavender lemonade, take a trip to India to see how they use exotic spices in their distinct cuisine and then go with Michel back to the kitchen for a delicious chicken rub-down.

The benefits of fall spices extend past the Thanksgiving table. The season's flavors — including cinnamon, ginger, annatto, turmeric, paprika, saffron and chili powder — may also prevent and heal a handful of ailments.

Ayurvedic medicine uses these spices to create heat from the inside out. Stimulating the agni, or inner fire, helps maintain healthy digestion and overall health.