Carminatives by Joseph J Collins, RN, ND
It is not uncommon for people who are suddenly consuming more legumes, vegetables and other foods rich in phytoestrogens to have increased gas and bloating due to the gas-producing nature of these foods. Certain herbal supplements can also temporarily cause more gas while the body is adjusting to taking them.
However, you can look to your spice rack for the best remedies for these gastrointestinal problems. Many spices and culinary herbs are carminatives. Carminative herbs help the digestive system work properly. They are soothing, help ease gripping discomfort, and help prevent formation of gas in the gastrointestinal tract, or help remove gas from the digestive tract. It is no surprise that many of these spices and herbs are traditionally used when preparing gas-producing foods. Carminatives herbs are usually quite fragrant and rich in aromatic oils. These herbs may be used in various recipes, marinades, or even at a tea.
Another benefit of the herbs listed here is that they all have documented anti-inflammatory properties. So, in addition to improving digestion, decreasing bloating, and decreasing gas, these culinary herbs also have the ability to decrease inflammation in a wide variety of conditions.

Culinary Carminatives
Anise (also phytoestrogen)
Arugula
Basil
Black Pepper
Caraway
Cardamon
Chamomile
Celery & Celery Seed
Cilantro
Cinnamon
Cloves
Coriander
Cumin
Dill & Dill Seed
Fennel (also phytoestrogen)
Garlic
Ginger
Hops (also phytoestrogen)
Horseradish
Lavender
Nutmeg
Oregano (also phytoestrogen) 
Parsley (also phytoestrogen)
Peppermint
Rosemary (also a thyroid herb)
Sage (also phytoestrogen & a thyroid herb)
Spearmint
Tea (Black & Green)
Thyme (also phytoestrogen)
Turmeric

 Additional Benefits of Specific Carminatives
Anise, fennel, hops, oregano, parsley, sage and thyme are also a good sources of natural phytoestrogens. 

To learn more about phytoestrogens, see the Foods Rich in Phytoestrogens handout.
In fact, Hops and Sage are so good for healthy estrogen function that they are included in EstroMend™.
Rosemary & Sage improve thyroid function by enhancing the function of thyroid receptors on cells throughout your body which allows the thyroid hormone to get inside the cells. They are used with exotic therapeutic herbs in ThyroMend™.

Note: Chili & Cayenne are also carminative but may not be tolerated in people who need to avoid solanine. Solanine is a naturally occurring substance in tomatoes, potatoes, eggplants and peppers. It can increase joint, muscle, tendon and ligament pain in susceptible individuals. It can also cause gastrointestinal irritation and migraines in some people.

Therapeutic Herbs with carminative actions include angelica, catnip, juniper berry, licorice, myrrh, pennyroyal, pleurisy root, red clover, sarsaparilla, sassafras, valerian & verbena. These herbs should only be used if directed and monitored by an experienced healthcare professional.

Originally from: Discover Your Menopause Type (page 217), by Dr Joseph Collins, RN, ND

Study each of the Diets on Your Hormones to understand how foods affect your hormones.