Often we see a recipe call for herbs and spices but are these words really interchangeable? If we define each of these with the following definitions there are subtle differences that should be noted.
Herbs – the leaves of herbaceous (non-woody) plants
Spices – Roots, flowers, fruits, seeds or bark.
There are a few examples where technically speaking a spice and an herb can come from the same plant. Dill is one example where the seeds would be considered a spice while the plant is a herb. Cilantro would be another example where the green leaves are a herb while the seeds are a spice (i.e. coriander seeds).
Another important consideration is that the phytochemicals found in roots and leaves will differ. Turmeric, the spice common in Indian dishes such as curry, use the rhizome plant which is the richest in the antioxidant curcumin.
Examples of herbs
- Thyme
- Sage
- Oregano
- Parsley
- Marjoram
- Basil
- Chives
- Rosemary
- Mint
Examples of spices
- Cinnamon
- Ginger
- Cloves
- Saffron
- Nutmeg
- Vanilla
- Cumin
His research on plant medicine has led to more than 45 publications and abstracts.This research has been presented at international meetings in the USA, France, Turkey, Peru, Israel, Austria, and Italy.
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