Difference Between Spices and Herbs

Herbs and spices were traditionally used by wealthy and were one of the aspects of trading going back to medieval times and even after all this history, the difference between them is not always clear cut, or well known about. The origin of the plant species is important for making the difference between herbs and spices. Spices tend more to come from plants growing in tropical countries; herbs can grow in almost every climate.

Let's take a look at the subtle differences.

HERBS

Herbs are taken from the leaf of a plant. These are sometimes dried for preservation purposes although in an environment that produces those in abundance are used fresh from the plant. The use of herbs is for subtle taste additions to food and these are added during the cooking process to release the taste that we are all familiar with. Herbs are generally produced from plants which do not have a bark or hard stem and one of the reasons why the definition between the two, herbs and spices, is confused is that many Americans refer to the dried versions of herbs as spices. This new manner of labling items has made the distinction difficult to define, though the above definition will help decide which is which.

Herbs are more likely to be used in alternative medicine than spices, since they are milder and capable of being used in teas and infusions which are used in Homeopathy and also in Phytotherapy, where the basis of the plant's healing powers are used in herb form to enhance the health naturally.

SPICES

These are produced from the seeds and other parts of the plant, and usually exclude the leaves. The difference here is that the composition of spices is such that powder form is obtained and instead of being added on its own to food, spices tend to be used for the very basis of cooking, being an integral part of marrinades and sauces.
Spices can be defined by presentation, and are usually powder, and smaller quantities of the spice are needed than would be the case with herbs.

Combining herbs and spices is for people who don't live in tropical countries the best combination for getting some new tastes to your dishes and you will be surprised about the delicious taste of your food. Basil, garlic, mint, parsley, oregano, thyme, Rosemary and chives are popular herbs which are used in vegetable and meat dishes. Ginger; chilly peppers and paprika are popular spices in tropical countries and contain important health effects concerning the growth of certain cancers. However, spices tend to be used more in tropical countries for cooking; more and more people experience with these spices in cooking and are amazed about the delicious taste of their meals.

Enjoy your meal with the right mix of herbs and spices!