Understanding the Difference Between Spices and Herbs

Introduction

The distinction between spices and herbs is a fascinating topic, primarily because the definitions can shift depending on who is describing them—whether it is an herbologist or a spice expert. Although they may seem similar, the two have unique characteristics based on their origins and uses.

Herbology Perspective

In the field of herbology, there is a clear difference between what is considered a tea and what qualifies as an herbal tea. Generally, most people view anything that grows in a garden as an herb. However, herbology specifies that anything derived from a root, bark, bud, flower, or seed is classified as herbal (tea), while only leaves are considered regular tea.

Additionally, another definition describes herbs as “various often aromatic plants used especially in medicine or as seasoning.” This highlights their medicinal and culinary applications.

Spice Perspective

From the standpoint of spices, Wikipedia defines a spice as a dried seed, fruit, root, bark, or vegetative substance used in small quantities as a food additive for flavor, color, or preservation. In culinary practice, spices are distinguished from herbs, which are typically the leafy, green parts of plants used for flavoring.

Interestingly, many people use cut leaf basil and ground sage as spices, even though they come from leaves. The book ‘Magical Spices’ further states that herbs are leaves or stems of plants, while spices are roots, seeds, bark, flowers, or buds.

Conclusion

In summary, the definitions of herbs and spices vary, but both perspectives agree that they share similarities. For the purposes of this Blog , leafy parts of plants will be referred to as herbs, while seeds, bark, buds, flowers, and roots will be considered spices, reflecting a more traditional viewpoint. This approach will help in gaining a comprehensive understanding of both herbs and spices.