Earth's Edible Treasures

Spices have shaped history, influenced today’s global trade, and even sparked wars! Curious about how spices came to be? It is the hunt for spices that has led Europeans to explore oceans and lands. Today’s global trade routes were established by the search for spices. Continue reading about their history in "A Brief History of Spices"!

Spices come from plants or trees. They are usually in the dried form—they can be harvested from fruits (pepper), bark (cinnamon), roots (ginger), or seeds (coriander seeds). Spices may be whole or powdered. Spice powders may have one or more spices roasted and blended. They can be used as seasoning. You can also make spice blends and hot sauces (Curious about the chemistry of hot sauce? Continue on to "The Science of Hot Sauce: What Makes It Spicy?").

Spices make us think of the kitchen. In the kitchen, they add smell, taste, color, flavor, richness, complexity, and more to food (and drinks: read more about their use in tea and drinks in the Meg A. Mole Interview with Joseph Wiener). The properties of the spices are because of the essential oils they contain (read more in "Spice Up Your Senses: Scent-sational Essential Oils".). Herbs are also used for adding flavor. But they are the leafy portion—like cilantro (leaves) is the herb vs coriander seeds are the spice.

Spices are used in aromatherapy (use of smells for better health; lavender), in making perfumes (anise), medications (capsaicin), incense (cinnamon), cosmetics (turmeric), as insect or animal repellents (garlic/peppermint), home décor (scented wreaths), in religious rituals (cumin), and for their many health benefits (fennel for digestion). They are used in home remedies, too. Cloves are often used for toothaches. They contain a chemical, called eugenol, that naturally soothes pain. However, one small difference in their structure can drastically change their flavor, smell, and how they are used (perform the activity "Small Changes in Structure can Lead to Big Changes in Fragrance" to learn more).

Now you know how spices have many purposes in our everyday lives. They are treasures that also remedy some health issues. But, as always, consume them in moderation. You are now invited to explore the world of spices. You will learn where they come from, how they act, and have fun in the process of finding out all about their hidden lives!