The term "spices" refers to plants or parts thereof (possibly dried) that are used to enhance the flavor or taste of food. They may be either bark, buds, flowers, fruits, leaves, rhizomes, roots, seeds, stigmas and styles or the entire plant tops.

They are well known as appetizers or preservatives and many of them have rich medicinal properties. Spices and herbs are good not only for our taste buds but also for our health, providing calcium, iron, vitamin B, vitamin C, carotene and other antioxidants.