We consider them pantry essentials. Dry parts of plants. It’s simple enough. But look closely at that jar of fennel and that sprig of rosemary. What you hold in your hands is a piece of history.
Spices and herbs are more than just taste. These are the dry, aromatic parts of plants that are grown for specific reasons. Some are salty. Some are medical. There were once things that were more valuable than gold.
Spices are made from tropical or subtropical plants. Think cardamom. cinnamon. cloves. ginger. Black pepper. The seeds are also important. Star anise. coriander. cumin. Fennel. Poppy. Sesame.
Herbal medicines are different. The leaves are fragrant. basilica. marjoram. mint. Rosemary. time.
Why do people care about spices and herbs?
In the early days, these plants weren’t just for dinner. They last a lifetime. And survival.
Medicine is the most important. People use them for healing. Make holy oil and salve. to treat diseases. There is also an aphrodisiac corner. Ancient cultures believed that certain roots and seeds stimulated desire.
Next is food preservation. Before cooling, the food spoiled quickly. Spices help prevent this spoilage. They mask the taste of already stale food. Taste is not always important. This will prevent you from getting sick.
The deal that changed the world
This need drives people’s mobility. Trade routes were established to acquire these goods. From Asia to the Middle East. From Europe to Asia.
The discovery of the sea in the 15th century was no accident. They were introduced primarily for the spice trade. Explorers sail to unknown lands in search of cinnamon and pepper.
Wars began in the 17th century. Portugal fought for supremacy. The same goes for the British. Dutch. French. Their East India Company fought hard. British East India Company. Dutch East India Company French East India Company
It’s not just business. This is power. Controlling taste means controlling the market.
What does this mean for us today?
We buy spices in small packages. Add herbs to the soup. We don’t think about ships. company. Centuries of effort.
But the legacy is there. In the smell of morning coffee. On Tuesday night you mix the curry.
Trade routes disappeared. My company has changed. The plants remain.
Why do we still care? Maybe it’s because I wanted to taste the real thing. It has come a long way to reach our plates.
History is complicated. The utility is simple.
Please use them. Please try it. Remember, they just don’t grow here. They were brought here.
