What Are Herbs and How Are They Different from Spices?

Liputan6.com, Jakarta Many people use herbs in their cooking every day, but they may not really understand what are herbs or how they work. Most home cooks add herbs to their meals because they make food taste better, but they might not know the difference between herbs and other cooking ingredients. When people start learning about cooking, one of the first questions they ask is "what are herbs" and why they are so important in the kitchen.

Herbs and spices have been part of human cooking and medicine for thousands of years across different cultures around the world. However, many people have trouble telling the difference between herbs and spices, even though they use both in their daily cooking. This confusion about what are herbs versus what are spices is very common, and understanding the difference can help people become better cooks and make healthier food choices.

In this article, we will talk about what are herbs and the differences between herbs and spices. We will also share some examples of herbs and their benefits, as well as how to clean and store fresh herbs. We gathered the information from various sources, Sunday (9/11/2025).

So, what are herbs? Herbs are the green, leafy parts of plants that people use to add flavor and smell to food. They come from the leaves of special plants that have strong tastes and good smells. Unlike vegetables, herbs are not eaten as the main part of a meal. Instead, people use small amounts of herbs to make other foods taste better.

The word "herb" comes from plants that have special properties. These plants can make food more delicious, create nice smells, and even help with health problems. Some herbs have big leaves like basil, while others have tiny leaves like thyme. All herbs share one important thing - they make food taste and smell much better.

People can use herbs in two main ways: fresh or dried. Fresh herbs are picked directly from the plant and used right away. They have bright colors and strong flavors. Dried herbs are fresh herbs that have been dried to remove water. This makes them last longer but changes their taste a little bit.

Most herbs belong to plant families that grow easily in gardens. Many people grow herbs at home because they are simple to care for and very useful. Popular herbs include parsley, basil, mint, rosemary, and cilantro. Each herb has its own special taste and smell that makes it good for different types of cooking.

Many people wonder about the difference between herbs and spices because both make food taste better. The main difference is which part of the plant they come from. Herbs always come from the green, leafy parts of plants. Spices come from other parts of plants like seeds, bark, roots, or flowers.

For example, cinnamon is a spice because it comes from tree bark. Black pepper is a spice because it comes from dried berries. Cumin is a spice because it comes from seeds. These are all different from herbs because they do not come from green leaves.

Another important difference is how people use them in cooking. Herbs can be used fresh or dried, but spices are almost always dried before people use them. Fresh herbs are often added at the end of cooking to keep their bright flavors. Spices are usually added during cooking because heat helps bring out their flavors.

The taste diference between herbs and spices is also clear. Herbs usually have lighter, fresher tastes that make food feel bright and clean. Spices often have stronger, warmer flavors that can make food feel rich and deep. Both herbs and spices are important for good cooking, but they work in different ways.

Herbs are not just flavor enhancers - they also offer amazing health benefits that have been studied by scientists. Here are six common herbs that can improve both your cooking and your health.

1. Basil: This popular herb has sweet and slightly spicy flavors that work well in many dishes. Research shows that basil can help control blood pressure and reduce stress. Sweet basil and holy basil are two types that scientists have studied for their health effects. According to AARP, both varieties can help reduce anxiety and improve overall well-being.

2. Garlic: This powerful herb has been used for medicine for thousands of years around the world. Studies show that garlic can help fight common colds and may reduce blood pressure. The strong smell of garlic comes from a special compound that gives it health benefits. Healthline reports that garlic supplementation can reduce blood pressure and provide cardiovascular protection.

3. Ginger: Many people use this herb to help with stomach problems and digestive issues. Scientists have found that ginger can reduce nausea, help with motion sickness, and may even reduce pain from arthritis. Ginger has a warm, spicy taste that works well in both sweet and savory foods. Research cited by Healthline shows that 1 gram of ginger is effective for treating various types of nausea.

4. Rosemary: This herb has a pine-like smell and contains many healthy compounds for the body. Research suggests that rosemary can help improve memory and protect brain cells from damage. It also has compounds that may help control blood sugar levels. According to AARP, rosemary contains antioxidants that may boost immune system function and improve circulation.

5. Mint: This cooling herb can help with digestion and provide a fresh taste to food and drinks. Studies show that peppermint oil can help reduce pain in people with irritable bowel syndrome. Mint is also used in teas and can help people feel more relaxed. Healthline notes that peppermint has potent anti-nausea effects when used in aromatherapy.

6. Sage: This herb has fuzzy, gray-green leaves and has been used for medicine since ancient times. Research shows that sage may help improve memory and mood in people of all ages. Some studies suggest that sage tea can help people with type 2 diabetes control their blood sugar and cholesterol levels. AARP reports that sage contains compounds that may elevate mood and alertness.

Cleaning fresh herbs properly removes dirt and bacteria while keeping the herbs in good condition. Start by filling a large bowl with cold water and put the herbs in the water. Move them around gently with your hands to remove dirt and debris.

Be very gentle with delicate herbs like parsley, cilantro, and basil because they can bruise easily. For stronger herbs like rosemary and thyme, you can handle them more firmly. Never squeeze or press any herbs hard because this can damage their leaves and reduce their flavor.

After washing, shake off excess water and pat the herbs dry with clean paper towels. Make sure the herbs are completely dry before storing them because wet herbs rot quickly. Never use soap to wash herbs - cold water is all you need.

There are two main methods for storing fresh herbs to keep them fresh longer. The method you choose depends on the type of herb you have. Both methods help herbs stay tasty and healthy for several days.

For herbs with tender stems like parsley, cilantro, and basil, put them in a jar with water like flowers. The stems should be in the water, but keep the leaves above water. For herbs with harder stems like rosemary and thyme, wrap them in damp paper towels and put them in a plastic bag.

Basil is different from other herbs because it does not like cold temperatures. Keep basil at room temperature in a jar of water and change the water every few days. All other fresh herbs should be stored in the refrigerator for best results.