Spices and Culinary HerbsSince ancient times, spices have driven exploration, trade,
and generated wealth. A spice can refer to any dried seed,
fruit, root, or bark used in small quantities to flavor or preserve
food -- but their importance is far beyond their use in
food. Many spices have taken on ceremonial or religious meanings,
and their essential oils form one of the main perfume
categories.
Spices tend to be antibacterial and anti-fungal since that is
how the plants used many of these substances. Medicine has
recently found that many of the brightly colored spices, such
as turmeric and cinnamon, have anti-inflammatory properties,
and are also useful in conditions such as diabetes. They are
also associated with mood lifting and energizing without caffeine.
Chai, tea with a blend of spices (usually including cinnamon,
cardamom, clove, and black pepper), is a great way to
improve digestion, and feel energized and be happier.
Spices also are an important source of natural dyes. Maiwa,
with stores on Granville Island in Vancouver is the best source
to explore natural dyes and dying technique. Visit their website
at http://www.maiwa.com for a glimpse at a remarkable
company. Visiting their stores reminds one of the importance
of color in our lives.
At Sheepish, we stock some great unusual and organic spices and culinary herbs as well as traditional and vegetarian cookbooks.
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