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What is the difference between an herb and a spice?

Spices are aromatic (odorous) seasonings obtained from the bark, buds, fruit, roots, seeds, or stems of various plants and trees. Examples of spices are cloves, cumin, and black pepper.

Herbs, on the other hand, usually come from the leafy part of a plant. Examples of herbs are oregano, basil, cilantro, and bay leaves.

Source: Herbst, Sharon T. The New Food Lover's Companion: Comprehensive Definitions of Over 4000 Food, Wine, and Culinary Terms, p. 440.

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