Handbook of herbs and spices 2001 vol 2 peter

Handbook of herbs and spices

© 2004, Woodhead Publishing Ltd


Related titles from Woodhead’s food science, technology and nutrition list:
Handbook of herbs and spices Volume 1 (ISBN 1 85573 562 8)
Herbs and spices are among the most versatile and widely used ingredients in food
processing. As well as their traditional role in flavouring and colouring foods, they have
been increasingly used as natural preservatives and for their potential health-promoting
properties, for example as antioxidants. Edited by a leading authority in the field, and with
a distinguished international team of contributors, the Handbook of herbs and spices
provides an essential reference for manufacturers wishing to make the most of these
important ingredients. A first group of chapters looks at general issues including quality
indices for conventional and organically produced herbs, spices and their essential oils. The
main body of the handbook consists of over twenty chapters covering key spices and herbs
from aniseed, bay leaves and black pepper to saffron, tamarind and turmeric. Chapters cover
key issues from definition and classification to chemical structure, cultivation and postharvest processing, uses in food processing, functional properties, regulatory issues, quality
indices and methods of analysis.
Antioxidants in food (ISBN 1 85573 463 X)
Antioxidants are an increasingly important ingredient in food processing, as they inhibit the
development of oxidative rancidity in fat-based foods, particularly meat, dairy products and
fried foods. Recent research suggests that they play a role in limiting cardiovascular disease
and cancers. This book provides a review of the functional role of antioxidants and discusses
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antioxidants in response to the increasing consumer scepticism over synthetic ingredients.
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Consumers demand food products with fewer synthetic additives but increased safety and
shelf-life. These demands have increased the importance of natural antimicrobials which
prevent the growth of pathogenic and spoilage micro-organisms. Edited by a leading expert

in the field, this important collection reviews the range of key antimicrobials together with
their applications in food processing. There are chapters on antimicrobials such as nisin and
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© 2004, Woodhead Publishing Ltd


Handbook of herbs and spices
Volume 2
Edited by
K. V. Peter

CRC Press
Boca Raton Boston New York Washington, DC

Cambridge England

© 2004, Woodhead Publishing Ltd


Published by Woodhead Publishing Limited, Abington Hall, Abington
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© 2004, Woodhead Publishing Ltd
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© 2004, Woodhead Publishing Ltd


Contents

List of contributors
1 Introduction
K. V. Peter, Kerala Agricultural University, India and K. Nirmal Babu,
Indian Institute of Spices Research, India
1.1
Introduction to herbs and spices
1.2
Uses of herbs and spices
1.3
Active plant constituents
1.4
The structure of this book
1.5
References
Part I General issues
2 The functional role of herbal spices

M. R. Shylaja and K. V. Peter, Kerala Agricultural University, India
2.1
Introduction
2.2
Classification
2.3
Production, consumption and processing
2.4
Functional properties
2.5
Sources of further information
3 Herbs and spices and antimicrobials
C. C. Tassou, National Agricultural Research Foundation, Greece, and G.-J.
E. Nychas and P. N. Skandamis, Agricultural University of Athens, Greece
3.1
Introduction
3.2
Barriers to the use of herb and spice essential oils as antimicrobials
in foods
3.3
Measuring antimicrobial activity
3.4
Studies in vitro
3.5
Applications in food systems
3.6
Mode of action and development of resistance
3.7
Legislation

© 2004, Woodhead Publishing Ltd


vi

Contents

3.8
3.9

Future prospects and multifactorial preservation
References

4 Screening for health effects of herbs
R. Rodenburg, TNO Pharma, The Netherlands
4.1
Introduction
4.2
Types of assays
4.3
Throughput vs content assays
4.4
Assay quality
4.5
Screening bio-active compounds
4.6
Screening experiments for anti-inflammatory properties
4.7
Future trends
4.8

Sources of further information
4.9
References
5 Under-utilized herbs and spices
P. N. Ravindran and Geetha S. Pillai, Centre for Medicinal Plants Research,
India and K. Nirmal Babu, Indian Institute of Spices Research, India
5.1
Introduction
5.2
Sweet flag
5.3
Greater galangal
5.4
Angelica
5.5
Horseradish
5.6
Black caraway
5.7
Capers
5.8
Asafoetida
5.9
Hyssop
5.10 Galangal
5.11 Betel vine
5.12 Pomegranate
5.13 Summer savory
5.14 Winter savory
5.15 Other

5.16 References
Part II

Particular herbs and spices

6 Ajowan
S. K. Malhotra and O. P. Vijay, National Research Centre on Seed Spices,
India
6.1
Introduction and description
6.2
Production
6.3
Cultivation
6.4
Chemical structure
6.5
Main uses in food processing
6.6
Functional properties and toxicity
6.7
Quality issues
6.8
References

© 2004, Woodhead Publishing Ltd


Contents

7 Allspice
B. Krishnamoorthy and J. Rema, Indian Institute of Spices Research, India
7.1
Introduction and description
7.2
Production and trade
7.3
Chemical composition
7.4
Cultivation
7.5
Uses
7.6
Functional properties
7.7
Quality issues and adulteration
7.8
References
8 Chervil
A. A. Farooqi and K. N. Srinivasappa, University of Agricultural Sciences,
India
8.1
Introduction and description
8.2
Cultivation and production technology
8.3
Uses
8.4
Sources of further information
9 Coriander

M. M. Sharma and R.K. Sharma, Rajasthan Agricultural University, India
9.1
Introduction and description
9.2
Origin and distribution
9.3
Chemical composition
9.4
Cultivation and post-harvest practices
9.5
Uses
9.6
Diseases, pests and the use of pesticides
9.7
Quality issues
9.8
Value addition
9.9
Future research trends
9.10 References
Appendix I
Appendix II
10 Geranium
M. T. Lis-Balchin, South Bank University, UK
10.1 Introduction
10.2 Chemical composition
10.3 Production and cultivation
10.4 Main uses in food processing and perfumery
10.5 Functional properties
10.6 Quality issues and adulteration

10.7 References
11 Lavender
M. T. Lis-Balchin, South Bank University, UK
11.1 Introduction
11.2 Chemical composition
11.3 Production

© 2004, Woodhead Publishing Ltd

vii


viii

Contents

11.4
11.5
11.6
11.7

Uses in food processing, perfumery and paramedical spheres
Functional properties and toxicity
Quality issues and adulteration
References

12 Mustard
J. Thomas, K. M. Kuruvilla and T. K. Hrideek, ICRI Spices Board, India
12.1 Introduction and description
12.2 Chemical composition

12.3 Production and cultivation
12.4 Uses
12.5 Properties
12.6 Quality specifications
12.7 References
13 Nigella
S. K. Malhotra, National Research Centre on Seed Spices, India
13.1 Introduction and description
13.2 Chemical structure
13.3 Cultivation
13.4 Main uses in food processing
13.5 Functional properties and toxicity
13.6 Quality specifications and adulteration
13.7 References
14 Oregano
S. E. Kintzios, Agricultural University of Athens, Greece
14.1 Introduction and description
14.2 Chemical structure
14.3 Production and cultivation
14.4 Main uses in food processing and medicine
14.5 Functional properties
14.6 Quality specifications and commercial issues
14.7 References
15 Parsley
D. J. Charles, Frontier Natural Products, USA
15.1 Introduction and description
15.2 Chemical composition
15.3 Production and cultivation
15.4 Organic farming
15.5 General uses

15.6 Essential oils and their physicochemical properties
15.7 References
16 Rosemary
B. Sasikumar, Indian Institute of Spices Research, India
16.1 Introduction and description
16.2 Chemical composition
16.3 Production and cultivation

© 2004, Woodhead Publishing Ltd


Contents

16.4
16.5
16.6
16.7
16.8

Post-harvest technology
Uses
Toxicology and disease
Conclusion
References

17 Sesame
D. M. Hegde, Directorate of Oilseeds Research, India
17.1 Introduction
17.2 Chemical composition
17.3 Production

17.4 Processing
17.5 Uses
17.6 Future research needs
17.7 References
18 Star anise
C. K. George, Peermade Development Society, India
18.1 Introduction, morphology and related species
18.2 Histology
18.3 Production and cultivation
18.4 Main uses
18.5 References
19 Thyme
E. Stahl-Biskup, University of Hamburg, Germany and R. P. Venskutonis,
Kaunas University of Technology, Lithuania
19.1 Introduction
19.2 Chemical structure
19.3 Production
19.4 Main uses in food processing
19.5 Functional properties and toxicity
19.6 Quality specifications and issues
19.7 References
20 Vanilla
C. C. de Guzman, University of the Philippines Los Baños, Philippines
20.1 Introduction and description
20.2 Production and trade
20.3 Cultivation
20.4 Harvesting, yield and post-production activities
20.5 Uses
20.6 Vanilla products
20.7 Functional properties

20.8 Quality issues and adulteration
20.9 Improving production of natural vanillin
20.10 Future outlook
20.11 References

© 2004, Woodhead Publishing Ltd

ix


Contributors
(* = main point of contact)

Chapter 1

Chapter 3

Professor K. V. Peter*
Kerala Agricultural University
KAU – PO, Vellanikkara
Thrissur, Kerala State
India – 680656

Dr C. C. Tassou
National Agricultural Research Foundation
Institute of Technology of Agricultural
Products
S Venizelou 1
Lycovrisi 14123
Greece

Tel: 0487 2370034
Fax: 0487 2370019
E-mail:

Dr K. Nirmal Babu
Indian Institute of Spices Research
Calicut – 673 012
India
Tel: 0495 2731410
Fax: 0495 2730294
E-mail:

Chapter 2

Tel: +30 210 2845940
Fax: +30 210 2840740
E-mail:
Professor G.-J. E. Nychas* and
Dr P. N. Skandamis
Agricultural University of Athens
Department of Food Science and
Technology
Iera Odos 75
Athens 11855
Greece

M. R. Shylaja and Professor K. V. Peter*
Kerala Agricultural University
P O KAU 680656, Vellanikkara

Thrissur, Kerala State
India – 680656

Tel/Fax: +30 10 529 4693
E-mail:

Tel: 0487 2370034
Fax: 0487 2370019
E-mail:



Dr R. Rodenburg
TNO Pharma
Utrechtseweg 48
3704HE Zeist
The Netherlands

© 2004, Woodhead Publishing Ltd

Chapter 4


Contributors

Tel: +31 30 6944844
Fax: +31 30 6944845
E-mail:

Chapter 5

P. N. Ravindran* and G. S. Pillai
Centre for Medicinal Plants Research
Arya Vaidya Sala
Kottakkal – 676 503
Kerala
India
Tel: 0483 2743430
Fax: 0483 2742572/2742210
E-mail:

Dr K. Nirmal Babu
Indian Institute of Spices Research
Calicut – 676 012
India

Chapter 8
Dr A. A. Farooqi* and K. N. Srinivasappa
Division of Horticulture
University of Agricultural Sciences
GKVK
Bangalore
India
E-mail:

Chapter 9
Dr M. M. Sharma* and Dr R. K. Sharma
Rajasthan Agricultural University
Bikaner
India
E-mail:

Chapter 10

Tel: 0495 2731410
Fax: 0495 2730294
E-mail:

Dr M. T. Lis-Balchin
School of Applied Science
South Bank University
103 Borough Road
London SE1 0AA

Chapter 6

E-mail:

Dr S. K. Malhotra* and Dr O. P. Vijay
National Research Centre on Seed Spices
Ajmer – 305 206
Rajasthan
India
Tel: +91 145 2680955
Fax: +91 145 2443238
E-mail:

xi

Chapter 11
Dr M. T. Lis-Balchin

School of Applied Science
South Bank University
103 Borough Road
London SE1 0AA
E-mail:

Chapter 7
Mr B. Krishnamoorthy* and Dr J. Rema
Indian Institute of Spices Research
Calicut 673 012
Kerala
India
E-mail:


© 2004, Woodhead Publishing Ltd

Chapter 12
Dr J. Thomas*, K. M. Kuruvilla and
T. K. Hrideek
ICRI Spices Board
Kailasanadu PO
Kerala, India – 685 553
E-mail:


xii

Contributors

Chapter 13

Chapter 17

Dr S. K. Malhotra
National Research Centre on Seed Spices
Ajmer – 305 206
Rajasthan
India

Dr D. M. Hegde
Directorate of Oilseeds Research
Rajendranagar
Hyderabad – 500 030
Andhra Pradesh
India
Tel: +91 040 24015222
Fax: +91 040 24017969

Tel: +91 145 2680955
Fax: +91 145 2443238
E-mail:

E-mail:

Chapter 14

Chapter 18

Professor S. Kintzios

Laboratory of Plant Physiology
Agricultural University of Athens
Iera Odos 75
11855 Athens
Greece

C.K. George
Peermade Development Society
Post Box 11
Peermade – 685531
Idukki Dist.
Kerala
India

Tel: +3210 5294292
Fax: +3210 5294286
E-mail:

E-mail:

Chapter 19
Chapter 15
Dr D. J. Charles
Frontier Natural Products Co-op
3021 78th Street
Norway, IA
52318
USA
E-mail:

Professor E. Stahl-Biskup*
University of Hamburg
Institute of Pharmacy
Department of Pharmaceutical Biology and
Microbiology
Bundesstrasse 45
D-20146 Hamburg
Germany

Chapter 16

Tel: +49 (0)40 42838 3896
Fax: +49 (0)40 42838 3895
E-mail: elisabeth.stahl-biskup
@uni-hamburg.de

Dr B. Sasikumar
Indian Institute of Spices Research
Marikunnu (PO)
Calicut – 673 012
Kerala
India

Professor R. P. Venskutonis
Head of Department of Food Technology
Radvilenu pl. 19
Kaunas
LT – 3028
Lithuania

Tel: 91 495 2731410
Fax: 91 495 2730294
Email:

Tel: +370 37 456426
Fax: +370 37 456647
E-mail:

© 2004, Woodhead Publishing Ltd


Contributors

Chapter 20
Dr C. C. de Guzman
Department of Horticulture
College of Agriculture
University of the Philippines Los Baños
Los Baños

© 2004, Woodhead Publishing Ltd

Laguna 4031
Philippines
Tel: (63-49) 536 2448
Fax: (63-49) 536 2478
E-mail:

xiii

1
Introduction
K. V. Peter, Kerala Agricultural University, India and K. Nirmal Babu,
Indian Institute of Spices Research, India

1.1 Introduction to herbs and spices
The history of herbs and spices is as long as the history of mankind. People have used these
plants since earliest times. No other commodity has played a more pivotal role in the
development of modern civilization as spices. The lives of people and plants are more
entwined than is often realized. Some herbs have the power to change our physiological
functioning, they have revolutionized medicine, created fortunes for those who grow,
process and treat them, and in many cases have assumed social and religious significance.
Herbs have changed the course of history and in economic terms have greater importance as
ingredients in food and medicine, perfumery, cosmetics and garden plants. The knowledge
of herbs has been handed down from generation to generation for thousands of years
(Brown, 1995). Wars have been fought and lands conquered for the sake of these plants.
Even today we continue to depend on herbs and spices for many of our newest medicines,
chemicals and flavours and they are used in culinary preparations, perfumery and cosmetics.
Many medicinal herbs are also food, oil and fibre plants and have always been grown for a
range of purposes (Parry, 1969; Rosengarten, 1973; Andi et al., 1997).
The term ‘herb’ has more than one definition. In the most generally accepted sense,
herbs are plants valued for their medicinal and aromatic properties and are often grown
and harvested for these unique properties. Some of the earliest of herb gardens were
planted about 4000 years ago in Egypt. Herb growing was often associated with temples,
which required herbs and sacred flowers for daily worship and rituals. Both horticulture
and botany began with the study of herbs. The earliest gardens were herb gardens. The
present-day concept of a herb garden has developed largely from ancient Egyptian,
Christian and Islamic traditions. In most parts of the world, herbs are grown mainly as
field crops or on a small scale as a catch-crop among vegetables and ornamentals as they

were thousands of years ago. The cultivation requirements of some of the most important
herbs are given in Table 1.1.

© 2004, Woodhead Publishing Ltd


2

Handbook of herbs and s

Table 1.1

Cultivating requirements and uses

Plant

Propagation

Common uses

Anise

Annual. Seeds are sown in a dry, light
soil in early summer. Seedlings should
be thinned to inches apart. Anise needs
120 frost-free days to produce fully
ripened seed heads.

The aromatic seeds are used in
cooking, in pot-pourris and in some

simple home remedies.

Basil

Perennial. Grows easily from seed. It is
The leaves are a classic complement to
frost sensitive. Basil needs medium-rich, tomatoes; they are also used to flavour
well-drained soil and full sun. Pinch off
salads, sauces and vegetables.
tips and flower buds to promote bushiness.

Chervil
(Anthriscus
cerefolium)

Annual and resembles parsley. Seeds are
sown in spring. Thin to 15 cm (6 inches)
apart. Likes moist, well-drained soil and
partial shade. Will self-sow.

The leaves, with their delicate aniselike flavour, are often used in soups
and salads.

Lavender

Perennial, with many varieties. English
lavender is the hardiest. Mulch it over
the winter. Propagation is easiest by root
division. Likes full sun and alkaline,
gravelly soil.

Grown for its fragrance in the garden
and to be used in pot-pourris and
sachets.

Oregano

Perennial. Prefers well-drained, slightly
alkaline soil and full sun. Propagate by
seed, root division or cuttings.

The leaves are a favorite seasoning for
pizza and other Italian dishes.

Parsley
(Petroselinum
crispum)

Biennial, usually grown as an annual.
Both types like a rich, well-drained soil
and full sun or partial shade. Parsley seeds
seeds germinate slowly. Be patient; keep
the soil moist. Thin to (20 cm) 8 inches
apart.

Curly leaved parsley is popular as
garnish, but flat leaved (Italian) parsley
is more flavourful and is used as
addition to salads and sauces. Parsley
tea makes a healthful tonic.

Rosemary

Perennial, grown indoors in cold climates.
Rosemary needs full sun, and a sandy
well-limed soil. Cut it back after flowering to prevent it from becoming leggy.

Propagate by layering or cuttings. This
is an aromatic flavouring for meat and
poultry dishes. Also used for making
wreaths.

Savory

Winter savory, a perennial, has a peppery, Savory is used to flavour sausages and
pungent flavour. Summer savory, an
other meats and is sometimes included
annual, is similar but more delicate. Plant in a bouquet garni.
seeds of summer savory in a rich, light,
moist soil; thin to 20 cm (8 inches) apart.
Winter savory thrives in poorer soil and
with less water. It can be propagated by
seed, division or cuttings.

Thyme

Perennial. There are many species and
varieties including lemon, English, golden
and garden. The garden variety is the most
popular for cooking. Thyme grows well in

dry sloping sides; pruning after flowering
will keep it from getting woody.
Propagated by cuttings.

Source: Reader’s Digest (1990).

© 2004, Woodhead Publishing Ltd

The leaves add pungent taste to meats
and vegetables; thyme sprigs are a
main ingredient in bouquet garnishing
for soups and stews.


Introduction

3

1.2 Uses of herbs and spices
Herbs and spices have tremendous importance in the way we live, as ingredients in food,
alcoholic beverages, medicine, perfumery, cosmetics, colouring and also as garden plants.
Spices and herbs are used in foods to impart flavour, pungency and colour. They also have
antioxidant, antimicrobial, pharmaceutical and nutritional properties. In addition to the
known direct effects, the use of these plants can also lead to complex secondary effects such
as salt and sugar reduction, improvement of texture and prevention of food spoilage. The
basic effects of spices when used in cooking and confectionery can be for flavouring,
deodorizing/masking, pungency and colouring (Table 1.2). They are also used to make food
and confectionery more appetizing and palatable. Some spices, such as turmeric and
paprika, are used more for imparting an attractive colour than for enhancing taste. The
major colour components of spices are given in Table 1.3. Because of their antioxidant and

Table 1.2

Basic uses of herbs and spices

Basic function

Major function

Subfunction

Flavouring

Parsley, cinnamon, allspice, dill, mint,
tarragon, cumin, marjoram, star anise,
basil, anise, mace, nutmeg, fennel,
sesame, vanilla, fenugreek, cardamom,
celery
Garlic, savory, bay leaves, clove, leek,
thyme, rosemary, caraway, sage,
oregano, onion, coriander
Garlic, savory, bay leaves, clove, leek,
thyme, rosemary, caraway, sage,
oregano, onion, coriander, Japanese
pepper, mustard, ginger, horseradish,
red pepper, pepper

Garlic, onion, bay leaves, clove,
thyme, rosemary, caraway, sage,
savory, coriander, pepper, oregano,
horseradish, Japanese pepper, saffron,

ginger, leek, mustard

Deodorizing/
masking
Pungency

Colouring

Parsley, pepper, allspice, mint,
tarragon, cumin, star anise, mace,
fennel, sesame, cardamom, mustard,
cinnamon, vanilla, horseradish,
Japanese pepper, nutmeg, ginger

Paprika, turmeric, saffron

Source: Ravindran et al. (2002).

Table 1.3

Colour components in spices

Colour component

Tint

Spice

Carotenoid
β-carotene

Cryptoxanthin
Lutin
Zeaxanthin
Capsanthin
Capsorbin
Crocetin
Neoxanthin
Violaxanthin
Crocin
Flavonoids
Curcumin
Chlorophylls

Reddish orange
Red
Dark red
Yellow
Dark Red
Purple red
Dark red
Orange yellow
Orange
Yellowish orange
Yellow
Orange yellow
Green

Red pepper, mustard, paprika, saffron
Paprika, red pepper
Paprika, parsley

Paprika
Paprika, red pepper
Paprika, red pepper
Saffron
Parsley
Parsley, sweet pepper
Saffron
Ginger
Turmeric
Herbs

Source: Ravindran et al. (2002).

© 2004, Woodhead Publishing Ltd


4

Handbook of herbs and ss

Table 1.4

Spices and herbs used in alcoholic beverages

Alcoholic beverages

Spices and herbs used

Vermouth

Marjoram, sage, coriander, ginger, cardamom, clove, mace, peppermint,
thyme, anise, juniper berry
Coriander, juniper berry
Anise, fennel, dill, caraway
Cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, coriander
Caraway, fennel, coriander
Anise, fennel, nutmeg
Cinnamon, cardamom, coriander, mint, fennel, clove, pepper
Cumin
Clove, mace, vanilla
Peppermint
Peppermint

Gin
Aquavit
Curaçao
Kummel
Anisette
Ganica
Geme de cumin
Geme de cacao
Geme de menthe
Peppermint schnapps

Source: Ravindran et al. (2002).

antimicrobial properties, spices have dual function – in addition to imparting flavour and
taste, they play a major role in food preservation by delaying the spoilage of food. Many
herbs and spices have been used in cosmetics, perfumery and beauty and body care since
ancient times. The toiletries and allied industries use spices and herbs and their fragrant oils

for the manufacture of soaps, toothpastes, face packs, lotions, freshness sachets, toilet
waters and hair oils. They are essential ingredients in beauty care as cleansing agents,
infusions, skin toners, moisturizers, eye lotions, bathing oils, shampoos and hair conditioners, cosmetic creams, antiseptic and antitanning lotions and creams, improvement of
complexion and purifying blood (Pamela, 1987; Ravindran et al., 2002). Spices form an
important component in quite a few alcoholic beverages and beers (Table 1.4).

1.2.1 Medicinal uses
Herbs and spices have been an essential factor in health care through the ages in all cultures.
They are prepared in number of ways to extract their active ingredients for internal and
external use. There are a number of different systems of herbal medicine, the most important
of which are Chinese and Indian (Ayurvedic) systems of medicine. All spices are medicinal
and are used extensively in indigenous systems of medicine. Some of the important uses of
major medicinal spices in Ayurveda, according to Mahindru (1982), are given in Table 1.5.
Extracts from herbs and spices are used as infusions, decoctions, macerations, tinctures,
fluid extracts, teas, juices, syrups, poultices, compresses, oils, ointments and powders.
Many medicinal herbs used in Ayurveda have multiple bioactive principles. It is not
always easy to isolate compounds and demonstrate that the efficacy can be attributed to any
one of the active principles. However, the active principles and their molecular mechanism
of action of some of the medicinal plants are being studied (Tables 1.6 and 1.7).

1.3 Active plant constituents
Herbs and spices are rich in volatile oils, which give pleasurable aromas. In addition, herbs
may contain alkaloids and glycosides, which are of greater interest to pharmacologists.
Some of the main active constituents in herbs are as follows (Brown, 1995; De Guzman and
Sienonsma, 1999):

© 2004, Woodhead Publishing Ltd


Introduction

5

• Acids – these are sour, often antiseptic and cleansing.
• Alkaloids – these are bitter, often based on alkaline nitrogenous compounds. They affect
the central nervous system and many are very toxic and addictive.

• Anthraquinones – these are bitter, irritant and laxative, acting also as dyes.
• Bitters – various compounds, mainly iridoides and sesquiterpenes with a bitter taste that
increases and improves digestion.

• Coumarines – are antibacterial, anticoagulant, with a smell of new-mown hay.
• Flavones – these are bitter or sweet, often diuretic, antiseptic, antispasmodic and antiinflammatory. Typically yellow, and present in most plants.

• Glycosides – there are four main kinds of glycosides.

•
•
•
•
•

cardiac: affecting heart contractions;
synogenic: bitter, antispasmodic sedative, affecting heart rate and respiration;
mustard oil: acrid, extremely irritant;
sulphur: acrid, stimulant, antibiotic.
Gums and mucilages – these are bland, sticky or slimy, soothing and softening.
Resins – often found as oleo-resins or oleo-gum resins – they are acrid, astringent,
antiseptic, healing.
Saponins – are sweet, stimulant hormonal, often anti-inflammatory, or diuretic, soapy in

water.
Tannins – are astringent, often antiseptic, checking bleeding and discharges.
Volatile oils – are aromatic, antiseptic, fungicidal, irritant and stimulant.

1.3.1 Genetic erosion in herbs and spices
People all over the world have picked and uprooted herbs from the wild since ancient times.
Medicinal herbs in particular have always been mainly collected from the wild and the
knowledge of where they grow and the best time to gather them has formed an important oral
tradition among healers of many different countries in many different cultures. These
ancient traditions successfully balance supply and demand, allowing plant stock to regenerate seasonally. Owing to the strong commercial pressures of food and pharmaceutical
industries of today, the balance now has been disrupted by unregulated gathering, leading to
severe genetic erosion. Some of the most commonly used culinary herbs such as chilli
peppers (Capsicum annuum var. annuum) and basil (Ocimum basilicum) have such a long
history of use and cultivation that truly wild plants have never been recorded. They
presumably became extinct because of over-collection.

1.4 The structure of this book
This book is the second volume for the series on Herbs and Spices and has two parts. The
first part deals with health benefits of herbs and spices and the use of herbs and spices as
antimicrobials and antioxidants. The second part deals with detailed information on individual spices. This covers a brief description, classification, production, cultivation,
post-harvest handling, uses in food processing, chemical structure and functional properties
of important compounds extracted and quality specifications. The crops covered are tree
spices such as allspice and star anise, and important herbs such as chervil, coriander,
oregano, parsley, rosemary and thyme. A few other spices such as vanilla and sesame are
also included.
Though individual chapters vary in structure and emphasis, depending on the importance

© 2004, Woodhead Publishing Ltd

Use of major medicinal spices in Ayurveda

Standard medicine
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.

28.
29.
30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
35.
36.
37.
38.
39.

es

Table 1.5

Murchchha-paka of ghee,
sesame, mustard, castor oil
Gandha-paka
Anupan
Chaturbhadraka
Panchkala
Valli Panchamula
Trikatu
Lekniya Varga
Dipaniya Varga
Triptaighna Varga
Kushthaghma Varga
Vishaghan Varga

Stunyasodhanna Varga
Sirouirechanopaga
Trishna nigraha Varga
Sitaprasemana Varga
Sulaprasemena Varga
Haridradigana
Mustadigana
Lakshadigana
Rasnadi group
Pippalyadi group
Guruchayadi group
Sunthayadi group
Duralabhadi group
Vishwadi group
Kanadi group
Granthyadi group
Kakolyadi group
Sriphaladi group
Bhunimvadi group
Marichadi group
Katurikadya group
Nimbadi group
Katurikadya group
Trikodi group
Nidigdhikadi group
Katphaladi group
Navanga group

© 2004, Woodhead Publishing Ltd

Turmeric

Ginger

Pepper

Cardamom

Cinnamon/cassia

Nutmeg

Others

✔

–

–

–

–

Coriander

–
✔
–
–

✔
–
✔
–
–
✔
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–
–
–
✔
✔
✔
✔
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
✔
–
✔

–
–
–
–

–
✔
✔
✔
–
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–
✔
✔
–
–
✔
–
✔
✔
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–
–
–
✔
✔
✔
✔
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✔

✔
✔
✔
✔
✔
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✔
✔
✔
✔
✔

–
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–
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–
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✔

–
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Tej patra
(Cinna-tamla)
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Clove, saffron
Ocimum sanctum
–
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Long pepper
–
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Coriander
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Pancha bhadra group
Kiratatiktadi group
Kiratadi group
Aragbadhadi group
Mustadi group
Pathasaptaka group
Amritashtaka group
Kantakaryadi group
Swachchlanda Bhairirava
Agnikumara Rasa
Sri-Mrityunjaya Rasa
Sarvajwarankusa Vatika
Chanderswara
Chadrasekhara Rasa
Nanajwarchha-Sinha
Mritunjaya Rasa
Prachamdeswara Rasa
Tripurabhahairava Rasa
Kaphaketu
Jwara kesari
Jwara murari
Situ bhanjdrosa
Nawa-Jwarari Rasa
Sarwanga Sundara
Jayabati
Srirama rasa
Udakamanjiri
Kshudradi
Nagaradi group

Chaturdasanga
Ashtadasanga
Bhargyadi group
Sathyadi group
Mustadya group
Vyashadi group
Watringa Sanga group
Kankakaryadi group
Vrihatkatphatedi group
Unmatha Rasa
Vnihat Kasturi Bhairava
Sleshma-kalanala

© 2004, Woodhead Publishing Ltd

✔
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–
–
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4

–
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–

–
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–
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4

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–
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Coriander
–
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Coriander
–
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–

7

Source: Mahindru (1982).

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Introduction

40.
41.
42.
43.
44.
45.
46.
47.
48.
49.
50.
51.
52.
53.
54.
55.
56.

57.
58.
59.
60.
61.
62.
63.
64.
65.
66.
67.
68.
69.
70.
71.
72.
73.
74.
75.
76.
77.
78.
79.
80.


8

Handbook of herbs and s

Table 1.6

Ayurvedic modes of administration

Modality

Mode/vehicle

Effects

Potential

Cinnamon oil
Curcuma longa
Asafoetida
Asparagus racemosus
Centella asiatica

Volatiles
‘Band-aid’
Umbilicus
With milk/boiled
Brahmighrita

Antimicrobial
Wound healing
Antiflatulent
Phagocytosis
Nootropic

Infections
Global scope
Post-operative
Rasayana
Alzheimer’s disease

Source: Vaidya (2002).

Table 1.7

Molecular phytopharmacology of a few herbs and spices

Plant

Active principle

Molecular action

Uses

Piper longum
Curcuma longa
Mangifera indica
Coleus forskohlii

Piperine
Curcumin
Mangiferin
Forshlin

RNA synthesis
Protein synthesis
Macrophage activation
cAMP increase

Antiviral
Against Alzheimer’s
Immunostimulant
Against glaucoma

Source: Vaidya (2002).

of the spice and the body of research surrounding it, the matter is organized in the same
format as in the first volume. It is hoped that this book will form a good reference book for
all those who are involved in the study, cultivation, trade and use of spices and herbs.

1.5 References
ANDI C., KATHERINE R., SALLIE M.

and LESLEY M. (1997), The Encyclopedia of Herbs and Spices.
Hermes House, London.
BROWN D. (1995), The Royal Horticultural Society – Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses. Dorling
Kindersley Limited, London.
DE GUZMAN C.C. and SIENONSMA J.S. (1999), Plant Resources of South East Asia. No. 13. Spices.
Backhuys Publishers, Leiden, The Netherlands.
MAHINDRU S.N. (1982), Spices in Indian Life. Sultanchand and Sons, New Delhi.
PAMELA W. (1987), The Encyclopedia of Herbs and Spices. Marshall Cavendish Books Ltd, London.
PARRY J.W. (1969), Spices Volumes I & II. Chemical Publishing Co., New York.
RAVINDRAN P.N, JOHNY A.K and NIRMAL BABU K. (2002), Spices in our daily life. Satabdi Smaranika
2002 Vol. 2. Arya Vaidya Sala, Kottakkal.

READER’S DIGEST (1990), Magic and Medicine of Plants. Readers Digest Association, Inc., USA.
ROSENGARTEN F. (1973), The Book of Spices, Revised Edition. Pyramid, New York.
VAIDYA A.D.B. (2002), Recent trends in research on Ayurveda. Satabdi Smaranika 2002 Vol. 1. Arya
Vaidya Sala, Kottakkal.

© 2004, Woodhead Publishing Ltd


Part I
General issues

© 2004, Woodhead Publishing Ltd


2
The functional role of herbal spices
M. R. Shylaja and K. V. Peter, Kerala Agricultural University, India

2.1

Introduction

Herbal spices or leafy spices are annual/biennial/perennial plants, the leaves of which (fresh
or dry) are primarily used for flavouring foods and beverages. Apart from being used as
flavouring agents, herbal spices are also known to possess nutritional, antioxidant, antimicrobial and medicinal properties. Because of the attractive foliage, a few herbs are also used
as garnishing spices in many food preparations. The essential oils extracted from tender
stems, leaves and flowering tops are used in cosmetics, perfumeries and toiletries and for
flavouring liquors, soft drinks, beverages and pharmaceutical preparations. ISO document
676 lists 38 leafy spices ( Table 2.1).
Table 2.1

Leafy spices in ISO document 676

SI No. Botanical name

Family

Common name

Plant part used as spice
Bulb, leaf
Leaf and bulb

1.
2.

Allium tuberosum
Allium fistulosum

Liliaceae
Liliaceae

3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.

Allium porrum

Allium schoenoprasum
Anethum graveolens
Anthriscus cereifolium
Apium graveolens
Apium graveolens var.
rapaceum
Artemisia dracunculus
Cinnamomum
aromaticum
Cinnamomum tamala
Cinnamomum
zeylanicum
Coriandrum sativum
Foeniculum vulgare
Foeniculum vulgare
Hyssopus officinalis

Liliaceae
Liliaceae
Apiaceae
Apiaceae
Apiaceae
Apiaceae

Indian leek, Chinese chive
Stony leek, Welsh onion,
Japanese bunching onion
Leek, winter leek
Chive
Dill

Chevril
Celery, garden celery
Celeriac

Asteraceae
Lauraceae

Tarragon, estragon
Cassia, Chinese Cassia

Leaf
Bark, leaf

Lauraceae
Lauraceae

Tejpat, Indian Cassia
Srilankan cinnamon,
Indian cinnamon
Coriander
Bitter fennel
Sweet fennel
Hyssop

Leaf, bark
Bark, leaf

9.
10.
11.

12.
13.
14.
15.
16.

© 2004, Woodhead Publishing Ltd

Apiaceae
Apiaceae
Apiaceae
Lamiaceae

Leaf and bulb
Leaf
Fruit, leaf, top
Leaf
Fruit, root, leaf
Fruit, root, leaf

Leaf, fruit
Leaf, twig, fruit
Leaf, twig, fruit
Leaf


12

17.
18.

19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
35.
36.
37.
38.

Handbook of herbs and s

Laurus nobilis

Lauraceae

Laurel, true laurel, bay leaf, Leaf
sweet flag
Levisticum officinale

Apiaceae
Garden lovage, lovage
Fruit, leaf
Lippia graveolens and Verbenaceae Mexican oregano
Leaf terminal shoot
Lippia berlandieri
Melissa officinalis
Lamiaceae Balm, lemon balm, melissa Leaf, terminal shoot
Mentha arvensis
Lamiaceae Japanese mint, field mint,
Leaf, terminal shoot
corn mint
Mentha citrata
Lamiaceae Bergamot
Leaf, terminal shoot
Mentha piperita
Lamiaceae Peppermint
Leaf, terminal shoot
Mentha spicata
Lamiaceae Spearmint, garden mint
Leaf, terminal shoot
Murraya koenigii
Rutaceae
Curry leaf
Leaf
Ocimum basilicum
Lamiaceae Sweet basil
Leaf, terminal shoot
Origanum majorana
Lamiaceae Sweet marjoram

Leaf, floral bud
Origanum vulgare
Lamiaceae Oregano, origan
Leaf, flower
Petroselinum crispum Apiaceae
Parsley
Leaf, root
Pimenta dioica
Myrtaceae Pimento
Fruit, leaf
Pimenta racemosa
Myrtaceae West Indian bay
Fruit, leaf
Rosmarinus officinalis Lamiaceae Rosemary
Terminal shoot, leaf
Salvia officinalis
Lamiaceae Garden sage
Terminal shoot, leaf
Satureja hortensis
Lamiaceae Summer savory
Terminal shoot, leaf
Satureja montana
Lamiaceae Winter savory
Terminal shoot, leaf
Thymus serpyllum
Lamiaceae Wild thyme, creeping thyme Terminal shoot, leaf
Thymus vulgaris
Lamiaceae Thyme, common thyme
Terminal shoot, leaf
Trigonella

Fabaceae
Creeping thyme, fenugreek Seed, leaf
foenumgraecum

2.2 Classification
Herbal spices can be classified based on botanical families, crop duration and growth habit.

2.2.1 Classification based on botanical families
Family

Crop

Apiaceae
Lamiaceae
Liliaceae

Dill, celery, fennel, lovage, parsley, etc.
Hyssop, mint, basil, marjoram, oregano, rosemary, sage, thyme, etc.
Leek, chive

2.2.2 Classification based on duration of crop
Annual
Basil, coriander, dill, etc.
Biennial
Caraway, leek, parsley, etc.
Perennial
Sage, laurel, pimenta, curry leaf, chive, mint, oregano, tarragon,
thyme, etc.
2.2.3 Classification based on growth habit
Herbs

Caraway, coriander, mint, oregano, marjoram
Shrubs
Rosemary, sage, thyme
Trees
Pimenta, curry leaf, laurel

© 2004, Woodhead Publishing Ltd