Spices and aromatics are the very heart of Indian cooking. They have been used since ancient times. They were mentioned in the ancient Hindu scriptures called the Vedas, ancient Egyptian papyruses and the Old Testament.The word spice comes from Latin species, meaning a commodity of value and distinction.Indian spices spices offer significant health benefits and contribute towards an individual's healthy life. They add flavor and nutrients to dishes without fat or calories! Understanding the health benefits of each ingredient is key to optimizing home cooked meals for the particular needs of the family.