The Difference Between Spices & Herbs Often the terms “spices” and “herbs” seem to be used interchangeably. In fact, there is a distinct difference between what is considered an herb and what is considered a spice. Simply put, the leaf of a plant used in cooking is referred to as a culinary herb, while any other part of the plant is termed a spice. Spices can be buds (cloves), bark ... Continue Reading about How to Store Herbs and Spices