Herbs and spices add flavor, aroma, color, and nutrition to cooking. Herbs are fresh or dried leaves of plants, while spices are typically dried seeds, fruits, roots, or bark. Popular herbs include basil, thyme, rosemary, and parsley, and common spices include cinnamon, cumin, paprika, and ginger. Along with their culinary uses, herbs and spices have health benefits and are used in personal care and cosmetic products for fragrance and therapeutic properties. They are a versatile and flavorful ingredient that can elevate any meal, sweet or savory.