A spice is a seed, fruit, root, bark, or other plant substance used primarily to flavor, color, or preserve food. Spices are distinguished from herbs, which are the leaves, flowers or stems of plants that are used for flavoring or garnishing. Many spices have antimicrobial properties, which may explain why spices are more prominent in kitchens that originate in warmer climates, where spoilage is more likely. food, and why the use of spices is more common with meat, which is particularly susceptible to spoilage. Spices are sometimes used in medicine, religious rituals, cosmetics, or perfume production.