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The Multifaceted Value of Herbs and Spices: Enhancing Health, Food Quality, and Economic Viability

Author

Listed:
  • Ahmed Tawakalitu

    (Perishable Crops Research Department, Nigerian Stored Products Research Institute (NSPRI) Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria)

  • Onyegbula Akudo Francilia

    (Perishable Crops Research Department, Nigerian Stored Products Research Institute (NSPRI) Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria)

  • Lawal Israel Oluwasanmi

    (Perishable Crops Research Department, Nigerian Stored Products Research Institute (NSPRI) Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria)

  • Adole Ekedegwa Benedict

    (Perishable Crops Research Department, Nigerian Stored Products Research Institute (NSPRI) Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria)

  • Oyeyipo Stephen Olufemi

    (Perishable Crops Research Department, Nigerian Stored Products Research Institute (NSPRI) Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria)

  • Adediran Blessing Iyanuoluwa

    (Perishable Crops Research Department, Nigerian Stored Products Research Institute (NSPRI) Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria)

  • Ariyo Damilola Olubunmi

    (Perishable Crops Research Department, Nigerian Stored Products Research Institute (NSPRI) Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria)

Abstract

Herbs and spices have long been valued for their culinary and medicinal properties, transitioning from humble, low-cost plant parts to highly prized commodities such as gold and jewels. This paper varied the roles of herbs and spices in various application. A systematic approach was adopted for this review paper. The herbs and spices play a crucial role in enhancing the sensory attributes of food, prolonging the shelf life of food, and offering health benefits through their bio-active compounds, which can help reduce the risk of degenerative diseases such as diabetes, obesity, cancer, and cardiovascular conditions. In Nigeria's biodiversity-rich context, herbs and spices are essential both as food enhancers, raw materials for the pharmaceuticals and cosmetics industry with value-added products ensuring year-round availability and economic viability. Additionally, the residual matter of spices, rich in dietary fibers and nutrients, offers further industrial applications, highlighting the necessity for sustainable practices to fully unlock their potential. This study emphasizes the importance of herbs and spices in promoting health, improving food quality, and supporting economic development.

Suggested Citation

  • Ahmed Tawakalitu & Onyegbula Akudo Francilia & Lawal Israel Oluwasanmi & Adole Ekedegwa Benedict & Oyeyipo Stephen Olufemi & Adediran Blessing Iyanuoluwa & Ariyo Damilola Olubunmi, 2025. "The Multifaceted Value of Herbs and Spices: Enhancing Health, Food Quality, and Economic Viability," Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development Studies, "Dunarea de Jos" University of Galati, Doctoral Field Engineering and Management in Agriculture and Rural Development, issue 1, pages 107-119.
    • Handle: RePEc:ddj:ejards:y:2025:i:1:p:107-119
    DOI: https://doi.org/10.35219/jards.2025.1.10
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