Asafoetida or hing makes Indian cuisine aromatic.  It has a distinct flavor.  Moreover, it has long been known for the health benefits it has to offer. It has a prominent place in home remedies.

Black pepper is often referred as “king of spice” and is a well-known spice since ancient times.  It is a perennial vine and climber that requires supporting tree to grow in height.

There are three types of cardamom; green, black and Madagascar.  Cardamom is found in the form of a small pods with seeds inside.

Cinnamon is a spice obtained from the inner bark of cinnamon tree.  This is used in both sweet and savory foods.  It is packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.

The fruit of the coriander plan contains two seeds which, when dried, are yellowish-brown in color with longitudinal ridges. 

Curry leaves are the leaves of the curry tree, scientifically known as Murraya koenigii Spreng and it belongs to the Rutaceae family. The plant is native to India and is usually found in tropical and subtropical regions.

Fennel is a perennial herb belonging to the parsley family.  It has a concentrated source of minerals like copper, potassium, calcium, zinc, manganese, vitamin c, iron, and magnesium.

Fenugreek seeds are tiny, bitter seeds of herb fenugreek.  Also, the leaf of this plant is used as a vegetable.  They exhibit strong aromatic flavor.

All parts of the mustard plant are edible, including the seeds.  In India these seeds are black and brown in color.

Saffron is the dried threads of the flower of the Crocus Sativus plant.  These stigmas are hand cultivated and harvested.  Thus, making it the most expensive spices. 

Tamarind is a very large tree with long, heavy drooping branches with dense foliage.  The pods hang on the branches and are brown in color.

Ajwain is a member of the cumin, dill or caraway family.  This is a grayish- green seed and has a strong smell.  When chewed it tastes hot and bitter.  When crushed they have a strong thyme like fragrance. 

Turmeric is a part of the ginger family.  The root contains yellow colored chemical called curcumin.  It is anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.