spices

It is believed that the spice trade in Kerala dates back to around 3000 years. The king of Kerala spices is Pepper. The state also has a variety of other spices such as cardamom, ginger, turmeric etc. The state of Kerala continues to be the spice capital of the world. Spices can be defined as " aromatic substances of vegetable origin, used for flavouring food or as a preservative." These spices in addition to being used in food also has medicinal values. For example turmeric is a known anti-oxidant and curry leaves can control or prevent diabetes.

The story of Kerala's spices dates back to many thousands of years into the past. Kerala's claim to fame in the ancient world rested mainly with her fabulous riches brought about due to total monopoly over spices.