Kerala and the special region called Munnar have always been renowned for spices since time immemorial. While a large quantity of spices is indeed grown across India, the spices from Munnar and the rest of Kerala have something special. They are more piquant, have more oleoresins and are richer in taste and flavor.

The quality and value of spices grown in Kerala especially in the Munnar region have to be taken into account. They get the best prices and are auctioned, sold and traded in spice exchanges and market places across the world. The priciest among them include Pepper, Cardamom, Ginger, Turmeric, Clove, Nutmeg, Mace, Vanilla and Cambodge. Other special produce includes Vanilla and Cocoa.

It is believed that Kerala has been at the center of the spices trade for much earlier than 3000 BCE! Another item that led the world to this fabled region was the Sandalwood which grows in the deep forests of Kerala. In earlier days, the spice plants were wild and grew in abundance in the forests. The produce was collected by the tribesmen and traded. The kings and kingdoms of Kerala grew rich and prosperous through the spice trade.

In modern times, spices are cultivated scientifically by spice farmers of Kerala utilizing hybrid varieties which leads to greater productivity at a lower cost of input. The spices are nurtured and harvested at the right time. The produce gets processed through drying in the sun, cleaned and gleaned to remove dust and other residual particles and are cleanly packed in modern packs that sustain their storage life.

Spices have always been a staple and integral part of the culture, lifestyle, and lore of Kerala. All traditional medicines have some or the other spices in it as all spices have medicinal properties. Spices and herbs are part of the local cuisine and diet. This is the reason why Keralan cuisine is loved and enjoyed around the world.

Today spices are a major commodity of trade and bring India much needed foreign exchange. The world loves Kerala spices and its demand has only increased over the years. The production of spices through better scientific farming and irrigation methods has increased multifold. The farmers of Kerala and Munnar have been able to gain much from spices and it is a highly profitable and rewarding crop.