Generally I find they are. Herbs are leaves, flowers and (herbaceous) stems, spices are other parts. A plant might provide both a herb and a spice, but they will typically be different parts of a plant.
Saffron is from a flower and is considered a spice tho. It might be the way it’s processed that makes a difference. Regardless, when talking of the East India Company, the spice trade, and how that led to conquests, tea is always an important part of that story.
“Herb” and “spice” aren’t mutually exclusive tho.
Generally I find they are. Herbs are leaves, flowers and (herbaceous) stems, spices are other parts. A plant might provide both a herb and a spice, but they will typically be different parts of a plant.
Like coriander vs cilantro. Actually that’s the only example I know.
Saffron is from a flower and is considered a spice tho. It might be the way it’s processed that makes a difference. Regardless, when talking of the East India Company, the spice trade, and how that led to conquests, tea is always an important part of that story.