Spices have played an important economic role throughout history. They were valuable commodities during the Middle Ages in Europe, both as seasonings for food but also as preservatives and ingredients in medicines. The spice trade, especially in Asia, was highly lucrative. Arab states and later colonial powers grew wealthy from the spice trade and defended their monopoly with military force. Spices enhance flavors in food and aid digestion when added to culinary preparations. Ground spices release their flavors faster than whole spices, making them suitable for quickly prepared dishes.