Of course, here are the ancient origins of five popular herbs and spices:

1. **Cinnamon**: Cinnamon has an ancient history dating back to the Egyptian civilization, where it was highly valued and used in religious rituals and in the mummification process. It later became a valuable commodity on trade routes between the Middle East and Europe, being used both as a spice and as a medicine.

2. **Black Pepper**: Black pepper has been used for thousands of years, with evidence of its use in cooking found in archaeological sites in India dating back to around 2000 B.C. It was valued for its medicinal properties and as a spice. Its popularity grew over the centuries, and it was one of the main commodities traded along trade routes between the East and West.

3. **Basil**: Basil is native to India and has a long history of use in cooking and Ayurvedic medicine. It was considered a sacred herb in ancient India and was used in religious and funeral rituals. Its popularity spread throughout Asia and the Mediterranean over the centuries.

4. **Ginger**: Ginger has its origins in Asia, where it was cultivated in ancient China and India. It was valued both for its medicinal properties and for its spicy flavor in cooking. Ginger was widely used in traditional Chinese and Indian medicine to treat a variety of conditions, and its trade was important along the Silk Road.

5. **Mint**: Mint has a long history of use in several ancient cultures, including the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans. It was used to flavor foods, drinks, and even baths. Additionally, mint was recognized for its medicinal properties and was used to treat a variety of digestive and respiratory ailments.