Chinese Herbal Medicine Aubergine: An Introduction
Chinese herbal medicine has been used by people around the world for centuries. The list of herbs and minerals used in these remedies is vast, encompassing both common and rare herbs. One of the lesser known herbs used in Chinese herbal medicine is aubergine (scientific name: Solanum tuberosum), also known as Chinese eggplant or Chinese solanum.
Native to Southeast Asia, aubergine has been used for at least two thousand years for its medicinal properties. In traditional Chinese medicine, it is often combined with other herbs to treat a variety of conditions, from digestive problems to chronic pain.
Aubergine is a plant in the Solanaceae family, which includes tomatoes and potatoes. It grows up to one meter in height, with a thick foliage and brownish grayish bark. The fruit is a small, dark purple berry, roughly the size of a walnut, with a sweet flavor.
The Chinese use aubergine for a variety of medicinal purposes, most commonly for treating gastrointestinal issues such as constipation and diarrhea. It is believed to help reduce inflammation and improve digestion, as well as stimulate the appetite and reduce bad breath. In addition, aubergine is also credited with helping to lower levels of bad cholesterol and may have some anti-cancer properties.
Aubergine is used in a variety of traditional medicines, including teas, powders, capsules, pills, syrups, decoctions and infusions. For example, aubergine is sometimes added to preparations that are used to treat fever, colds, flu and infections. The herb is also said to have an anti-viral effect and in some cases, it is administered intravenously.
In addition to its medicinal properties, aubergine is also used as a food seasoning in some Asian cuisines, to enhance the flavor of dishes. The small, dark purple berries are usually added during cooking, in order to impart a sweet, earthy flavor to various dishes.
Due to its medicinal and culinary properties, aubergine is becoming increasingly popular in western herbal medicine. However, it is important to note that like with any other herbal remedy, it is necessary to consult a qualified herbalist or doctor before using aubergine for medicinal purposes.
In conclusion, aubergine is a lesser known herb used in traditional Chinese medicine, as well as in some Asian cuisines. It has numerous medicinal properties and is used to treat digestive issues, reduce inflammation, lower bad cholesterol and even boost the immune system. While it is becoming increasingly popular in western herbal medicine, it is important to seek advice from a qualified herbalist or doctor before using aubergine for medicinal purposes.
