Origin:China South-Central, Laos, Malaya, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam
Introduced: Assam, Bangladesh, Cambodia, East Himalaya, India, Kazakhstan, Laccadive Island, Sri Lanka, Tadzhikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Zaire; Currently cultivated worldwide
It has been used in traditional medicine and cultural ceremonies in several countries across the world. The eggplant has been used as a treatment for diabetes, cholera, bronchitis, dysentery, ear infections, toothache, and skin infections. Some countries believe the eggplant has a magical quality and symbolizes protection and good health.
Genus: Solanum - Species: melongena - Family: Solanaceae
Phonetic Spelling: so-LAN-num mel-ON-gen-uh