Eggplant is a flowering vegetable and native to India. 

Ranging in color from rich purple to white and varying in length from 2 to 12 inches, these giant berries are a member of the Nightshade family, which also includes tomaotes and potatoes.

Eggplants contain terpenes, anthocyanins and chlorogenic acid.

Antioxidant Score (ORAC)=933

Choose an eggplant with firm, smooth-skin that`s heavy for its size. Avoid those with soft or brown spots. Becasue eggplants become bitter with age, they should be stored in a cool, dry place and used within a day or two of purchase.