Although often considered a vegetable, they’re technically a fruit, as they grow from a flowering plant and contain seeds. There are many varieties that range in size and color. And while eggplants with a deep purple skin are most common, they can be red, green or even black. In addition to bringing a unique texture and mild flavor to recipes, eggplant brings a host of potential health benefits.The eggplant has been an ingredient in traditional medicine for thousands of years. In the ancient Indian system of ayurvedic medicine, practitioners used white eggplant to treat diabetes and the roots to relieve asthma.While eggplant isn't the most nutritious vegetable, it does give you a decent supply of potassium and fiber. And at just 25 calories and less than 1 gram of fat per serving, it's a pretty guilt-free food -- as long as you don't soak it in oil.Eggplant has antioxidants like vitamins A and C, which help protect your cells against damage. It's also high in natural plant chemicals called polyphenols, which may help cells do a better job of processing sugar if you have diabetes.Early lab studies in cells suggest that eggplant protects against the type of DNA damage that leads to cancer. But researchers still need to confirm this benefit in humans.https://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/eggplant-health-benefits