Solanum melongena L.
Summary
Terung, or eggplant (Solanum melongena), is an annual shrub up to 1.5 meters tall of the Solanaceae family, native to the Indo-Burma region with centers of diversity in China and Africa. In Indonesia, this plant is widely cultivated in West Java, East Java, and South Sulawesi as an everyday vegetable. Besides being eaten, eggplant is traditionally believed to help lower blood pressure and relieve asthma symptoms.
Agroecology
Grows at temperatures of 25-35°C, pH 5.5-6.8, tolerant of drought and high rainfall. Can grow year-round regardless of season. At elevations above 1,200 m above sea level, growth is hindered and production decreases.
Morphology
- Roots taproot.
- Leaves ovate, petiole 10 cm long, rounded heart-shaped base, blunt tip, smooth margins, pinnate venation, green.
- Flowers bisexual, one flower contains male organs (stamens) and female organs (pistil). This flower is called a complete flower.
- Fruit a true fruit, solitary, thick-fleshed, soft.
- Seeds glossy, mucilaginous, oblong-round shaped, and brown to blackish in color.
Cultivation
Propagated generatively (by seed). Seeds are soaked in warm water for 10-15 minutes, then wrapped in a wet cloth and left for 24 hours. Sown on a seedbed.
Chemical Content
Phenolics, flavonoids, anthocyanins, steroids, alkaloids, glycosides, saponins, tannins, chlorogenic acid.
Benefits
Lowers blood pressure; antidiabetic; addresses asthma, bronchitis, cholera, rheumatism, arthritis; aids digestion; helps prevent epilepsy.
Simplisia
Not yet available
Local Names
Latteung (Tapanuli), Terong, Encung, Tiung (Sumatra).
Traditional Recipes
The following recipes reflect traditional knowledge passed down through generations, not a substitute for professional medical diagnosis or advice. Consult a healthcare provider before use.
1. Lowering Blood Pressure
- Prepare 250 g purple eggplant, 30 g corn silk, and 150 g cogon grass root.
- Boil all ingredients in 1 L of water until reduced to 400 ml. Let cool and strain.
- Drink twice a day, 1 cup each time.
2. Rheumatism and Arthritis
- Prepare 60 g purple eggplant root, 15 g red ginger, 20 g Javanese turmeric.
- Wash and boil all ingredients in 600 ml water until boiling and reduced to 300 ml. Strain and let cool.
- Drink twice a day, 150 ml each time.