There is an old proverb that says ��Never let a daughter-in-law eat egg-plants in autumn��. Originally it meant that in autumn egg-plants become very tasty, and daughters-in-law who were the least respected members in the family did not deserve such a treat. It is surprising how many people still agree with it. However, the proverb is incorrect not only from a human rights point of view, but also according to the Chinese medicine.
?Winter is the season for Yan-type products that are capable to warm up the body and protect it from cold. On the other hand, summer fruits and vegetables are Ying-type and cool down the body in the summer heat. Melons, tomatoes, cucumbers, water-melons, egg-plants etc. are very refreshing and cooling.
?The best rule for healthy diet is to eat whatever is in season, and it has been well-known in all ages and countries. The traditional Japanese principle ��What is not in season is not in the kitchen�� is only a paraphrase of that rule, and has been a part of Japanese folk medicine since ancient times.
?Egg-plants are purple, which only proves their Ying nature. In addition to that, in autumn, a Ying season, their Ying qualities become even stronger and more obvious.
?As we know for Ying-type Japanese women it can turn out highly dangerous to eat them in autumn, with consequences varying from simple poor blood circulation to miscarriages.
?In summer time we are all happy to eat something cool and sour, with a lot of vinegar, a salad for example. However, a water-melon rich in water and potassium would lead to the same result, being healthier and more fitting the time of the year and Chinese medicine rules.