Eggplants, a member of the nightshade family, lessen the factors for developing rheumatoid arthritis, help remove excess iron from the body, protect the fat in brain cells and have anti-cancer, antimicrobial and antiviral properties.  They are rich in vitamin B1 and copper, and a good source of manganese, vitamin B6, niacin, potassium, folate, and vitamin K.  They contain phytonutrients nasunin and chlorogenic acid.  Walnuts are packed with Omega-3 fatty acids, and can reduce breast cancer and diabetes risks, boost heart health, improve reproductive health in men, may help prevent chemically-induced liver damage and have favorable effects on insulin levels in overweight adults.  An excellent protein and fiber source, they are loaded with manganese, as well as a good provider of copper, molybdenum, calcium and iron.  Ginger is known for its ability to kill ovarian cancer cells, relieve nausea and vomiting, relieve gastrointestinal distress and protect against colorectal distress.  It contains gingerols, zingerone, potassium, manganese, copper, magnesium, and vitamins B5 and B6.  Garlic helps prevent Alzheimer’s and dementia, protects against cell damage and aging, has been shown to protect against organ damage from heavy metal toxicity, aids in digestion and elimination of wastes from the body, purifies the bloodstream and remedies stomach inflammation.  It is one of the richest sources of potassium, iron, calcium, magnesium, manganese, zinc and selenium.  Allspice has warming, soothing, anti-flatulence, anesthetic and antiseptic properties.  The outer coat of the allspice-berries is believed to have the greatest concentration of some of the compounds of medicinal activities.  It is rich in vitamins A and C, several B-complex vitamins, calcium and manganese, and a good source of iron, magnesium, potassium and copper.

Eggplant is a species of nightshade. Eggplant is very versatile, and has been used in many traditional cuisines prepared many different ways. Eggplant is an excellent source of dietary fiber. It is also rich in B vitamins, copper, and manganese as well as in phenolic antioxidant compounds – compounds which scavenge free radicals in the body. Eggplants have shown to be good for cardiovascular health.

A walnut is the nut of any tree of the genus Juglans, particularly the Persian or English walnut, Juglans regia. It is used for food after full ripening for its nutmeat. Walnuts are a powerhouse of healthy nutrition. They are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, with just ¼ cup of walnuts providing over 100% of the USRDA for omega-3 fatty acids. They are also ample sources of copper, manganese, molybdenum, and biotin. Walnuts are excellent for the cardiovascular system, help prevent cancer, and contain unique phytonutrition that we are just beginning to understand. Walnuts are an essential part of a healthy diet.

Ginger or ginger root is the rhizome of the plant Zingiber officinale. In addition to ginger’s amazing warm flavor, it’s a strong anti-inflammatory and a great digestive tonic. Many people find relief of nausea using ginger – including that produced by morning sickness during pregnancy and by motion sickness.

Allium sativum, commonly known as garlic, is a species in the onion genus, Allium. Garlic is a powerful anti-fungal agent and has been used traditionally to ward off sickness and infection. Studies show that garlic reduces cholesterol production, reduces blood pressure, and is preventive against stomach cancer.

Virgin olive oil is olive oil that hasn’t been processed. Olive oil is a fat obtained from the olive, a traditional tree crop of the Mediterranean Basin. Olive oil is an excellent source of monounsaturated fatty acids, essential to heart and nerve health. Olive oil is rich in vitamin E. Olive oil, especially extra virgin, contains tyrosol phenolic compounds such as oleuropein and oleocanthal. These compounds are responsible for its bitter, and pungent taste. Oleocanthal, oleurpein, and its derivative hydroxytyrosol are powerful antioxidants. They play a vital role fighting against cancer, inflammation, coronary artery disease, degenerative nerve diseases, diabetes and more.

Allspice is the dried unripe fruit of Pimenta dioica. Allspice is a powerful superfoods containing volatile oils shown to stimulate digestion. It is rich in the volatile oil eugenol, which has local anesthetic and antiseptic properties and has been used in teeth and gum procedures. Allspice also contains ample amounts of Vitmin A, Vitamin B1, Vitamin B2, and Vitamin C as well as the minerals calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, copper, and manganese. Your Reading the Smoothie Ingredients Guide Health Benefits and Facts.

Common salt is a mineral substance composed primarily of sodium chloride. Salt provides sodium, which is absolutely essential for cell function and human life itself. The average American diet contains far too much salt, making this ingredient a good one to avoid if you are uncertain how much you are getting in your food. Over-intake of sodium is a cause of many health problems, including cardiovascular disease.

The cayenne pepper is a cultivar of Capsicum annuum. Although incredibly hot and spicy even in small amounts, cayenne is packed with nutrition and phytonutrients. Cayenne is high in Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, niacin, riboflavin, Iron, Copper, and Potassium. Cayenne also contains plenty of, capsaicin, which has been found to have anti-bacterial, anti-carcinogenic, analgesic, and anti-diabetic properties. It’s also been shown to reduce LDL (bad cholesterol) levels.

The Dr. Weil Eggplant-Walnut Pâté is an amazing spread on gluten-free crackers or a sandwich, or as a decadent appetizer for serving at a special occasion. The Dr. Weil Eggplant-Walnut Pâté is full of protein and fiber so you will stay full, as well as many other vitamins and minerals. Because eggplants are naturally high in salt, this may not be the best food for those with high blood pressure. However, those with sensitivities to dairy and gluten can indulge! The Dr. Weil Eggplant-Walnut Pâté is the perfect substitute for high-fat, processed and unhealthy dips and sauces. It’s super easy to whip up in the Vitamix or Blendtec and one of the cheapest recipies around. The most expensive item on your grocery list will be the cup of walnuts!