Purslane (Portulaca Oleracea) has been treated as little more than a common weed for a long time. In reality, though, purslane is categorized as an annual succulent that is popular in the Middle East, Asia, Africa, and Europe. Unfortunately, not much attention is paid to it in the US. The leaves, flowers, seeds, and stem of the plant are all edible, and it has a slightly sour and salty taste.
Purslane is believed to have originated in the Mediterranean region but has been used since prehistoric times the world over, namely in Chinese medicine, as well as Australian aboriginal cultures. Usually added as a culinary implement to dishes such as soups, salads, stews, and bread, the plant can also be taken as a supplement or tea.
Portulaca Oleracea has recently undergone a major comeback in the health & wellness world, and here are just a few of the many benefits this not-so-weedy plant carries after all!
1. Heart Health:
Potassium and Omega-3 fatty acids are well-known heart health boosters,
both of which can be found in purslane. Potassium helps lower the blood
pressure while Omega-3 fatty acids work to reduce the levels of bad
cholesterol that can accumulate in the body.
According to a featured article in Organic Facts, researchers were shocked to do discover extremely high levels of omega-3 fatty acids in purslane, much higher in fact that in some fish oils. Consuming foods that are rich in Omega-3s can not only reduce cardiovascular disease but also atherosclerosis, preventing the risk of heart attack and stroke. Additionally, the potassium-rich purslane can help reduce blood pressure due to acting as a vasodilator, which means it relaxes the blood vessels, eliminating strain on the heart.
2. Cancer Prevention:
purslane contains powerful levels of anti-carcinogenic vitamin C and vitamin A, both of which work to reduce the risk of certain cancers, namely lung and oral cancers. Purslane additionally contains betalain pigment compounds, responsible for the plant’s faint yellow hue. Beta-cyanins and beta-xanthins have been scientifically proven to prevent free radicals from causing mutations in healthy cells, which can potentially lead to the development of cancer.
3. Weight Loss:
Because purslane is a naturally low-calorie, fiber-loaded food, it’s perfect for those looking to shed crucial pounds while still feeling full throughout the day.
4. Gastrointestinal Health:
While many Westerners shy away from alternative treatments such as those
found in Chinese medicine, purslane has long been used to treat
maladies ranging from diarrhea to intestinal bleeding. Purslane’s
organic compounds-dopamine, alanine, glucose, malic acid, and citric
acid are likely responsible for easing gastrointestinal upsets.
5. Bone Strength:
Purslane is rich with calcium, magnesium, iron, and manganese, all vital
protectors of bone health, which can help reduce the chances of
developing osteoporosis later in life.
6. Improved Circulation:
Because it’s full of iron and copper, purslane is a great contributor to a healthy circulatory system.
7. Vision Booster:
Vitamin A and beta-carotene are both necessary for maintaining eye
health, and consumption of purslane can help prevent macular
degeneration and cataracts.
8. Skin Conditions:
Purslane has been known to treat a variety of skin conditions due to its
aforementioned levels of vitamin A. Applied topically it can improve
the appearance of the skin by reducing wrinkles, as well as stimulating
skin cell growth to help treat scars and blemishes.
As David Wolfe reiterates, purslane, once taken for a common weed, is a powerful health-boosting food that can be easily grown and consumed in a variety of ways. The beautiful yellow Portulaca Oleracea plant is extremely versatile, able to grow in a wide range of climates and regions, and is packed with fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, Omega-3 fatty acids, multiple B vitamins, iron, potassium, calcium, magnesium, manganese, and copper, with additional betalain pigments and carotenoid compounds. By regularly consuming this potent little plant in culinary dishes and teas, you can instantly boost your overall wellness and reap the visible rewards, both inside and out.