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Many unjustly label it a weed, but in fact it is one of the most medicinal plants, originally from India and Persia. Today it has spread all over the world. In some countries it is even cultivated intentionally as a food. Unfortunately, in most other countries, including the Czech Republic, it is considered a weed, and therefore people get rid of it and often throw it away.
What is vegetable purslane?
Vegetable purslane (lat. Portulaca oleracea) is a commonly occurring plant that you will likely find in your garden. It has yellow flowers and succulent, fleshy leaves. This plant is not only edible but also very nutritious and has strong medicinal properties.
Purslane seeds are very resilient and can survive in various climatic conditions. They can remain in the soil for up to 40 years waiting for favorable conditions to germinate. Thanks to that, it has spread throughout the world. This hardy plant has a positive effect on the immune system and overall health.
Some call purslane “pig weed” because pig farms like it. It is a much better feed for them than genetically modified feed.
Nutritional value of purslane
Fresh leaves of vegetable purslane contain surprisingly more omega-3 fatty acids than some fish oils. Moreover, it has one of the highest contents of beta-carotene (vitamin A) among common types of vegetables. Vitamin A is important for eye health and helps protect against several types of cancer.
Purslane is rich in two powerful antioxidants – betaxanthin (yellow pigment) and betacyanin (red pigment). These substances have strong antioxidant and antimutagenic effects.
Other substances found in purslane are:
- Vitamin C
- B vitamins, including niacin and riboflavin
- Carotenoids
- Calcium
- Magnesium
- Potassium
- Iron
- Copper
Health benefits of purslane
Purslane has a number of health benefits that should not be overlooked. Some of the most important effects include:
1. Heart and vascular health
The high content of omega-3 fatty acids helps maintain heart health. Omega-3 acids reduce levels of harmful cholesterol and protect against atherosclerosis, heart attack and strokes.
2. Support for weight loss
Purslane is low in calories and rich in fiber, which provides a feeling of fullness and can help with weight loss.
3. Help with hyperactivity in children
Studies show that omega-3 fatty acids have a positive effect on reducing symptoms of ADHD and hyperactivity in children.
4. Digestive problems
In traditional Chinese medicine, purslane is used to treat diarrhea, intestinal bleeding, dysentery and hemorrhoids.
5. Treatment of skin problems
Purslane may be effective in treating skin problems such as inflammations, swelling after insect bites, wrinkles or scars.
6. Cancer prevention
The high content of vitamins C and A and antioxidants helps protect the body from cellular damage caused by free radicals, thereby increasing protection against cancer.
7. Prevention of osteoporosis
The minerals found in purslane help protect bones from osteoporosis. This is due to the high content of calcium, magnesium, iron and manganese.
8. Improvement of circulation and red blood cell production
The high content of iron and copper supports the production of red blood cells, accelerates tissue healing and improves metabolism.
9. Supports healthy hair and nails
If you suffer from hair loss or brittle nails, purslane can help strengthen and regenerate them.
Warning
Purslane also contains oxalates, which can contribute to the formation of kidney stones. If you have a predisposition to kidney stones or other kidney diseases, it is recommended to limit consumption of purslane or avoid it altogether.
Conclusion
Vegetable purslane has many nutritional and health benefits that make it a valuable medicinal plant. It’s time to stop considering it a weed and start using it for its exceptional properties. Many people today spend a lot of money on dietary supplements and vitamins, but consuming purslane could bring not only health benefits but also significant savings.
