Description

Purslane is a common growing weed found all over the world. It is a spongy plant (succulent) and has white gum-like substance in it. It grows between 10-40 cm tall, and the stems may either grow horizontally or vertically. The dark green leaves are arranged opposite or alternate to each other. Its small yellow flowers wither early while the fruit is oval-shaped containing many small, shiny black seeds. It belongs to the Portulacaceae family. The name Portulaca is taken from the Latin word ‘Porto’ meaning ‘to carry’ and ‘lac’ meaning milk, due to a milky latex present in the plant. Oleracea is a Latin word, meaning ‘pertaining to kitchen gardens’, as it is used as a vegetable. The plant is in full bloom from July to September. It is quite used in India, Japan, Africa, America, and Australia. It is also considered as a medicinal plant. WHO (World Health Organization) has included Purslane in its list of most widely used medicinal plants. It has been cultivated for hundreds of years in Europe as a medicinal plant but in the 1500s people started consuming it as a vegetable there. Then it was brought to America and spread to other parts of the world. Purslane has a thick juicy texture that may find enjoyable.

Health benefits

• The leaves of purslane are abundant in omega-3 fatty acids that help lower cholesterol and blood pressure levels thus improving heart health.⁽¹⁾
• It contains a concentrated source of vitamin A which is excellent for good eyesight.⁽¹⁾
• It contains minerals like zinc which boosts immunity and calcium that strengthens bones and teeth and helps in proper nerve function.⁽¹⁾
• It is rich in Vitamin C and is considered an antiscorbutic, meaning it prevents Vitamin C deficiency disease called scurvy.⁽¹⁾
• It also has very strong detoxifying and purifying properties.⁽¹⁾