Purslane (Portulaca oleracea)

Amazing heart healthy superfood everyone should include in their farmacy

Purslane is a tasty succulent packed with nutrients, giving it a multitude of health benefits.   Purslane is rich in the essential Omega-3 fatty acid, alpha-linolenic acid;  minerals: zinc, iron, potassium, manganese, copper, magnesium, & calcium; and Vitamins: A, B1, B2, B3, B6, C, & E.   Purslane also contains betalain alkaloid pigments in the reddish stem, betacyanins in the yellow pigment of the flowers, and betaxanthin in the leaves. All these pigments provide powerful antioxidant and antimutagenic effects,. Purslane is rich in fiber and is one of the vegetables with the lowest calories at 16kcal/100g.

Purslane is such an amazing superfood because it not only contains so many beneficial nutrients for us, it contains them in high levels relative to other plants.  Vegans and vegetarians looking for Omega-3 fatty acids have the richest plant-based source of omega-3’s in Purslane!!! Vitamin E and Beta Carotene are at six times the level they are found in spinach or carrots.  Purslane also contains potassium in higher levels than other plants, which is not only important for metabolism, but stabilizing blood sugar levels and maintaining a healthy circulatory system.  Purslane is also high in pectin which is known to lower cholesterol.

Purslane is tasty, somewhat crunchy, a little citrusy, and slightly peppery.  Some people compare it to watercress or spinach.  Many cultures around the world incorporate purslane into their cooking.  Purslane is used raw in salads, baked like spinach in pastries, fried stems with feta, stewed in soups, pickled, and super juicing.  The pectin in purslane provides it with a natural thickening ability for smoothies, soups, and stews.

I eat it raw in salads.  Please comment how you like to consume the amazing Purslane!!