Purslane has a binomial name of Portulaca oleracea. Typically found in growing zones 8-10, It is an annual herb is easily grown and can be propagated by seed or cutting and once it is sprouted you can forget about it as it is used to taking care of itself. It likes clear ground with partial to full sun and does not have a soil preference per se but it tends to like drier soil. When propagating never cover the seed or cutting with soil as it needs light in order to germinate. (Robinson) Harvest regularly so as to avoid its invasive personality and if needing
to control it harvest before it flowers.
This herb is a huge source of non-meat or fish Omega 3 fatty acids, contrary to the fact it is a "fatty acid" it is an essential need for the body and must not be confused with animal fats. Purslane is easy to grow and is so nutrient rich that it contains six times more vitamin E than spinach and seven times more beta carotene than carrots. As if this was not impressive enough it contains 15 times more Omega 3 than iceberg lettuce! (Robinson) Deficiencies in Omega 3s have been linked to heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer's.
Here are some of the vitamins and minerals found in Purslane:
- C
- E
- Magnesium
- Riboflavin
- Potassium
- Phosphorus
- Beta carotene
- Omega-3
Other wonderful therapeutic actions of purslane are:
- Antibacterial
- ,Antioxidant
- Anti-inflammatory
- Anti-tumor
- Anti-fungal
- Neuroprotective
- Hepatoprotective
- Bronchodilator
In the kitchen:
As far as the taste goes it is a bit crunchy with a slight lemon flavor, it is similar to watercress or spinach, and it can substitute for spinach in many recipes. Young, raw leaves and stems are tender and are good in salads and sandwiches. They can also be lightly steamed or stir-fried. Purslane has a high level of pectin (known to lower cholesterol) like apples and is used to thickens soups and stews. (Robinson)
Citations
Petersen, D. (2017). HERB 201: Herbal Studies (18th ed.). Portland, OR: American College of
Healthcare Sciences.
Robinson, Frances. "Power-Packed Purslane - Organic Gardening." Mother Earth News, May 2005, www.motherearthnews.com/organic-gardening/power-packed-purslane-
zmaz05amzsel. Accessed 13 June 2018.
Rutgers University. "Purslane." Rutgers New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station (Rutgers NJAES), njaes.rutgers.edu/weeds/weed.php?purslane. Accessed 12 June 2018.
+This information is not intended to treat or cure any illness or disease and you must see a physician if you have a medical issue. One final note on any of the medicinal weeds, never wild harvest unless you know which plant you are harvesting and never harvest from the side of a road as they absorb the toxic substances from vehicles such as lead and cadmium. +
Add comment
Comments