Weeds, what you SHOULD know! Purslane!

Purslane has a binomial name of Portulaca oleracea. Typically found in growing zones 8-10, it is an annual herb that is easily grown and can be propagated by seed or cutting, and once it has 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 that 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 thicken soups and stews. (Robinson)

Citations

Petersen, D. (2017). HERB 201: Herbal Studies (18th ed.). Portland, OR: American College of
Healthcare Sciences.

Robinson, F. (2024, October 7). Purslane Omega 3 content – Mother Earth News. Mother Earth News – the Original Guide to Living Wisely. https://www.motherearthnews.com/organic-gardening/power-packed-purslane-zmaz05amzsel/

New Jersey Weed Gallery | Rutgers Cooperative Extension. (n.d.). https://extension.rutgers.edu/weeds?purslane.

+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. +