How can you tell the difference between purslane and spurge? Scientists say that the leaves and stems of hairy-stemmed spurge are not a succulent as purslane leaves. Also, purslane doesn’t excrete a milky-white sap when the leaves or stems are broken. (2)
Purslane Pictures
Find below purslane images for easier identification:
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Purslane pictures
Purslane (Weed) Nutrition
The nutritional value of purslane plant is so good for you that the World Health Organization (WHO) described the plant as one of the “most used medicinal plants.”
What is it about purslane weed that makes it so healthy?
The United States Department of Agriculture reports that a 1-oz. (28 g) serving of purslane only contains 6 calories and 1 gram of carbs. This serving of purslane has almost 6 g of vitamin C which is 10% of your recommended daily intake. Purslane leaves also contain vitamin A and B-group vitamins. (3)
More of the nutritional benefits of purslane come from minerals. Studies have shown that purslane is a good source of potassium, magnesium, and calcium. These are important minerals for your blood pressure, a healthy heart, and having strong bones. (4, 5)
One of the health benefits of purslane is the fact that it is a good source of plant-based omega-3 fatty acids. Purslane contains ALA (alpha-linolenic acid) omega-3 which researchers say is necessary for good health and disease prevention. (6)
In order to fully benefit from taking purslane, some people use purslane supplements that come as powder (like this one), capsules (like this one) and tincture. These supplements can be found in health stores or online and contain all the antioxidants such as ascorbic acid, carotenoids, and omega-3 that is found in purslane leaf.
One of the precautions with eating a lot of purslane is its oxalate content. A diet rich in vegetables with high oxalate content such as spinach and purslane can increase your risk of kidney stones. High levels of oxalates can also affect mineral absorption. (7, 8)
At the end of the article, you will learn what to do to reduce the level of oxalates in purslane.
Purslane Benefits
Let’s look in more detail at how to use purslane and how this healthy weed can help boost your health.
You will find out how science backs up the benefits of purslane compounds for treating inflammatory diseases, diabetes, and many other health concerns. (9)
Purslane Plant is a Good Source of Antioxidants
Many of the benefits of including purslane leaves in your diet are due to the fact they contain a number of antioxidants to boost your health.
