Often dismissed as a pesky garden weed, purslane (Portulaca oleracea) is quietly one of the most nutritious plants on the planet.
While it creeps through sidewalk cracks and garden beds, this succulent green has been a staple in traditional diets across the Mediterranean, Asia, and Mexico for thousands of years — prized not just for its crisp, slightly tangy flavor, but for its extraordinary health benefits.
Now, modern science is catching up — and the results are astonishing.
Eating purslane every day isn’t just a quirky health trend.
It’s a nutritional upgrade that can transform your heart, brain, skin, digestion, and more.
Let’s explore what really happens to your body when you make this humble “weed” a daily habit.
🌿 1. Your Heart Gets a Natural Omega-3 Boost
Most plant-based foods are low in omega-3 fatty acids — but purslane is the exception.
It’s the richest leafy green source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) — a plant-based omega-3 essential for heart health.
Daily benefits:
Reduces inflammation in blood vessels
Lowers triglycerides and LDL cholesterol
Helps prevent heart disease and stroke
In fact, 100g of raw purslane contains more omega-3s than many types of fish — making it a superfood for vegetarians and vegans.
🌞 2. Your Skin Glows with Youthful Radiance
Purslane is packed with vitamin A, vitamin C, and antioxidants — the holy trinity of skin health.
Here’s how it transforms your complexion:
