Many Confuse This Plant with a Weed, But It’s Actually Full of Surprising Health Benefits | April 5, 2025

Purslane: The Nutrient-Packed “Longevity Weed” You Should Know About

Purslane (Portulaca oleracea) is a common plant found all across the United States—and it’s more than just a garden weed. Also known as pigweed, little hogweed, or fatweed, this succulent has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, especially in Chinese practices, where it’s famously called “the vegetable for long life.”

Beyond its medicinal roots, it’s also a well-loved herb in Asia and throughout the Mediterranean. Purslane is not only easy to grow, but it’s also loaded with essential nutrients that support overall health.

Packed With Nutrients

Purslane is an impressively nutrient-dense plant. It’s rich in:

• Vitamins A, C, and E
• Calcium, magnesium, potassium, iron, and manganese
• Small amounts of folate, phosphorus, copper, and B-complex vitamins (B1, B2, B3)

With about 93% water content, purslane is also low in calories—making it an excellent choice for those looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor or versatility.

A Plant-Based Source of Omega-3s

Most people associate omega-3 fatty acids with fatty fish like salmon, but purslane is an impressive plant-based source of both ALA and EPA—two key forms of omega-3s.

• ALA (alpha-linolenic acid) is found in many leafy greens, but purslane contains 5 to 7 times more than spinach.
• EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) is typically found in animal products and is rarely found in land plants—making purslane especially unique.

These fatty acids are vital for heart, brain, and cellular health, and the body can’t produce them on its own, so getting them from food is key.

Loaded With Antioxidants

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