What are the benefits of eating purslane?

The purslane, also known as portulaca oleracea L., is an edible plant that is often added to various typical dishes in Mexican cuisine, as it adds a special touch to any recipe. Besides being very tasty, purslane is also very nutritious; here we tell you all about the health benefits it provides. According to the Secretariat of Agriculture and Rural Development, purslane has a great number of benefits, so it is important to include it in your diet. What are the benefits of purslane? This edible plant is an important source of vitamins A, B, and C, although it is also rich in minerals such as iron, potassium, magnesium, and calcium. Moreover, it contains 92% water and has very few calories, making purslane a perfect ingredient for soups, salads, and stews. Vitamins present in purslaneVitamin A: It is essential for the formation and proper functioning of teeth, bone and soft tissues, as well as for mucous membranes and skin. Vitamin B: It is indispensable for the proper growth and development of the human body and also helps in the production of red blood cells. Vitamin C: It is an important antioxidant, which is beneficial for teeth and gums. Additionally, this vitamin helps absorb iron and aids in wound healing. Minerals present in purslaneIron: It helps in the production of hemoglobin and myoglobin, which help transport and store oxygen in the body. Potassium: This mineral helps nutrients reach cells, the proper functioning of nerves, muscle contraction, and maintaining a stable heart rate. Magnesium: It is essential for the proper functioning of muscles and nerves, helps keep the immune system healthy, keeps our bones strong, and adjusts blood glucose levels. Calcium: This mineral is very important for health, as it helps keep bones and teeth healthy and strong. Are purslanes rich in omegas?On the other hand, experts are still exploring the many properties of this plant, as it seems that it is also rich in omegas. For its part, Conabio indicates that purslane has the highest content of antioxidants and omega 3 fatty acids of all green vegetables, therefore, it is an excellent idea to increase its consumption. Medicinal uses of purslaneAccording to experts, purslane can also be used to treat intestinal infections, constipation, and against intestinal parasites. The University of Texas at El Paso notes that purslane is used to treat vitamin C deficiency and to address diseases of the lungs, kidneys, and liver. In the case of purslane seeds, the university has reported that they can decrease glucose levels in the blood and have shown cytotoxicity against certain types of cancer cells. Curious facts about purslane*People would hang purslane branches as an amulet to ward off evil spirits in the Roman Empire. *It is said that Persian doctors brought purslane to the West during the Renaissance. *Although in Mexico and some Mediterranean countries it is considered an edible plant rich in vitamins and minerals, in the United States it is considered a weed. *The states that produce purslane are the State of Mexico, Morelos, Mexico City, and Baja California.