One gardener calls the Purslane she grows her “stealth vegetable” because it is attractive enough to put in hangers as decorative plants, fooling all comers into thinking it’s merely decorative. The plant, which hails from India and Persia and has lovely flowers that can bloom in an array of colors. So, viewer’s that don’t assume that it has health or edible advantages should perhaps be forgiven.
Nonetheless, Purslane has tender, juicy, thick leaves and flowers, all of which are entirely edible. Use it in place of spinach, in salads, even plucked from the source. From a medicinal perspective Purslane has been shown to offer substantive value in the case of cataracts and macular degeneration. It aids in regulating cholesterol and preventing bone loss and osteoporosis. It promotes good circulation and weight loss and may even prevent certain types of cancer.
Wildcrafters should know that Purslane can be confused with other plants. However, careful examination of the plant, including the juice, which will be clear, can aid in a correct identification.
Besides Purslane’s ornamental and health benefits, the plant is also highly nutritive, boasting an array of vitamins and minerals, even Omega-3 fatty acids, which are much more common in fish. Comfrey, another plant with a long history of medicinal use, particularly for respiratory conditions, is also a good item to grow. Both plants are useful as livestock feed.
Key Takeaways:
- Purslane is a veritable fount of vitamins and minerals, even a source of Omega 3 fatty acids.
- Purslane has tender, juicy, thick stems and flowers, which come in a variety of colors, all of which are edible.
- Purslane is useful for promoting circulation and weight-loss, as well preventing osteoporosis and regulating cholesterol levels.
“The beauty of the flowers makes people think that this easily available variety is only useful as a decorative plant. It works well in hanging baskets. You might see this plant growing alongside the highway or you may already have this plant in your yard and consider it to be just a weed.”
Read more: http://www.theprepperjournal.com/2018/07/12/stealth-vegetables-and-vitamins-at-your-disposal/
Photo By ZooFari – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link