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The Health Benefits of Common Purslane – Jamaica’s Overlooked Superplant
by Wellesley Gayle
(Jamaica)
Here in Jamaica, some of the most powerful plants grow right under our feet—literally. One of them is this, above, the 👆Common Purslane, a plant that many overlook or pull up as a weed. But as I recently explored with Ms. Celia in the hills of Kempshot, this little plant is packed with health benefits.
I featured it in a recent YouTube video, and trust me—by the time you finish learning about it, you’ll be seeing it with new eyes. But for now, let me break down why this “ordinary” plant might just be one of the healthiest greens you’ll ever come across.
🌿 What Is Purslane?
Portulaca oleracea is a low-growing leafy plant with thick, fleshy leaves and a mild, slightly tangy taste. It shows up all over—between crops, in gardens, even along the roadside. While many people treat it like a weed, this humble plant is considered a superfood in many parts of the world.
It’s also known as Verdolaga in some places and has quietly earned a reputation for its impressive nutritional profile.
💪 Top Health Benefits of Common Purslane
✅ 1. High in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Purslane actually has more omega-3s than any other leafy vegetable. Omega-3 is known to support heart health, reduce inflammation, and boost brain function.
✅ 2. Rich in Antioxidants
This plant is loaded with vitamins A, C, and E—some of the most powerful antioxidants you can get naturally. These help fight cell damage, improve your immune system, and support healthy skin.
✅ 3. Supports Digestive Health
Thanks to its natural mucilage (a gel-like substance), purslane is known to soothe the stomach. It may help with conditions like ulcers or digestive upset.
✅ 4. Good for the Skin
Purslane has been used in traditional medicine for skin conditions like burns, rashes, and eczema. Its anti-inflammatory nature helps calm irritated skin.
✅ 5. Helps Regulate Blood Sugar
Some early studies suggest that purslane may help manage blood sugar levels, making it potentially helpful for those with diabetes or pre-diabetes.
✅ 6. Mineral-Rich
Purslane is a great source of important minerals like magnesium, iron, calcium, and potassium—nutrients that support bone, muscle, and nerve health.
🥗 How to Use Purslane
You can enjoy purslane:
- Raw in salads
- Lightly steamed or sautéed like callaloo
- Steeped as a herbal tea
- Or even blended into green juices
Be sure to pick it from clean areas and wash it thoroughly before use.
It’s amazing what’s growing naturally around us. Sometimes we don’t even realize the healing plants we walk past every day. Common purslane is one of those gems—nutritious, accessible, and deeply rooted in nature’s wisdom.
▶️ Watch the Full Purslane Video on YouTube
Want to see purslane up close and hear directly from the farmer?Watch the full video here:👉 https://youtu.be/bDXadQSsXJI
And, there's even more! Be sure to check out my books here to learn even more intriguing stuff about Jamaica!
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About The Author
A patriotic Jamaican who adores its culture, Wellesley has been using this medium to share what he calls 'the uniqueness of Jamaica with the world' since April 2007.
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