You pull weeds from your garden every weekend, frustrated by the stubborn little plants that keep popping up no matter what you do. One of them — that low-growing succulent with thick leaves and reddish stems — seems impossible to eradicate, wasting your time and energy while your prized veggies struggle. What if that “pesky weed” was actually one of the most nutrient-packed greens on the planet, quietly offering benefits most people pay premium prices for at health stores? Keep reading, because by the end of this article, you’ll discover a simple garden hack that could transform your daily meals — and it starts right under your feet.
From Hated Weed to Celebrated Superfood
Purslane (Portulaca oleracea), also called verdolaga or pigweed in some regions, has been misunderstood for generations. Gardeners yank it out without a second thought, yet ancient cultures — from India to the Mediterranean — prized it as food and medicine.
Mahatma Gandhi reportedly favored it, and it’s been used for centuries in traditional dishes worldwide. Today, research published in journals like Scientifica and Journal of Medicinal Food highlights why this resilient plant is making a massive comeback among nutritionists and chefs.
But that’s just the beginning…
8 Irresistible Reasons to Start Growing (and Eating) Purslane Today
Ready to see why wellness experts are calling purslane a true superfood? Here are eight science-backed reasons that might just convince you to let it thrive in your garden.
1. One of the Best Plant-Based Sources of Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Most people associate omega-3s with fish oil, but purslane stands out as one of the richest vegetable sources of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) — a type of omega-3.
Studies, including one from the University of Simón Bolívar, show purslane contains more ALA than spinach and many other greens. This healthy fat supports:
- Balanced inflammation response in the body
- Heart and cardiovascular wellness
- Brain function and daily cognitive sharpness
Perfect for vegetarians, vegans, or anyone looking to diversify their omega-3 intake naturally.
