Common purslane (Portulaca oleracea) — also known as pigweed, fatweed, pursley, pussley, verdolagas and wild portulaca — is the most frequently reported “weed” species in the world. It can grow anywhere that has at least a two-month growing season and is generally found in meadows, sidewalks and lawns. You won’t find it in the grocery store, but if you have a savvy local farmer, chances are you might find it at the farmer’s market.
Purslane is somewhat crunchy and has a slight lemony taste. Slightly like watercress or spinach, it can substitute for spinach in many recipes. Young, raw leaves and stems are tender and are good in salads, smoothies, tea, sandwiches or soups. These babies are going in my salad for dinner!
As well as being a nutritional powerhouse (vitamins A, E, C, magnesium, calcium and potassium), Purslane counters depression. It is one of the five herbs rich in antidepressant substances. (Lettuce, amaranth greens, lamb’s quarters greens, and watercress are the other four) Purslane is a superior source of calcium, magnesium, potassium, phenylalanine, and tryptophan, all of which are known to moderate the effects of depressive brain chemicals.
Plant Purslane by your door or garden gate for protection. Put some under your pillow to promote good sleep. A tea made with purslane is said to relieve headaches. It’s also well known to bring down fevers, reduce inflammation and sore throats.
Mindful Hearth 