INTRODUCTION:
Purslane Seeds come from the plant Portulaca oleracea, a succulent leafy green known for its incredible nutritional and medicinal properties. Widely used in traditional and herbal medicine systems such as Unani, Ayurveda, and Tibb-e-Nabawi, these small, black, and glossy seeds are valued for their cooling and detoxifying effects on the body.
English: Purslane Seeds
Urdu: تُخمِ خُرفہ (Tukhm-e-Khurfa)
Arabic: بذور الرجلة (Buthoor al-Rajla)
Hindi: कुलफा के बीज (Kulfa ke Beej)
Punjabi: خرفہ (Khurfa)
Persian (Farsi): تخم خرفه (Tokhm-e-Khorfeh)
Turkish: Semizotu tohumu
Bengali: বরফার বীজ (Barfar Beej)
Tamil: பருப்பு கீரை விதை (Paruppu keerai vidhai)
Malay/Indonesian: Biji Gelinggang
HEALTH BENEFITS:
Omega-3 Fatty Acids:
Purslane has high levels of omega-3s, which benefit heart and artery health.
Antioxidants:
Compounds like Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and glutathione protect cells from damage and may help prevent cancer.
Minerals:
It’s a source of calcium and magnesium, crucial for bone health and the function of nerves and muscles.
Vitamins and Folate:
The plant contains folate, which supports cell division and DNA replication, and other vitamins like A and C.
Heart Health:
Omega-3s can help lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels, supporting overall cardiovascular health.
Blood Sugar Management:
Consuming purslane may help lower fasting blood sugar levels, which is beneficial for managing type 2 diabetes.
Bone and Muscle Health:
The calcium and magnesium content contribute to strong bones, teeth, and proper nerve and muscle function.
Anti-inflammatory & Antioxidant:
Biological functions associated with purslane include anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, helping to reduce oxidative stress.
Growth and Development:
Its richness in folate supports crucial processes like cell division and DNA replication.
Increases good cholesterol:
Studies have also shown that purslane seeds can increase levels of beneficial HDL (“good”) cholesterol.
Reduces inflammation:
The anti-inflammatory effects of purslane’s omega-3s and antioxidants help reduce chronic inflammation, a known risk factor for heart disease.
Improves blood pressure:
Regular consumption of purslane seeds has been shown to significantly reduce blood pressure.
SIDE EFFECTS:
Kidney Stones:
Purslane, and particularly its seeds, is high in oxalates, which can lead to the formation of calcium oxalate crystals and kidney stones in susceptible individuals.
Salt Retention:
The plant is naturally high in water and salt content. Consuming large amounts of purslane can increase salt intake, which is a concern for those on sodium-restricted diets.
Allergic Reactions:
Some people may develop skin irritation or allergic reactions to purslane.
Pregnancy and Lactation:
The safety of consuming purslane seeds during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not established, so extra caution is recommended.
HOW TO USE:
Soaking Method:
Take 1 teaspoon of purslane seeds.
Soak them in a glass of water overnight (8–10 hours).
Drink the water and eat the soaked seeds in the morning on an empty stomach.
This helps with digestion, cooling the body, and relieving constipation.
Boiling Method:
Boil 1 teaspoon of seeds in a cup of water or milk for 5–10 minutes.
Let it cool and drink once or twice a day.
Good for reducing body heat and soothing inflammation.
External Use:
Crush the seeds and make a paste by mixing with a little water.
Apply the paste on skin wounds, burns, or boils to help heal faster.
Tips:
- Start with small amounts to check your body’s reaction.
- Drink plenty of water during the day.
- Consult a doctor if pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medication.
