My dad has always loved gardening. Ever since I was little I remember him taking us outside to help him plant seeds, water the sprouting greens and weed in between the rows of vegetable plants. Weeding was one of the most important jobs, he told us, because we had to distinguish between his valuable produce and an obnoxious weed to be sure we didn’t uproot anything delicious.

Whether you have your own garden or not, there is one weed that everyone should learn to recognize and allow to grow, because its benefits are simply and unexpectedly incredible.

10 Amazing Benefits Of Purslane

This weed is called purslane. Like most weeds, it grows and spreads extremely fast, which is actually lucky for you, because once you hear all the ways this weed can benefit you, you’ll be wanting to get your hands on as much of it as possible!

1. Antioxidants

Purslane is an excellent source of antioxidants, which are great for the immune system. Antioxidants can help prevent sickness and disease, slow aging and protect against cell damage. (1)

2. Potassium

Adding purslane to your diet can help you get an extra boost of potassium. Potassium is great for keeping your bones healthy and strong, keeping your blood glucose under control and treating and preventing kidney stones. (1, 2)

3. Keep Those Bones Healthy

The nutritious value of this weed just keeps getting better and better! Calcium and magnesium are crucial to have in your diet in order to keep your bones, teeth and muscles in good, healthy condition, and since purslane has both, it’s got you covered. (1)

4. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Eating fish isn’t the only way to stock up on your omega-3s! Omega-3 fatty acids are helpful in preventing cardiovascular diseases, improving cognitive function and even preventing cancer. (1, 3)

5. Iron

Purslane is a great source of iron, which is helpful for the lungs, muscles, metabolism and cells. In short, your entire body needs and loves it! (1, 4)

6. Improves Sleep

Purslane has been found to contain glutathione and melatonin, which are both helpful in different ways. Glutathione can help protect from cell damage and melatonin can help fight insomnia and improve sleep. (5, 6)

7. Good For The Brain

Research has shown that purslane is great for your brain. It can fight against any developing brain damage and even help prevent Parkinson’s disease. (7)

8. Healthy Skin And Eyes

Purslane is an excellent source of beta carotene, which is an antioxidant that your body converts into vitamin A. Adding this weed to your diet is super healthy for your eyes and skin. (1)

9. Great For Diabetes

Purslane can help combat diabetes in a number of ways. Studies have shown that this plant can help lower blood sugar and keep your cholesterol in check. (8)

10. Liver Health

And last but not least, your liver will love this plant! Purslane can help improve your liver function and protect against any damage. (9)

Conclusion

So if you happen to see this weed lurking around in your yard, don’t kill it! Water it, let it grow and slip it onto your plate for a delicious and nutritious (not to mention completely free) meal!

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