Purslane

Purslane

Portulaca oleracea

South Korea

Purslane originates from the Indies and was introduced to Europe by the English in the 16th century. It is a succulent plant with thick, fleshy leaves and stalks and one of the oldest plants in popular flora which is used in salads, as a condiment and also for its medicinal properties. The gardener of Louis XIV considered it a ‘healthy’ salad, a belief later confirmed scientifically after the discovery of its high content of Omega 3 fatty acids. In various fields it is used for its anti-inflammatory, soothing and purifying properties. In cosmetics, purslane extract helps to soothe the skin.