Sunday, July 8, 2012

PURSLANE * Don't Weed It! * the highest vegetable source of Omega-3 #GardenCuizine #GardenChat


Purslane
A weed you don't want to pull out in your garden. After pulling out our mizuna greens after they bolted and went to seed, I was ready to plant something else in their spot. Space is at a premium in our backyard home garden. I noticed a green mat of Purslane (Portulaca oleracea) seedlings had appeared in the area, as if overnight. So guess what was going to be growing in that spot? You guessed it - the purslane stays!

Purslane Nutrition

Many clinical studies have confirmed that Purslane is a nutritious food. Purslane is the highest vegetable source of Omega-3 fatty acids. Other plant sources of Omega-3's include chia seeds, flaxseeds, walnuts, canola oil, edamame and soybeans. Purslane is also rich in antioxidants, Vitamins E and C, beta carotene and other important nutrients.

Purslane can be harvested, rinsed and added to garden salads or added as an accent green to any imaginable entree or side dish. Purslane is one of those greens you probably won't find in your grocery store. Look for it in your yard and garden, you just may have it growing. 

Purslane, the healthiest weed in your yard, is just another reason NOT to invest in weed killers. Organic, is always the best way to go. It's better for you, the wildlife and the environment.

Happy Gardening! 
Related Links
Purslane, an Edible and Beneficial Garden Weed by Darius Van d'Rhys
Purslane, Weed It or Eat It?
Ask the Expert, Omega-3 Fatty Acids Harvard School of Public Health
Chia vs Flax Omega-3 Nutrition

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