The Fish Oil Plant

55

By Jonathan T Cook

The purslane plant is a delicious and nutritious garden volunteer often mistaken for a pesky weed.
The purslane plant is a delicious and nutritious garden volunteer often mistaken for a pesky weed.
Source: photo by Jonathan Cook

Let this weed grow . . . and eat it often

Here is a picture of a seriously fresh and delicious weed.

This is not something you need to plant, but when it is eaten fresh it provides some of the best nutrients that can be grown in any crop.

Purslane has been show to contain large mounts of Omega-3 fatty acids, as well as other Omegas. It is high in vitamin A and other vitamins and minerals. For those who'd rather not splurge on fish oil, a cup of purslane can fill the need for free. Best of all, there is no need for planting.

Purslane tends to grow rampant beginning in June. The first leaves can get to be about the size of a nickel, and they are very easy to pick in bunches. Just be sure to leave a piece of the stem on the ground so purslane can keep growing. Because of the high Omega-3 content, any part of the plant can produce seed when broken off from the root.

Purslane adds a succulent bite to every salad or veggie side. The flavor contains a hint of lemony freshness and is somewhat like parsley, but juicier.

For more information see Drugs.com.


Comments

javaoverride profile image

javaoverride 7 months ago

thanks for the info i wil have to add this weed to my hub "fat fighting foods"

PiaC profile image

PiaC Level 3 Commenter 7 months ago

I have heard quite a bit about Purslane, but had not realized it was quite so high in Omega 3. Is it a vegetable that can be cooked, or should I eat it only as a salad?

Jonathan T Cook profile image

Jonathan T Cook Hub Author 7 months ago

I eat it raw and it is delicious. I do not recommend cooking becuase it may lose nutrients. Also, it's that fresh snap that is part of its appeal.

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