Herb of the Week: Purslane (Portulaca oleracea)

Often overlooked as just another garden weed, Purslane is actually a vibrant and powerful plant with deep roots in healing, nourishment and magick. This low-growing succulent thrives in cracks of sidewalks, gardens, and sunny meadows, reminding us that resilience and abundance often come from the most unexpected places. Its leaves are tender and slightly lemony, making it both a delicious edible green and a potent herbal ally. With a history stretching from ancient folklore to Traditional Chinese Medicine, Purslane bridges the worlds of practical nourishment, holistic healing, and spiritual protection.

Folklore & Magic of Purslane

Purslane has long been considered a humble yet powerful herb, often regarded as a plant of protection and luck. In European folklore, it was carried in the pocket or hung in doorways to ward off evil spirits and bring prosperity. Known as a “weed of fortune,” it was sometimes added to floor washes or charms to create harmony and peace in the home.

In magickal practice, Purslane is associated with:

• Protection – shielding against negative energies and psychic attack.

• Luck & Prosperity – drawing abundance and turning misfortune into opportunity.

• Peace & Harmony – calming conflicts and fostering unity within the home.

• Healing & Resilience – strengthening the body, spirit, and aura.

• Grounding – connecting one to Earth energy and stability.

  
  

Its succulent, grounding nature makes it a perfect ally for spellwork focused on health, abundance, and resilience—especially when combined with kitchen witchery and everyday magick.

Purslane in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

In TCM, Purslane is called Ma Chi Xian (马齿苋), meaning “horse tooth amaranth.” It is considered cooling and sour, associated with the Liver, Stomach, and Large Intestine meridians. Purslane is often used to clear heat, cool the blood, and detoxify the body. It has been traditionally employed for digestive health, skin conditions, and to relieve inflammation. Because of its yin-nourishing properties, it’s also used to restore balance when excess heat disturbs the body.

Medicinal Benefits of Purslane

Modern herbalists recognize Purslane as a powerful healing herb, thanks to its impressive nutrient profile and antioxidant content. Some benefits include:

• Anti-inflammatory properties that support joint and skin health.

• Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, making it supportive for cardiovascular wellness.

• Antimicrobial activity that may help defend the body against certain pathogens.

• Traditionally used to aid digestion and soothe irritation in the gastrointestinal tract.

Nutritional Benefits of Purslane

Don’t be fooled by its reputation as a “weed”—Purslane is a nutrient powerhouse! Its leaves and stems are edible and can be eaten raw or cooked. Nutritional highlights include:

• Omega-3 fatty acids (one of the richest plant sources).

• Vitamins A, C, and E, supporting immune and skin health.

• Magnesium, potassium, and calcium for bone and heart health.

• High water content, making it a refreshing and hydrating summer herb.

Try tossing purslane into salads, blending it into smoothies, or lightly sautéing it as a spinach alternative.

Lesson: Embracing The Everyday Herb

Purslane teaches us to see value in what may seem ordinary or overlooked. Often dismissed as a garden weed, it hides extraordinary healing and nourishing properties. Its lesson is one of humility, abundance, and resilience—reminding us that true magic is often found in the simplest places.

⚠️ Disclaimer & Safety

This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbal remedies, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, on medication, or have underlying health conditions.

Allergy & Safety Note:

Potential Allergies/Precautions: Some individuals may experience digestive discomfort or allergic reactions. Purslane may also interact with certain medications—consult your healthcare provider if unsure.

✨ Want to dive deeper into the healing power of herbs? Explore more in our Herb of the Week series, featuring wisdom from the Healing Plants Oracle Deck, illustrated by pioneering herbalist Elizabeth Blackwell.