Phytochemical Properties and Therapeutic Applications of Portulaca Oleracea
Summary
Portulaca oleracea, commonly known as purslane, is a succulent annual herb prized for its rich array of bioactive compounds and longstanding use in traditional medicine. Phytochemical investigations have revealed a diverse profile of flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, polysaccharides, sterols and omega-3 fatty acids. These constituents confer potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, hepatoprotective and antidiabetic properties. The antioxidant activity is largely attributed to high levels of phenolic acids and flavonoid glycosides, which scavenge free radicals and modulate redox balance. Polysaccharides and alkaloids have been implicated in immunomodulation and glycaemic control, while terpenoids and sterols contribute to membrane stability and cholesterol homeostasis. Collectively, these phytochemicals act on multiple molecular pathways, including inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines, activation of AMP-activated protein kinase and enhancement of endothelial nitric oxide synthase. Preclinical studies in diabetic and obese animal models have demonstrated amelioration of endothelial dysfunction, reduction of endoplasmic reticulum and oxidative stress, and preservation of vascular integrity. Clinical trials in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease have reported improvements in liver enzymes, metabolic profile and hepatic steatosis following purslane supplementation. The convergence of mechanistic insights and human data underscores the global significance of Portulaca oleracea as a versatile botanical for the prevention and adjunctive treatment of metabolic, cardiovascular and inflammatory disorders.
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Phytochemical Properties and Therapeutic Applications of Portulaca Oleracea publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in phytochemical properties and therapeutic applications of portulaca oleracea across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
Phytochemical: A bioactive compound produced by plants, often with health-promoting properties.
Flavonoid: A class of polyphenolic compounds known for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities.
Polysaccharide: A long-chain carbohydrate that can modulate immune responses and glycaemic control.
Endoplasmic reticulum stress: A cellular condition caused by accumulation of misfolded proteins, leading to inflammation and apoptosis.
Oxidative stress: An imbalance between reactive oxygen species production and antioxidant defences, resulting in cellular damage.
AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK): An energy-sensing enzyme that regulates metabolism and promotes vascular health.
Endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS): An enzyme in vascular endothelium that produces nitric oxide, a key mediator of vasodilation.
References
- Portulaca Oleracea L. (Purslane) Extract Protects Endothelial Function by Reducing Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress and Oxidative Stress through AMPK Activation in Diabetic Obese Mice. Antioxidants (2023).
- Effects of Portulaca oleracea (purslane) on liver function tests, metabolic profile, oxidative stress and inflammatory biomarkers in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: a randomized, double-blind clinical trial. Frontiers in Nutrition (2024).
- Portulaca oleracea L.: A Review of Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Effects. BioMed Research International (2015).
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