Arabic Name : Farfaheen, Farfeez, Baqla Hamqaa,
Bengali Name : Baraloniya, Badnuni, Barnunia
English Name : Common Indian Parselane, Garden Purslane,
French Name : Poupier Commun
German Name : Portulak, Burzelkraut, Bürzelkohl, Gelber Portulak
Gujarati Name : Luni, Loni, Moti Luni
Hindi Name : Khursa, Kulfa, Badi Lona
Kannada Name : Dudagorai, Doddagoni Soppu, Lonika
Kashmiri Name : Nuner
Latin name : Portulaca oleracea Linn.
Marathi Name : Kurfah, Ghol
Persian Name : Khurfa
Punjabi Name : Lonak, Chhotalunia, Khurfa
Sanskrit Name : Loni, Lonika, Kozuppa
Urdu Name : Khurfa
Description : The seeds are anthelmintic, antibiotic, antidiarrhoeal, slightly astringent, demulcent, depurative, diuretic, febrifuge, tonic and vermifuge. Used in diseases of the kidney and bladder, as strangury, dysuria, haematuria, gonorrhoea, etc., and of the lungs such as haematemesis, haemoptysis, etc. Also useful in dry coughs and whooping cough.
The leaves are a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids – substances more commonly found in fish oils, which is thought to be important in preventing heart attacks and strengthening the immune system. Purslane is antiinflammatory, improves blood circulation and prevents clotting in the arteries. The benefits of omega-3 fatty acids in the treatment of inflammation and autoimmune disease, including coronary heart disease, were outlined in a paper published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition in 2002. The herb is prescribed for internal use to prevent cardiovascular problems.
The plants high concentrations of antioxidants means that it protects against cancer-causing and degenerative free radical damage – thus also slowing some of the effects of aging. In addition, it may help to regulate blood cholesterol levels.
Recommended Dosage : 3 to 6 g powder of dried whole plant.
Contraindication : This herb is not recommended during pregnancy. Individuals with a history of kidney stones should use Purslane with caution.
