Welcome to purslane, an herb that is assumed to be mostly anthropogenic (spread by man), extending from North Africa, Southern Europe, the Middle East, and the Indian Subcontinent, to Malesia and Australia.  It is not yet clear how or when it reached North America.

Here are five facts about purslane:

1. Purslane’s little black seeds are often used as tea and included in black tea powder granules used to make herbal drinks.
2. In ancient times it was considered an antimagic herb to be strewn about to protect against evil spirits.
3. Historically, purslane has been considered a cure for lightning blasts or gunpowder burns.
4. In TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine), purslane is considered to Relieve Fire Toxins and is therefore used to treat dysentery, vaginal discharges, and urinary tract infections with blood in the urine.
5. In Europe, it was traditionally thought to cool the liver and therefore to be excellent for treating hot ailments such as headaches, restlessness, or insomnia due to heat.

Purslane is also a culinary herb. Find out more about purslane.