Study on Portulaca Oleracea Native Species as Vegetal Source of Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acids

Abstract

Fatty grass, grasita or purslane (Portulaca oleracea L.) is an important plant identified as a natural weed in field crops and lawns. Purslane is widespread worldwide and is popular as edible plants in many areas of Europe, Asia and the Mediterranean region. This plant possesses mucilaginous substances of great medicinal importance. It is a rich source of potassium, magnesium and calcium and has the potential to be used as a vegetal source of omega-3 and omega-6. It is very good as a source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) and contains the highest amount compared to any other green leafy vegetables. It also contains significant amounts of alpha-tocopherol and ascorbic acid, as well as an increased content of oxalate in fresh leaves. The antioxidant value and nutritional content of purslane are important for human consumption. It reveals a huge nutritional potential and indicates the potential for future use of this plant in food industry, dietary supplements, drugs, cosmetics and products for body care.