Portulaca oleracea seeds for weight loss

2015-01-09 09:17:59

Childhood obesity is a major concern worldwide, due to the over consumption of energy-rich foods. Purslane (Portulaca oleracea L.) has been studied for antioxidant and heart health promoting effects. In a recent study, it was examined to see if it could help with cholesterol in obese adolescents ⁽¹⁾. It was a triple-blinded randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial. Participants took one capsule of powdered Purslane (500 mg) two times a day for one month, and the control group took an identical lactose capsules. Many health parameters were measured. The results showed that total cholesterol, LDL, and triglycerides showed significant changes over the month, but the results were only significant for LDL and triglycerides. Overall, the authors conclude that Purslane may have positive effects on serum lipids due to its polyphenolic and antioxidant compounds. The herb is well tolerated in the adolescent population.