Purslane is a wild, edible flower plant that grows around the world. According to Dr. Simopoulos et. al. in their article "Purslane: A Plant Source of Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Melatonin" in the "Journal of Pineal Research," 2005, purslane contains a relatively high level of melatonin, a hormone also made in the brain that sets the body clock and controls sleep cycles.
Melatonin-containing supplements and herbs are generally safe. However, MayoClinic.com recommends avoiding alcohol when using melatonin. Side effects are rare but can include such symptoms as dizziness, headache or nausea.
Use of Purslane in Food
Fresh purslane is crisp and tangy, low in calories and high in vitamins A and C. The plant is an ingredient in Mediterranean soups and salads. In Russia, it is dried and canned, and in Mexico it is used in omelets, soups and other dishes.
Insomnia
Because it contains melatonin, eating purslane near bedtime may help with insomnia, or difficulty falling asleep. According to Medline Plus, taking melatonin at night may shorten the time that it takes a person to fall asleep.
Seasonal Affective Disorder
Eating purslane in the afternoon may help with seasonal affective disorder, also called SAD. The National Institute of Mental Health indicates that SAD is caused when body rhythms become unsynchronized and that this is due to a drop in melatonin. According to Medline Plus, the symptoms of SAD include changes in mood and sleep behavior that occur when the days shorten in winter.
Jet Lag
Purslane may also help relieve the symptoms of jet lag following a trip across time zones. MayoClinic.com indicates that use of melatonin is an effective treatment for jet lag when taken by travelers about 20 minutes before bedtime.
References
- Journal of Pineal Research, 2005: Purslane: A Plant Source of Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Melatonin
- Texas A&M Cooperative Extension: Big, Beautiful Purslane
- National Institute of Mental Health: Melatonin and Seasonal Affective Disorder
- Medline Plus: Seasonal Affective Disorder
- Mayo Clinic.com: Jet Lag Disorder
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