Summer, especially the three dog days, is a season when various wild vegetables grow vigorously, and purslane is one of them. Purslane is also one of the most eaten wild vegetables in childhood. During this season, people pick some to make bread, mix with noodles, steam, make dumplings, cook porridge, and mix with cold dishes. Purslane is not only delicious but also very nutritious, with many health benefits, hence it is also known as the “king of wild vegetables.”
So, what are the health benefits of regularly eating this “king of wild vegetables” during the dog days of summer?
1. Liver cooling
During the hot weather of the dog days, many people are prone to getting overheated. Eating purslane can not only taste good but also has a strong effect on clearing liver heat. In traditional Chinese medicine, purslane is cool and can clear heat from the heart, liver, and intestines. It enters the liver meridian to cool the blood and lower liver fire.
2. Blood pressure reduction
Purslane contains a large amount of potassium ions, which can directly act on our blood vessel walls, effectively dilating blood vessels and reducing the thickening of arterial walls. People with high blood pressure can often eat purslane to protect blood vessel elasticity, reducing the risk of high blood pressure and stroke.
3. Blood sugar reduction
Boiling purslane can inhibit the secretion of adrenaline in the body. Increased adrenaline secretion can promote insulin secretion, regulate internal sugar metabolism processes, and therefore lower blood sugar levels.
4. Weight loss
Purslane is rich in beta-carotene, Vitamin A, calcium, and phosphorus, and it is a low-calorie food. Consuming it during weight loss can help in slimming down!
