Ameliorative effects of Portulaca oleracea L. (purslane) on the metabolic syndrome: A review

Ethnopharmacological relevance: The metabolic syndrome, which comprises hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, abdominal obesity, and hypertension, is a worldwide problem. This disorder is a significant risk factor for insulin resistance, diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease incidence, and mortality. The value of herbs and natural products in the treatment of human ailments has been documented in several inquiries. An annual herbaceous plant called Portulaca oleracea L. (purslane) is used both as a traditional medicine and an edible plant to treat various ailments including gastrointestinal diseases and liver inflammation. Purslane contains a variety of sec-ondary metabolites such as organic acids, flavonoids, terpenoids, and alkaloids.Aim of the study: In the current work, our team aims to shed light on the potential efficacy of purslane and its main components in treating metabolic syndrome and its complications.Study design: Scopus, Google Scholar, and PubMed databases have been used to gather the most relevant in vitro, in vivo studies, and clinical trials from the time of inception up to February 2022.Results: The effects of purslane on metabolism are among its most significant pharmacological properties. In patients with metabolic syndrome, purslane could significantly lower blood glucose and balance lipid profiles. This indicates that purslane might have a potential role in the management of metabolic syndrome through different underlying mechanisms including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-hyperlipidemic, anti-obesity, and antidiabetic. Conclusion: According to previous investigations, purslane can control metabolic syndrome and its complications. However, further preclinical and clinical studies are required to approve the advantageous effects of purslane on metabolic syndrome.

Automated summary

Purslane has potential therapeutic efficacy in treating metabolic syndrome and its complications through different mechanisms such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hypolipidemic, anti-obesity, and anti-diabetic effects.