Purslane

Best

Antioxidant

Purslane at a glance

  • Rich in vitamins A, C, and E plus the “super antioxidant” glutathione
  • Source of skin-beneficial minerals such as potassium, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids
  • Contains genistein, which helps rejuvenate skin that has become lax/crepey
  • Purslane’s beneficial components address numerous skin concerns, including wrinkles and other signs of ageing
  • Comes from a weed-like succulent plant

Purslane description

Purslane, also known as _Portulaca oleracea_ extract, comes from a weed-like succulent plant. This golden or green-colored plant has skin-soothing properties and is a potent antioxidant thanks to its high amounts of vitamins A (as beta-carotene), C, and E (alpha-tocopherol) as well as other antioxidant compounds such as glutathione. The antioxidants in purslane work to address numerous skin concerns, including wrinkles and other signs of ageing. Purslane is also a very good source of skin-beneficial minerals like potassium, magnesium, calcium, and phosphorous, plus omega-3 fatty acids, amino acids, and hydrating sugars known as polysaccharides. Another beneficial component of purslane is its genistein content, which can help rejuvenate skin that has become lax and crepey. Although not commonly consumed as part of most Western diets, the nutritional profile of this plant ranks it as a true superfood. Ongoing research is consistently showing this plant has remarkable benefits for the skin and body. Recommended usage levels of purslane in skin care ranges from 1–3% of the pure plant and 1–5% if it’s part of a blend. It is not known to be irritating or otherwise problematic for skin, although a formal safety assessment of this plant has yet to be conducted. Fun fact: Purslane is native to India and Persia but is naturally found in regions all over the world including Asia, Africa, America, Europe and Australia. It also has a history of use in Chinese and Korean medicine.

Purslane references

  • Food Chemistry, August 2019, pages 239-245
  • Journal of Pharmacopuncture, March 2019, pages 7-15
  • Antioxidants, August 2017, pages 1-9
  • American Journal of Translational Research, May 2016, pages 2,138-2,148
  • BioMed Research International, January 2015, pages 1-11
  • Journal of Ethnopharmacology, July 2001, pages 171–176; and December 2000, pages 445-451

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.