A common weed found in many gardens and sidewalks may hold the key to improving liver health and mood. Researchers have been studying the effects of purslane, a succulent-leafed plant, on adults with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
The results of a 2026 clinical trial, published in the journal Health Science Reports, show that purslane extract can reduce feelings of stress and low mood in participants. The trial found that participants who received purslane extract had improved weight measurements and reduced depression, anxiety, and stress scores compared to those who received a placebo.
Researchers noted that psychological wellbeing plays a significant role in liver disease recovery, as chronic stress and mood disorders can worsen metabolic dysfunction. The study suggests that purslane may be a useful addition to treatment plans for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
A separate trial published in 2024 in Frontiers in Nutrition found that purslane extract can decrease liver stiffness and fat buildup in the liver. They gave participants 700 milligrams of purslane extract daily for eight weeks and found significant improvements in liver health.
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A meta-analysis of ten trials on purslane and metabolic markers found consistent improvements in body weight and lipid profiles. The combined data from these studies paint a coherent picture of purslane’s potential benefits for liver health and mood.
Purslane is a wild plant that grows across most of the United States and can be easily incorporated into one’s diet. It can be foraged from untreated lawns or garden beds and added to salads or sautéed like spinach.
The leaves of the purslane plant have a mild tartness and pair well with tomatoes, cucumber, and a simple vinaigrette. Purslane can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to sautéed sides, and is a good source of alpha-linolenic acid, an anti-inflammatory compound.
While purslane shows promise for improving liver health and mood, it is essential to note that fatty liver disease is a complex condition. Insulin resistance, chronic inflammation, and toxin exposure all contribute to the development of fatty liver disease, and purslane alone may not be enough to address these underlying issues.
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The researchers recommend a complex approach to improve liver health, including diet and lifestyle changes.
Purslane is a simple and accessible way to support liver health, but it should be used in conjunction with other approaches to address the underlying causes of fatty liver disease. By incorporating purslane into one’s diet and lifestyle, individuals may be able to improve their liver health and overall wellbeing.
It is a good source.
