ΑΝΔΡΑΧΝΗ
Portulaca oleracea
(Purslane)
Botanical info:
Purslane is an annual (in the tropics perennial) succulent herb that grows to 40 cm tall, with smooth, reddish, mostly prostrate stems and fleshy waxy leaves. It grows naturally in deteriorated lands and presents an anthropochory distribution. Its native in the north coasts of the Mediterranean Sea, Morocco, Algeria and Egypt. Flowering from June to late winter.
Hippocratic legacy:
a. In Regimen 2:
a. Purslane is described as refrigerant food.
b. In Nature of Women:
a. Purslane is used as poultice.
c. In Diseases of Women 1:
a. As birth promoter.
d. In Diseases of Women 2:
a. As a poultice against uterus bleeding.
Other uses:
The expressed juice, taken while fresh, was said to be good for strangury, and taken with sugar and honey to afford relief for dry coughs, shortness of breath and immoderate thirst, as well as for external application in inflammation and sores. The herb, bruised and applied to the forehead and temple, was said to allay excessive heat, and applied to the eyes to remove inflammation. The juice, with oil of Roses, was recommended for sore mouths and swollen gums and to fasten loose teeth. The seeds, bruised and boiled in wine, were given to children as a vermifuge.