PORTULACAOLERACEA (KHURFA)-WHOLE PLANT: AN UNDERUTILIZED MEDICINAL PLANT WITH PROMISING PHARMACOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES-A REVIEW

Portulacaoleracea L.,commonly known as purslane, is a widely distributed annual succulent plant traditionally used in various folk medicinal systems. Rich in bioactive compounds such as omega-3 fatty acids, flavonoids, alkaloids, vitamins, and minerals, P. oleracea has drawn significant scientific interest for its pharmacological potential. Numerous studies have highlighted its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, neuroprotective, and hepatoprotective properties.Additionally, it has shown promising effects in cardiovascular health and wound healing. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the ethnobotanical uses, phytochemical composition, and diverse therapeutic potentials of Portulacaoleracea, aiming to bridge traditional knowledge with modern pharmacological evidence. The plants safety profile, potential applications in nutraceutical and pharmaceutical industries, and areas requiring further investigation are also discussed. This synthesis underscores P. oleracea as a valuable medicinal resource that merits more attention in clinical and experimental research.