In our gardens it is often treated as a simple weed to be eliminated as soon as it appears. Yet the verdolaga, a plant with many virtues, hides many secrets that few know. Find out in detail why it’s time to make room for the greenish in your garden.
A long story: the verdolaga (Portulaca oleracea L.) is more than just a plant, it is also part of our history. Imported by the Romans from the East, it has gradually become an integral part of our gardens. A renowned gardener in the service of Louis XIV, Jean-Baptiste de La Quintinie, was already aware of the nutritional qualities of verdolaga, praising it as “healthy salad”.
Soil bioindicator: did you know that the abundant presence of verdolaga in your garden can tell you a lot about the quality of your soil? In fact, this plant acts as a bioindicator, revealing valuable information about the texture, compactness and possible deficiencies of your soil.
A nutritional treasure: the health benefits of verdolaga are many and varied. Rich in omega-3, this plant is a valuable source of essential nutrients for the brain and helps prevent depression and heart disease. In addition, its high water content makes it an ideal ally for the hydration of cells.
Natural antioxidant: thanks to the richness of vitamins A, C and E, verdolaga offers an effective protection against skin aging and oxidative stress, preserving the youth and vitality of the skin.
Cardiovascular support: by promoting blood clotting and regulating cholesterol levels, verdolaga plays a key role in cardiovascular health, offering natural protection against heart and vascular disease.
Source of essential nutrients: calcium, magnesium, potassium, iron… Verdolaga is rich in these precious nutrients, essential for the proper functioning of the organism, which help to maintain strong bones, a balanced blood pressure and an optimal blood production.
Verdolaga, the ally of sleep: thanks to its ability to promote the production of melatonin, the sleep hormone, verdolaga plays an active role in regulating the sleep-wake cycle, ensuring quiet and refreshing nights.
A culinary ally to discover: in addition to its health benefits, the verdolaga is also renowned for its culinary potential. With its subtle and slightly peppery flavor, it goes perfectly with many recipes, adding a touch of freshness and vitality to salads, soups and other dishes.
