Benefits of Purslane
2.6.1 Folklore
Purslane in ancient times was looked upon as one of the anti-magic herbs, and strewn around a bed was said to afford protection against evil
spirits24. It was supposed to protect from evil spirits and if carried was supposed to attract love and luck. It was carried by soldiers to protect them in battle. If
laid on the bed, it was believed to protect that person from having nightmares35. It is under the dominion of the moon37 and is supposed to work on the
psychic senses and taken regularly helps develop clairvoyant faculties35. The infusion may be used to clear the third eye and to wash the crystal ball or
scrying mirror35, no doubt a useful tip for our marketing colleagues! Dioscorides says "it reduces the desire to fornicate". In the latter sense, other authors
also mention its anaphrodisiac powers16, including this plant among the "four cold seeds", together with chicory, endive and lettuce. In Ghana it is an