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Michael Schuneman, DC
I was doing some research for a presentation that I am doing and I was looking up purslane (Portulaca oleracea). I was looking in The HomeGrown Herbalist Guide to Medicinal Weeds. It stated that it was not safe to use during pregnancy. That seemed rather odd to me since I had never heard that mentioned before. I did a real quick search to see if I could find any references for it not being safe during pregnancy or to find a reason why. I did not find anything in the few minutes I was looking so I thought I would ask here.
So, is purslane safe during pregnancy? And if so, there must be a typo in The HomeGrown Herbalist Guide to Medicinal Weeds. Thanks!
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Dr. Patrick Jones
There have been several studies on purslane flavenoids affecting implantation and miscarriage. Some of the studies show no issues. Some show some issues. The jury is still out. When that’s the case with questions of pregnancy safety and herbs, I err on the side of caution.
Don't use herbs or combine herbs with medications or use them during lactation or pregnancy without talking with your healthcare provider.
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Thanks for the response! I had gotten those books on herbal/drug interactions you recommended and they finally came in the mail shortly after I posted my question. In those, it seemed to indicate that yes it was back and forth on the studies but that just eating purslane as food there have not been any reported problems during pregnancy. Are you aware of any reports of problems from just eating purslane? Thanks!
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As you say, the studies aren’t all on the same page. In those cases, I err on the side of caution. I don’t suppose nibbling a little purslane would be an issue. But it doesn’t do anything medicinally that others don’t do as well or better during pregnancy.
Don't use herbs or combine herbs with medications or use them during lactation or pregnancy without talking with your healthcare provider.
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