Phytochemical screening and pharmaceutical effect of Portulaca oleracea.L

Abstract

Portulaca oleracea L., commonly known as purslane, is a medicinal plant rich in bioactive compounds including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and omega-3 fatty acids. This graduation project aimed to investigate the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of a cream formulated from P. oleracea extract, and to evaluate its novel potential in treating cutaneous warts. Antioxidant activity was assessed using DPPH and FRAP assays, where the extract demonstrated concentration-dependent effects comparable to ascorbic acid. Anti-inflammatory effects were observed through inhibition of human serum albumin denaturation, slightly inferior to diclofenac but still significant. In a clinical evaluation involving 20 participants, the topical application of either fresh plant paste or cream showed gradual but visible improvements in wart symptoms, with faster results from the fresh paste. These findings highlight the plant’s potential not only in oxidative and inflammatory conditions, but also as an innovative natural remedy for viral skin lesions.