The Effect of Purslane (Portulaca oleracea) on Anthropometric and Lipid Parameters: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis

Global health challenges such as metabolic syndrome, obesity, and nonalcoholic fatty syndrome are linked with chronic disease. Purslane ( Portulaca oleracea ), a nutrient‐rich plant with bioactive compounds, shows promise for metabolic health improvement. This meta‐analysis evaluated randomized clinical trials assessing the effects of purslane supplementation on body weight, BMI, waist circumference, and lipid profiles. A comprehensive literature search was conducted, 10 articles extracted from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases from inception to March 2025. This meta‐analysis included randomized clinical trials that investigated the effects of purslane supplementation on body weight, BMI, waist circumference, and lipid profile. Data were analyzed using a random‐effects model and reported as weighted mean differences (WMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were also performed. The quality of studies was evaluated using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. The meta‐analyses were conducted with subgroups based on dosage and treatment duration. Purslane supplementation significantly reduces body weight (WMD −1.7 kg, p = < 0.003) and BMI (−0.6, p = < 0.04). For lipid profile improvement, higher dosages of > 1 g/day administered for shorter durations (< 12 weeks) were more effective, particularly in reducing triglycerides (WMD −15.8 mg/dL, p = 0.009) and LDL (WMD −6.2 mg/dL, p = 0.003). Purslane supplements exhibited efficacy in weight control and enhancement of lipid profiles in the general population when administered at higher dosages and for shorter treatment periods. Further research is required to substantiate these findings and offer customized recommendations. These studies could examine different dosages over extended follow‐up periods to yield comprehensive data on optimal dosages and treatment duration.