Purslane (Portulaca oleracea) and postpartum hemorrhage: A Review Aarticle

Background and Aim: Postpartum hemorrhage(PPH) is the cause of 25% of maternal deaths in developing countries. The results of the studies indicate the effective role of herbal products in the control of PPH. One of these plants is portulaca oleracea, which is recognized as an elixir by the World Health Organization. The present study reviews the role of Portulaca oleracea in control of PPH.Methods: At ISI, Pub Med ،Science Direct ،Google Scholar ،Scopus ،Iranmedex and Magiran databases, we examined 34 studies conducted in the years 1961-2021 regarding the effect of Portulaca oleracea on PPH.Findings: Portulaca oleracea is described as the "top food of the future" because it is a rich source of antioxidants, vitamins A, C and E, beta-carotene, omega-3 fatty acids and other essential amino acids. Evidence of the effectiveness of this plant in controlling postpartum hemorrhage is included anti-estrogenic properties, effective in the production and secretion of cytokines, synthesis of prostaglandins, reduction of nitric oxide and its tonic effect on uterine muscles. No toxicity or side effects have been reported.Conclusion: Due to the anti-estrogenic and tonic effects of portulaca oleracea is recommended, Clinical research should be done to use this plant to control postpartum hemorrhage.