Talinum triangulare

Talinum triangulare, also known as Waterleaf, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Portulacaceae. It is native to the Caribbean, Mexico, South America, and Africa, but has been naturalized in other parts of the world, including Asia and the Pacific Islands.

Description

Talinum triangulare is a small, erect, and succulent perennial plant that can grow up to 1 meter in height. The plant has a thick, fleshy taproot that is white or light brown in color. The leaves are simple, alternate, and usually triangular in shape, hence the name "triangulare". The flowers are small, pink or purple, and borne in terminal clusters.

Cultivation and Uses

Talinum triangulare is a versatile plant that can be grown in a variety of conditions, but it prefers well-drained soil and full sun. It is often grown as a leaf vegetable, especially in West Africa, where it is used in soups and stews. The leaves are rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and calcium. In addition to its culinary uses, Talinum triangulare is also used in traditional medicine. The leaves, roots, and seeds have been used to treat a variety of ailments, including diarrhea, dysentery, and skin diseases.

Research

Recent research has focused on the potential health benefits of Talinum triangulare. Studies have shown that the plant has antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. However, more research is needed to fully understand the potential health benefits and risks of consuming Talinum triangulare.

See Also

• List of leaf vegetables
• Traditional medicine
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin A