07 Dec 2016 --- A new study has confirmed the anti-diabetic properties of the purslane herb extract Portulaca oleracea L. The study examined the mode of action of selected substances with potential to mimic insulin activity.Researchers at the University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria, Wels, led by Julian Weghuber, PhD, investigated extracts prepared from seven different plants reported to exhibit anti-diabetic effects via GLUT4 (glucose transporter protein type 4) translocation-inducing properties. Induction of GLUT4 translocation without insulin is considered a key aspect to decrease elevated blood glucose levels in persons with diabetes.