Chia seed (Salvia hispanica)

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Other names for chia seed

Salvia hispanica Seed
Chia Seed Powder
Chia Oil

Synopsis of chia seed

Chia seed comes from Salvia hispanica, a flowering plant in the mint family Lamiaceae, native to Mexico and Central America. Once a staple food of the Aztecs and Mayans, chia seeds have regained global popularity as a nutrient-dense superfood. They are rich in fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and antioxidants, and offer wide-ranging health benefits for heart, digestive, metabolic, and inflammatory support.

Nutritional highlights per serving (~2 tablespoons):

  • 10g fiber – supports digestion and promotes satiety
  • 5g omega-3 ALA (alpha-linolenic acid) – aids heart and brain health
  • 4g protein – plant-based complete protein
  • Calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and iron – support bone and metabolic health
  • Antioxidants – protect against oxidative stress and aging

Health benefits of chia seeds include:

  • Improving digestion and regularity due to their high soluble fiber content
  • Balancing blood sugar and supporting weight management by slowing carbohydrate absorption and increasing fullness
  • Lowering LDL cholesterol and supporting heart health
  • Providing plant-based omega-3s, important for anti-inflammatory support
  • Supporting endurance and hydration, as chia absorbs 10–12 times its weight in water to form a gel-like consistency

Chia seeds are consumed as:

  • Soaked in water or plant milk to form puddings
  • Added to smoothies, oatmeal, yogurt, and baked goods
  • Ground into flour or used as an egg replacer in vegan cooking

Historical Use:

Chia was highly valued by Aztec and Mayan civilizations, consumed for sustained energy, hydration, and endurance—the word “chia” is derived from the Mayan word for “strength.” Warriors and messengers carried chia as a lightweight, nutrient-dense staple. It was also used in rituals and religious offerings.

In folk medicine, chia was used to relieve joint pain, soothe inflammation, and aid digestion.

Today, chia seed is widely embraced in modern functional nutrition and plant-based diets, especially for its versatility and ability to support cardiovascular health, gut health, hydration, and overall vitality, making it a powerful whole food with both historical roots and modern applications.

Chia seed is used for these health conditions

Cancer (prevention) (Scientific)
Cardiovascular Disease (Scientific)
Cholesterol (high) (Scientific)
Constipation (adults) (Scientific)
Diabetes (Scientific)
Digestion (poor) (Scientific)
Fatigue (Traditional)
Fatty Liver Disease (Scientific)
Gastritis (Traditional)
Hypertension (Scientific)
Inflammation (Scientific)
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (Scientific)
Metabolic Syndrome (Scientific)
Triglycerides (high) (Scientific)
Weight Loss (Scientific)

chia seed is used to support these body systems

Arteries (Scientific)
Blood (Scientific)
Brain (Scientific)
Circulatory System (Scientific)
Digestive System (Scientific)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Scientific)
Heart (Scientific)
Immune System (Scientific)
Intestinal System (Scientific)
Large Intestines (Colon) (Scientific)
Skin (Scientific)
Small Intestines (Scientific)