Wednesday, December 18

    Chia seeds facts

    It is the seeds which are harvested from the plant named Salvia hispanica which belongs to the mint family. Seeds are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids. It is so versatile that it has various uses. Chia seeds are predominant diet of ancient Aztec and is cultivated commercially in Bolivia, Guatemala, Argentina, Mexico and Ecuador. Australia is considered as the largest producer of these Chia seeds which has attracted various names for it. The oil which is extracted from the Chia seeds has high content of nutrients. The oils and seeds have high amount of antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids as well as amino acids.

    Name Chia seeds
    Scientific Name Salvia hispanica
    Native Native to Central & Southern Mexico and Guatemala.
    Common/English Name Chia, Mexican Chia, Salba
    Plant Growth Habit Erect, low growing, branched herb
    Soil Well-drained
    Plant Size Height: 1.75 meters (5.7 feet)
    Lifespan Annual
    Leaf Green, pointed, ovate, opposite; Length: 4-8 cm (1.6-3.1 inches; Width: 3-5 cm (1.2-2 inches)
    Flowering Season Middle of summer
    Flower Hermaphrodite, purple or white
    Peel Smooth
    Flavor/aroma Mild, nutty
    Seed shape & size Tiny, oval; Diameter: 1 mm
    Seed color Black, brown, white
    Varieties/Types
    • Chan
    • Golden chia
    Major Nutritions Phosphorus, P 244 mg (34.86%)
    Manganese, Mn 0.772 mg (33.57%)
    Copper, Cu 0.262 mg (29.11%)
    Selenium, Se 15.6 µg (28.36%)
    Tryptophan 0.124 g (28.18%)
    Iron, Fe 2.19 mg (27.38%)
    Total dietary Fiber 9.8 g (25.79%)
    Total Fat (lipid) 8.71 g (24.89%)
    Magnesium, Mg 95 mg (22.62%)
    Calcium, Ca 179 mg (17.90%)
    Health Benefits
    • Heart health
    • Form bones
    • Level of sugar
    • Treat arthritis
    • Form hemoglobin
    • Treat cramps
    • Skin health
    • Cure eczema
    • Prostate health
    • Pregnant women
    Calories in 1 oz. (28.35 gm) 138 Kcal.
    Traditional uses
    • The seeds are used as a thirst quencher.
    • It helps to reduce bad cholesterol and triglycerides.
    • It possesses anti-cancer, febrifuge, digestive, ophthalmic and disinfectant properties.
    • The infusion of Chia seeds helps to treat fevers.
    • A seed poultice is applied to treat infections.
    • Seeds help to clean eyes and eliminate foreign particles.
    Precautions
    • The allergic reactions such as rash, facial swelling, watery eyes, hives, rashes, dizziness and shortness of breath might be experienced.
    • One should be conscious of the side effects before consuming it.
    • The people allergic to Chia seeds should stay away from Chia seeds.
    • The excessive use of Chia seeds provokes side effects.
    How to Eat
    • The seeds are used to make pudding or gruel.
    • The seeds are added to salads, soups, sandwiches, stews etc.
    • The grounded seeds are added to meals, biscuits, bread, cakes etc.
    • The gelled seeds are used in pudding or porridge.
    • Chia seeds are sprinkled over yogurt, smoothies, cereal and oatmeal.
    • It is added to juices, drinks, milk shakes and protein shakes.
    Other Facts
    • Chia plant is considered as the member of mint family.
    • Chia seeds were used as a source of food.
    • It helps to hydrate body.
    • Chia seeds are rich in antioxidants.