Chia seeds facts | Health Benefits

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.

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