Chia Seeds: A Comprehensive Review

Chia seeds (Salvia hispanica Linn) have gained high value for their nutritional and medicinal benefits. They contain ω-3 and 6 fatty acids, vitamins, dietary fibres, proteins, minerals and antioxidants such as caffeic acid and quercetin. Chia has been extensively researched in various areas, including food, medicinal and pharmaceutical industries. Chia oil is considered one of the most valuable oils on the market. The seeds’ potential health benefits include controlling diabetes, dyslipidemia, hypertension, cardio protective as well as offering antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Chia protein hydrolysates have shown promise in reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. Hence chia seeds are recognized as a very valuable functional food with many significant health-promoting properties.