Chia Seeds (Organic)
Bulk Herbs: Chia Seed, Organic
Salvia hispanica
Size: 1 oz package
Format: Whole Seeds
Plant Part: Seeds
Farming: Organic
Also known as: Cichorium intybus, Blue Sailors, Common Chicory, Wild Chicory, Succory, and Wild Succory.
Origin: Peru
Native to Central America, Salvia hispanica is a member of the extensive mint family and has small, mucilaginous seeds known as chia. Chia seeds have been consumed as a food and in beverages for their nutritive properties since the time of the ancient Aztecs. Still popular today, chia seeds are commonly consumed with cereal grains, added to smoothies, or incorporated into fruit juices.
Chia is an annual in the mint family (Lamiaceae) and is native to Guatemala and Mexico in the Americas. It is similar looking to other species of sage, growing up to 3 feet tall, having purple or white flower clusters ending in a spike at each stem, and bearing opposite leaves. The origin of the word 'chia' is thought to come from Nahuatl (language of the Aztecs) word 'chian' meaning oily, as the oil was used for a variety of applications in ancient Mexico. Further, the Mexican state of Chiapas received its name from the meaning 'chia water' or 'chia river.' There are several plants known as chia, a very similar one being Salvia columbariae, which is more commonly known as the golden chia. Others are S. seemannii, S. tiliaefolia, and Hyptis suaveolens, all members of the mint or Lamiacea family sharing some medicinal similarities to S. hispanica.
Active Compounds: Phenolic antioxidants (caffeic/chlorogenic acid), minerals (calcium, phosphorus, magnesium), protein, dietary fiber, and B vitamins
Actions: Nutritive Tonic, Digestive Aid, Hypotensive, Hypoglycemic, Anti-inflammatory, Antioxidant, Demulcent
Indications: Chia seeds are nutrient-dense seeds with significant medicinal potential due to their high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and polyphenols. They support cardiovascular health, reduce inflammation, improve digestion, and aid in blood sugar control. Used as a functional food, they help manage weight by providing satiety through gel expansion in the stomach.
Precautions: Chia seeds are generally safe but require caution due to their high fiber and water-absorption capacity, which can cause digestive issues (bloating, constipation) if overconsumed or eaten dry. Key contraindications include potential blood pressure/sugar drops if on medications, and the risk of choking.
Herbal Magick: Chia seeds hold deep magical lore as sacred, high-energy, and protective, rooted in Aztec and Mayan traditions, where they symbolized the life force, endurance, and strength (often translated as "strength"). They were traditionally offered to deities and used for spiritual purification, energy, and protection. Used to calm and soothe the body during meditation, particularly when soaked. Used in rituals for protection and to create a "shield". Some practitioners use them to create a barrier against gossip or negative energy.
The Food and Drug Administration has not evaluated this information. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease; it is for educational purposes only.