Family

• Lamiaceae

Components

• Dietary Fibres
• Omega-3 (alpha-linolenic acid - ALA)
• Vegetable protein
• Calcium
• Magnesium
• Ferrous iron
• Antioxidants

Parts used

• Seeds

Properties

• Anti-inflammatory
• Antioxidant
• Cardioprotective
• Prevents insulin resistance
• Regulates cholesterol
• Reduces blood pressure
• Antitumour (in vitro study)
• Decreases appetite

Indications

Internal use

• Hypercholesterolaemia (high cholesterol), hypertriglyceridaemia
• Type 2 diabetes (does not lower blood sugar, but reduces insulin resistance - a problem developed by most diabetics)
• Obesity (prevention of insulin resistance and cardioprotection), for weight loss (increases satiety)
• Hepatic steatosis (fat in the liver - reduces visceral fat)

External use

• Skin conditions  (itching, eczema)

Side effects

• May interfere with mineral absorption if consumed in excess.
• May cause intestinal disturbances due to its fibre composition if insufficient water is consumed.

Contraindications

• Not documented

Interactions

• Not documented

How to use

• Seeds 
• Seed meal
• Fortified foods (cereals, granola bars, biscuits, juices, yoghurts)
• Chia Seed Oil
• Chia Seed Capsule
• Chia Oil Capsule
• Chia Gel