Common Name: Chia Seeds
Botanical Name: Salvia Hispanica
Kingdom: Plantae
Family: Lamiaceae
Genus: Salvia
Specie: S.Hispanica
The common name of chia seed is derived from the Spanish word "chian," which means oily.
Historical Background & Native countries
Chia seeds are also known as "The Ancient Super-food of the Aztecs". Before the Spanish domination, chia was the biggest mystic part of the Aztec and Mayan foods as the basic survival supply of Aztec warriors. These tiny nutritive seeds were highly reputed because of the Aztec custom of cutting images of gods made from chia dough into pieces and eating them after their religious ceremonies. Today Mexico has become the world largest chia seed producer, followed by Guatemala& some South American countries, like Ecuador, Bolivia, and Peru.
Taste and aroma
Chia seeds are delicately soft and fascinating to eat and have a light seducing taste that anyone will love. And you can increase the mesmerizing flavour by combining them with your favorite drinks.
Chia seeds do not have a very distinct smell, maybe some gentle nutty aroma. If chia seed has a fishy smell or taste, it is a sign to throw them away. The smell is due to the Omega 3's oils in the seeds going rancid.
Culinary Uses
When added to liquid, they plump up several times their size and form a gelatinous coating, which makes their tasting quality divine and delicious.
One way is to sprinkle on salads. You can also make juice or use them in baking.
Health Benefits and Medical Uses
- These fragile edible seeds are solely store-house of essential oils and healthy fats, including Omega 3 and Omega-6, that have an anti-ageing effect on the skin.
- Chia is a gluten-free natural appetite suppressant rich in vital minerals, phytochemicals and other antioxidants that help lose weight, sustain energy, and balance blood sugar.
- Apart from enhancing flavour, they can help maintain heart health, treating diabetes and weight loss.
- Recent research and literature review have proven that they increase bowel movement and help you to avoid constipation.
Storage
Chia seeds can last for approximately 2-4 years in resealable bag or air tight container.