Description

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 seed is commonly consumed with cereal grains, added to smoothies, or incorporated into fruit juices.

Chia is widely known in Latin America and has been consumed as a nutritive medicinal food and beverage since the time of the ancient Aztecs. It is still popular today in its native habitat of Mexico and Guatemala, and also in Paraguay, Bolivia, and Argentina. More recently, it has become popular in the United States for its antioxidant and fiber content and as a high mucilage superfood that provides Omega 3 fatty acids. It is best eaten with cereal, added to smoothies, or made into fruity beverages. The plant is also referred to as Spanish sage.