Salvia hispanica

Salvia hispanica is an annual mint-family plant native to Mexico and Guatemala. It is cultivated for chia seeds, which are eaten whole or used in foods and drinks.

Connect

Lamiaceae: Lamiaceae is a family of flowering plants that includes mints, sages, and many aromatic herbs. Salvia hispanica belongs to this family, whose characteristic flowers and aromatic foliage help identify it.
Chia seed: A chia seed is the edible seed of Salvia hispanica, rich in fiber, fat, and protein. It is the plant's principal harvested product and the basis of its food uses.
Mexico: Mexico is a country in North America with diverse ecosystems and a long history of Indigenous civilizations. Its landscapes include part of chia's native range and its historic cultivation areas.
Omega-3 fatty acid: Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fats involved in cell membranes and other biological functions. Chia seeds are a plant source of the omega-3 fatty acid alpha-linolenic acid.
Salvia columbariae: Salvia columbariae is a North American sage species whose edible seeds are known as golden chia. It is a different seed-producing Salvia sometimes confused with Salvia hispanica.
Salvia: Salvia is a large genus of flowering plants in the mint family, including culinary and ornamental species. Chia is one species within this genus, alongside familiar sages.
Chia pudding: Chia pudding is a dish made by soaking chia seeds in liquid until they form a thick gel. The seeds' water-binding gel makes this a common preparation.
Guatemala: Guatemala is a Central American country with tropical lowlands, highlands, and a rich Indigenous heritage. It lies within chia's native range, extending the plant's origins beyond Mexico.
Dietary fiber: Dietary fiber is the part of plant foods that resists digestion in the small intestine. Chia seeds contain abundant fiber, which contributes to their texture and nutritional profile.
Basil: Basil is an aromatic culinary herb in the mint family, cultivated for its leaves. Like chia, it belongs to Lamiaceae, but basil is chiefly harvested for foliage.