Chia Seed (Salvia hispanica L.) biology: A superfood cereal for healthy life – An overview

The Chia seed plant (Salvia hispanica L.) is an annual cereal crop, gaining attention in recent years, all over the world as super food for its power in human health. Chia is an annual, small-seeded herbaceous plant and an important source of minerals, vitamins, and fiber. In tropical and subtropical climates, the cultivation and usage of chia seeds have grown tremendously due to their higher nutritional and medicinal value, containing healthy polyunsaturated fatty acids, omega-3 fatty acids, minerals, dietary fiber, proteins, and some important vitamins. Besides, the seeds are an excellent source of antioxidants and polyphenols such as myricetin, quercetin, caffeic and rosmarinic acid, and others. In recent years, researchers both in developed and developing countries have been researching the agronomic aspects and investigating the benefits of the mentioned seeds in the pharmaceutical, medicinal and food industries. In this study, an extensive overview of the nutritional properties to produce chia seed is discussed. This review article highlights the benefits of chia seeds, their antioxidants and nutritional values in human health and to use for maximum benefits along with the agronomic aspect of these potential seeds. High nutritional profile with tremendous health benefits, part of an overall healthy diet that improves blood lipid profile in humans.