Salvia hispanica L.: Botanical Characteristics, Nutritional Composition, and Potential Health Benefits

The higher incidence of chronic noncommunicable diseases has stimulated interest in new foods that can aid in prevention and treatment. In this context, chia seeds (Salvia hispanica L.) emerge as a promising option due to their rich composition-including α-linolenic acid, fiber, and antioxidants, essential for cardiovascular health, glycemic markers, and neutralization of free radicals-contributing to the reduction of the risk of inflammation and metabolic diseases. This narrative review gathers the most current knowledge on the botanical aspects, composition, and health benefits of chia seeds, based on articles published between 2014 and 2024 in databases such as PubMed, Scientific Electronic Library Online, and ScienceDirect. Study results show chia seeds may play a role in the prevention and treatment of diseases by exhibiting antioxidant, cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, antihypertensive, antidiabetic, and lipid-lowering effects. This review highlights chia seeds as a potential functional food with several therapeutic benefits. However, more clinical studies are needed to better understand the mechanisms of action.