Chia (Salvia hispanica): Nutraceutical Properties and Therapeutic Applications

Abstract

Chia seeds (Salvia hispanica L.) have high amounts of nutraceutical compounds and a great commercial potential. The aim of this work was to identify proximate composition, fatty acids profile, total phenolics and antioxidant capacity of chia, as well the protein fractions and determine their antihypertensive potential. The seeds exhibited high content of protein, fiber, and lipids, mainly polyunsaturated fatty acids. Important amounts of phenols and a high antioxidant activity (DPPH and ABTS) were found. Globulins fraction showed the most abundant concentration followed by albumins. Peptides from albumins and globulins exhibited the strongest potential against the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) activity. In brief, this study demonstrates that chia can be considered a seed with high nutritional content, antioxidant activity and as a novel antihypertensive agent; important factors for the frequent incorporation of chia in the human diet.