title: Chia (Salvia hispanica): a systematic review by the natural standard research collaboration.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To evaluate the scientific evidence on chia (Salvia hispanica) including history, folkloric precedent, expert opinion, pharmacology, dosing, interactions, adverse effects, and toxicology. This review serves as a clinical support tool.
  
  
  METHODS
  Electronic searches were conducted in ten databases, 20 additional journals (not indexed in common databases), and bibliographies from 50 selected secondary references. No restrictions were placed on language or quality of publications. All literature collected pertained to efficacy in humans, dosing, precautions, adverse effects, use in pregnancy/lactation, interactions, alteration of laboratory assays, and mechanisms of action. Standardized inclusion/exclusion criteria are utilized for selection. Grades were assigned using an evidence-based grading rationale.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The available human and non-human studies show possible effectiveness for allergies, angina, athletic performance enhancement, cancer, coronary heart disease (CHD), heart attack, hormonal/endocrine disorders, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, stroke, and vasodilatation. Some evidence also suggests possible anticoagulant, antioxidant, and antiviral effects of Salvia hispanica.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  There is limited evidence supporting the efficacy of Salvia hispanica for any indication; thus far, only two clinical studies have examined the effects of Salvia hispanica on cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors (including body weight). One study showed some effects on some CVD risk factors, while the other did not. Neither study showed any effects of Salvia hispanica on weight loss. However, the historical use of Salvia hispanica suggests that it is safe for consumption by nonallergic individuals. Further rigorous examination is warranted pertaining to the use of Salvia hispanica as a dietary supplement, as well as in the treatment or prevention of human disease.
authors.affiliation: Natural Standard Research Collaboration, One Davis Square, Somerville, MA 02144, USA. info@naturalstandard.com
authors.forename: Catherine
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Ulbricht
authors.forename: Wendy
authors.initials: W
authors.lastname: Chao
authors.forename: Katie
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Nummy
authors.forename: Erica
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Rusie
authors.forename: Shaina
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Tanguay-Colucci
authors.forename: Carmen M
authors.initials: CM
authors.lastname: Iannuzzi
authors.forename: Jeena B
authors.initials: JB
authors.lastname: Plammoottil
authors.forename: Minney
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Varghese
authors.forename: Wendy
authors.initials: W
authors.lastname: Weissner
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D006801:Humans; D017962:alpha-Linolenic Acid / Q000494:pharmacology; D002318:Cardiovascular Diseases / Q000517:prevention & control; D004043:Dietary Fiber; D019587:Dietary Supplements; D005227:Fatty Acids / Q000494:pharmacology; D018565:Food-Drug Interactions; D041743:Herb-Drug Interactions; D027544:Salvia / Q000737:chemistry; D012639:Seeds / Q000737:chemistry
chemical_list: D017962:alpha-Linolenic Acid; D004043:Dietary Fiber; D005227:Fatty Acids