Chia seed
| Chia seed in TCM:Explore the properties of Chia seed according to Chinese
Nutrition and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM):
Temperature: neutral
Channels: LI, ST
Flavors: sweet
Tonifies: qi
Special Properties:
resolves dryness
According to HWWF (533,337,167) Chia Seed has a sedative action and is rich is omega 3 fatty acids such as alpha-linolenic acid. Alpha-linolenic acid is a fatty acid found in plants. In fact approximately 30 percent of a Chia Seeds oil is composed of alpha-linolenic acid. Since most people are deficient in alpha-linolenic acid it makes sense as a preventative even for people who are not experiencing circulatory problems. Apart from flax seed, Chia seeds are the highest source of omega-3 fatty acids.
Chia seeds are not native to China, so there is little information to be found in the ancient texts. However the editor believes them to be neutral to slightly cool in temperature, based on personal experience.
Although there is no mention of specific channels entered by Chia seed, it is safe to assume that their flavor is sweet and they are commonly referred to as a 'savory' food which means they would be classified as Wei (rich) foods in Chinese medicine.
Additionally Chia seeds are considered to be an energy tonic that also helps to lubricate dryness. American Indians of the southwest used Chia seed for sustenance while engaging in long distance running over great distances.
Because they are commonly used in Latin America to treat constipation, it is probably safe to assume that they enter the Large Intestine channel, and because they promote feelings of fullness in the stomach it is likely that they enter the stomach as well.
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