7 Differences between Chia Seeds & Sabja Seeds

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CHIA Seeds on the left side and SABJA seeds on the right side

Chia seeds are tiny power-packed seeds that have been documented to be around since 3500 bc in the diets of Aztecs and Mayans. They had identified that these super seeds had the ability to increase stamina and energy over long periods of time.

What is the difference between chia seed and sabja seeds (basil seeds)?

Chia seed is a native of Mexico and it does not have an Indian name. However, it has time and again been confused with basil seeds which are also known as Sabja in Hindi. Be it in appearance, origin or health benefits; Chia seeds are different from Sabja in numerous ways. Both chia seeds and sabja seeds originate from the mint family and hence the resemblance.

So how do you differentiate one from the other? Below are a few simple ways that can help you do so:

Native

Chia seeds are native to central and southern Mexico while Sabja seeds are native to India and the Mediterranean region.

2. Colour

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As can be seen in the above image, the left side is CHIA SEEDS. They are usually a mixture of grey, black, white and sometimes even brown seeds. However, even the black ones are not pitch black in colour. Instead, a dull pattern or a mosaic is visible on them. On the right side is SABJA SEEDS, uniformly jet Black in colour.

3. Appearance

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Chia seeds are oval in shape and Sabja seeds are elliptical, like tiny grains of rice.

4. On Soaking in Water

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Sabja Seeds in the water on the left, Chia seeds in water on the right

Chia seeds take time to absorb water. It has the unique ability to gel by absorbing over 10 times their weight. Sabja seeds swell up within seconds of being mixed with water. A translucent coat forms around the seed and it appears much larger in size when compared to a soaked chia seed.

5. Taste of Soaked Seeds

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Sabja seeds in water on the top glass, Chia seeds in water on the bottom glass

Chia seeds do not have any taste of its own and can easily be incorporated in any kind of dish. Sabja seeds have a mild flavour of basil and impart the same to drinks and desserts.

6.Usage

Chia seeds can be consumed raw or soaked. Sabja seeds can be consumed only after soaking.

7. Health Benefits

Both, Chia and Sabja seeds have their own set of health benefits. They have been known to aid in weight loss due to their ability to make you feel fuller faster. Here are the most beneficial properties of the seeds.

Chia seeds

Good source of proteins and Omega 3s
The naturally low-carb and high-fibre food helps in digestion
Highly recommended for weight-loss
Promotes energy and endurance
Helps in stabilizing blood sugar levels

Sabja Seeds

One of the best body coolant
Has a soothing effect on the stomach and hence useful to combat acidity
Good source of vitamins and Iron
Helps to promote healthy skin and hair
Acts as a detoxifying agent and helps to cleanse the blood

FACTOR	CHIA SEEDS	SABJA SEEDS
Native	to Central and southern Mexico	Native to India and the Mediterranean region
Colour	Usually a mixture of grey, black, white and sometimes even brown seeds. However, even the black ones are not pitch black in colour. Instead, a dull pattern or a mosaic is visible on them	Uniformly jet Black or pitch black in colour
Appearance	Oval in shape	Elliptical, like tiny grains of rice
On soaking in water	Chia takes time to absorb water. It has the unique ability to gel by absorbing over 10 times their weight.	Sabja swell up within seconds of being mixed with water. A translucent coat forms around the seed and it appears much larger in size when compared to a soaked chia seed
Taste of soaked seeds	Does not have any taste of its own and can easily be incorporated in any kind of dish.	Has a mild flavour of basil and imparts the same to drinks and desserts
Usage/Health Benefits	Can be consumed raw or soaked. Good source of proteins and Omega 3s	Can be consumed only after soaking. Has a soothing effect on the stomach and hence useful to combat acidity.