There is a misconception that chia seed are the same as flax seeds or sabja seeds. The confusion arises from their identical appearances and hydrophilic properties. Flax seed is linseed. It is known as "alsi" in India. Flax seed is more elliptical in shape, and appear glossier. Unlike chia, they are of uniform brown or amber colour. Sabja seed is the seed of Tulsi plant. It is widely used in India in making milkshakes, falooda, sherbets and other cool refreshments. Where chia is a black, brown, grey and white in colour, sabja is jet black.