Herbs Guide

Stevia

Family Name: Chrysanthemum

Botanical Name(s): Stevia Rebaudiana

Popular Name(s): Stevia, Sweetleaf

Parts Used: Leaf

Habitat: It is a native of the rain forests of Brazil and Paraguay.

Description: Stevia Rebaudiana is a small perennial growing up to 65-80 cm, with sessile, oppositely arranged leaves. Different species of Stevia contains several potential sweetening compounds, with Stevia rebaudiana being the sweetest of all. Stevia is a semi-humid subtropical plant that can be grown easily like any other vegetable crop.

Uses: Stevia is benfical for diabetics, as it does not affect blood sugar levels. Stevia does not have the nesurological or renal side effects of some of the artificial sweeteners. Stevia possess anti-fungal and anti-bacterial property also in addition to its other versatile uses. It can be safely used in herbal medicines, tonics for diabetic patients and also in the daily usage products like mouthwashes and toothpastes.