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.
