Stevia rebaudiana is one of the most health restoring plants on Earth. Stevia leaves can be 30-50 times sweeter than sugar and Stevia extract "Stevioside", up to 400 times sweeter, yet the human body obtains NO calories from Stevia as it does not metabolise the sweet glycosides from any of its forms! Besides the intense sweetness, studies have found the leaf to contain: proteins, fibre, carbohydrates, iron, phosphorus, calcium, potassium, sodium, magnesium, zinc, rutin (a flavonoid), true vitamin A, vitamin C and an oil which contains 53 other constituents. Used by the Ancients for many centuries and also used in our modern times in Japan (25 yrs), Brazil, Paraguay, SthAmerica, Asia, just to name a few. There has been no reported side effects and the Japanese for instance, has substituted it in their manufacture of quintessentially American products like Diet Coke and Wrigley’s sugarless gum!
There are many effective benefits of Stevia, which I have been forbidden to "claim" here! Inhibits the growth and reproduction of some bacteria and other infectious organisms. An exceptional aid in weight loss and weight management as it contains NO CALORIES and reduces one’s cravings for sweets and fatty foods. May aid in gastrointestinal functioning, soothes upset stomachs and a quicker recovery from minor illnesses. There are also many uses for nourishing and hygienic skin care, the list continues!
Please note that the whole leaf may be eaten as it is, grounded dried leaves may be used as a tea and the stevioside used in its powdered form or made into the liquid form, simply by adding water and mixing it together to use as drops! Grounded stevia leaf is excellent when sprinkled lightly over cooking vegetables, meat, cereals and salads. Besides adding its own sweet taste, it also significantly enhances the flavour and nutritional value of the food!
The FDA in America tried banning Stevia as it was BIG competition against their loyal artificial and toxic sugar sweetener companies, but in 1994 it was reversed!
*Please note that Stevia has an after-taste similar to aniseed or licorice. Stevia is also a natural preservative!
Premium Stevia is better quality with less after-taste!