The benefits of the sweet herb stevia. Stevia sweetener: benefits and harms, reviews

The article will tell you how to use stevia correctly and what properties it has.

Stevia is a plant from which a natural sugar substitute called stevioside is obtained. The sweet substance obtained from stevia not only helps those trying to avoid eating sugar lose weight, but also improves the quality of food and drinks for those struggling with diabetes. In addition, stevia has a large supply of useful microelements. Stevia is a herb that can reach a meter in height and is a perennial plant.

INTERESTING: A scientifically proven fact confirms that the ancient Indians added stevia to their drink recipes, but the modern world learned about this plant only in the last century.

Rich and beneficial composition of stevia:

Vitamin E - helps maintain the youth of the body and the beauty of the skin, nails, and hair.
Group of B vitamins – regulate human hormonal levels and are responsible for the normal functioning of the body.
Vitamin D – responsible for bone health
Vitamin C – improves the body's immune function
Vitamin P – “helper” in strengthening blood vessels
A supply of essential oils - have internal and external positive effects on the body and body.
The supply of tannins strengthens not only blood vessels, but also improves the functioning of the digestive tract.
Iron – prevents anemia
Amino acids – prolong the youth of the body, improve the health of the body.
Copper – helps synthesize hemoglobin in the blood
Selenium – helps in the production of enzymes and hormones
Magnesium – normalizes blood pressure and cleans blood vessels
Phosphorus – helps form the skeletal system
Potassium – “takes care” of the body’s soft tissues (muscles)
Calcium – essential for human bone and muscle tissue
Zinc – improves skin cell regeneration
Silicon – strengthens bones
Chromium – regulates blood sugar levels
Cobalt – helps in the production of thyroid hormones

IMPORTANT: With such a rich composition of beneficial microelements, stevia has a low calorie content of 18 kcal per 100 g.

What does stevia look like and grow?

Benefits of Stevia:

When ingested, stevia does not fill a person with “empty” carbohydrates (compared to sugar).
Stevia has a pleasant, sweet taste, which can be used to complement hot drinks and desserts.
Stevia is a plant that is useful for its microelements for people suffering from diabetes and high blood pressure.
Stevia gently removes cholesterol from the body that may have accumulated over the years.
Stevia “cleanses” the body of accumulated toxins and harmful substances.
The plant improves blood flow and removes toxins
Eliminates high blood pressure
Stevia can reduce inflammation
Improves the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract and liver
Can lower blood sugar levels
Stevia is a powerful antimicrobial agent that has an effect not only on the oral cavity, but also on the digestive tract.
Strengthens the immune system, replenishes the body with strength and energy
In winter, it serves as an excellent prevention of colds.
Improves the body's metabolism, while simultaneously slowing down its aging.
“Removes” “excess” water from the body, having a powerful diuretic effect.

IMPORTANT: Numerous studies confirm that stevia is harmless to the body and only in some cases (if there is an intolerance to the ingredient), it is possible to get some “negative” consequences.

Possible harm of stevia:

It is important to know that stevia should not be consumed in large portions at once. It should be introduced into the diet gradually so as not to harm yourself.
If you drink stevia and milk at the same time, you can get diarrhea.
With individual predisposition, stevia can cause allergies.
If you do not control the use of stevia (if you have diabetes), you can cause yourself great harm.
Stevia should not be consumed by those with low blood pressure.
To prevent it from getting worse, do not consume excessive amounts of stevia if you have a digestive disorder, hormonal imbalance, or blood disease.

IMPORTANT: Before consuming stevia, you should consult your doctor about the possibility of its frequent use in food.

Stevia is a natural sweetener

Stevia herb and leaves: use for type 2 diabetes

Stevia is often called “honey grass” for its pleasant aroma and sweetness. The leaves of the plant are sweet. Interestingly, stevia extract is much sweeter than regular sugar. It does not interfere with weight loss, as it does not slow down metabolism.

If a person has type 2 diabetes, it is allowed to use stevia in several forms:

Tablets – plant leaf extract
The syrup is an extract from stevia; the syrup can have different flavors.
Tea – dry leaves of the plant, large or crushed
Extract – plant extract

Stevia herb and leaves: use for weight loss, calorie content

Stevia is a plant that can help a person in the fight against weight loss. Its pleasant sweetish taste and beneficial properties will only have beneficial effects on the body.

What is good about stevia for weight loss:

The herb can eliminate increased appetite
Provides sweetness without adding calories
Saturates the body with vitamins and amino acids important for healthy weight loss.
Eliminates any inflammatory processes without forcing a person to resort to “harmful” chemical medications.
Improves intestinal function and “cleanses” it of accumulated toxins.

IMPORTANT: If you cannot drink tea or coffee without sugar, you can replace it with stevia tablets, which you can buy at the pharmacy. It is much healthier to drink tea brewed from fresh or dry leaves.

How to use stevia correctly?

The syrup is less recommended for consumption, because it is intended for medicinal purposes and contains a portion of sugar. Tea with stevia has sweetness and this allows a person to “delight himself” with something sweet. At the same time, regular sugar does not enter the body and it begins to look for other ways to obtain carbohydrates hidden in the fat “reserves” of the body.

In order to achieve greater weight loss effects when consuming stevia, you should completely regulate your diet, eliminating fats and carbohydrates. In addition, you should definitely drink a lot of water per day and preferably exercise. You should not consume stevia in large quantities from the very first day; start with one cup of tea or one or two tablets.

IMPORTANT: If after consuming stevia you experience itching, intestinal irritation, fever and rashes, you most likely have an intolerance to stevia. Eliminate stevia from your diet, or reduce the amount you use.

Stevia tablets "Leovit" - instructions for use

The Leovit company has been producing stevia tablets for several years in a row. This product is most popular and in demand in pharmacies as a sweetener. Stevia tablets are considered a natural dietary supplement that can have a beneficial effect on humans.

One small brown stevia tablet from Leovit contains 140 mg of plant leaf extract. This dose is quite sufficient for initial and systematic use.

Indications for use of stevia:

Diabetes mellitus
Impaired metabolism
Impaired carbohydrate metabolism in the body
Obesity
Weak immunity
Skin diseases
Prevention of aging
Disruption of the gastrointestinal tract
Insufficient secret
Pancreatic diseases
Low acidity
Intestinal disorder
Diseases of the heart and vascular system
High cholesterol

Contraindications to the use of stevia:

Allergy
Individual intolerance
Receptive Gut

Stavia in tablets is intended for internal use. They are needed to sweeten liquids (hot and cold). One or two tablets are enough for one-time use. It is important not to exceed the daily dose of 8 tablets.

Stevia - sweetener in tablets

How and who can drink herbal tea with stevia?

Tea with stevia is drunk when fighting excess weight, for preventive and therapeutic purposes. You can buy the herb at the pharmacy, or you can grow it yourself in the garden or even on the windowsill. You can add stevia leaves to any other tea to sweeten it.

How to brew tea, several ways:

First way: Pour boiling water over fresh leaves and let them brew for 5-7 minutes.
Second way: Pour boiling water over the dry herb and let it brew for 3-4 minutes.
Third way: add fresh or dry leaves to regular tea.

Stevia tea brewing recipe:

Stevia – 20-25 gr.
Boiling water 60-70 degrees – 500 ml.

Preparation:

Pour boiling water over the grass
Infuse the herb for 5 minutes with the lid closed
Strain the resulting tea
Pour boiling water back into the thermos and leave the squeezed herb for 5-6 hours.
Drink tea three times a day
Drink tea half an hour before meals

Healthy stevia tea

How and who can use stevia syrup?

Stevia syrup is often used to make dietary and healthy jam from fruits and berries. Syrup is also added to tea, water or coffee in small quantities to sweeten the drink. Compotes and other drinks are brewed with syrup: lemonade, infusion, herbal decoctions, even cocoa.

IMPORTANT: Concentrated and sweet syrup is used for medicinal and preventive purposes, but not for weight loss. Stevia syrup is obtained by boiling the herb for a long time. This is a very concentrated substance and should be added to drinks in limited quantities: just a few drops per glass.

Stevia syrup

How to use stevia powder?

Stevia powder is a highly concentrated substance and therefore should be consumed with caution and in accordance with the dosage. Simply put, the powder is a refined substance called “stevioside.” Exaggerating the dosage of stevia in recipes can spoil the dish and make it have a cloying sweet taste.

Stevia powder

Is it possible to take the sweetener stevia during pregnancy and nursing mothers?

Every woman should be attentive to her condition, monitor her health and nutrition, and the development of the fetus. Often pregnant women decide to use stevia. Instead of sugar, so as not to gain extra pounds.

Fortunately, stevia is completely harmless and safe for pregnant women and does not pose any threat to the fetus. Moreover, in the first trimester (when severe nausea is often present), stevia is indicated for use against toxicosis. On the other hand, if a pregnant woman is sick and has diabetes, then taking stevia should definitely be discussed with a doctor.

Another precaution is to take into account the characteristics of your blood pressure; stevia lowers it and therefore can play a “wicked joke” on a woman’s health and cause harm. In no case should you violate the prescribed dosage so as not to worsen your condition.

Can children take the sweetener stevia?

As you know, children are great lovers of sweets from birth, when they taste their mother’s breast milk. Older children often indulge in excessive consumption of chocolate and sugar. You can replace these “harmful” foods by including stevia (syrup, powder, infusion or tablets) in your recipes.

By consuming drinks and homemade sweets with stevia, the child will not only not be able to harm himself with an excessive amount of carbohydrates, but also provide himself with great benefits: get vitamins, strengthen the immune system and prevent colds. You can give stevia from birth (but this is not required), but from six months you can already slightly sweeten drinks and cereals.

IMPORTANT: Monitor your baby’s sensations to see if he has a rash or intestinal irritation after taking stevia. If everything is fine, then the baby is not allergic to the substance.

Stevia sweetener: reviews

Valeria:“I switched to stevia tablets a long time ago instead of sugar. I know that this is the bare minimum for my health, but I try to lead a healthy lifestyle and want not to harm myself with “empty” carbohydrates.”

Daria: “I follow the Dukan diet and constantly use stevia tablets, powder and tea to help me achieve my goal of getting a slim figure.”

Alexander: “I only recently learned about stevia, but since then I can’t live without it. I drink tea - it is pleasant, sweet and tasty. In addition, it expels excess fluid and helps me lead a healthy lifestyle and also lose weight!”

Video: “Life is great! Stevia. Sugar substitute"

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Stevia, the benefits and harms of which are controversial among experts and lively reviews among people, has long been used as a natural sweetener. This plant is unique in its composition and properties, and the centuries-old history of its use indicates a positive result. However, like any medicine, stevia should be used wisely, and better - after consultation with a doctor.

What kind of plant is this?

The stevia plant is a perennial herb that grows in the form of a bush 55–110 cm high, with a straight stem and small, numerous leaves. The stems die off every year, but then new ones grow. There are a lot of leaves on the plant - from 500 to 1300 leaves are collected from one bush, which are of the main value. In total, more than 150 species of stevia have been discovered, but Stevia rebaudiana is of greatest interest.

In its natural form, the grass grows in a small area of Paraguay and Brazil (South America). After the miraculous properties of the plant became known, it began to be cultivated in many countries around the world. Many countries in southeast Asia (Taiwan, Korea, Malaysia) grow stevia without problems, and China has become its main supplier for pharmacology and household use. In nature, the grass prefers a warm mountain climate, but in principle it grows well when the following conditions are provided: constantly moist soil, high air humidity and temperatures above 16–18ºC.

The main feature of the plant is the very sweet taste of its leaves. At its core, stevia is a honey herb, the sweetness of which is ten times greater than that of regular sugar. Because of this property, stevia is recognized as an effective sweetener, and the role of a sweetener is played by stevioside powder from the leaves.

Useful ingredients

In addition to stevioside, the leaves of the plant contain many other important components that provide medicinal properties. The most valuable are diterpene glycosides, in particular rebaudioside A (up to 30% of all glycosides), rebaudiosides B and E (up to 4%), rebaudiosides C and D (about 0.5%), steviol bioside and ducloside (0.5% each). ). It is these components that provide the plant with its unique sweetness.

The general composition of stevia leaves includes the following substances: diterpene glycosides (17–19%), flavonoids (28–44%), water-soluble chlorophylls (9–16%), hydroxycinnamic acids (2.4–3.3%), oligosaccharides (1 .4–2.2%), free sugars (3.2–5.2%), amino acids - 17 items (1.4–3.1%), trace minerals (0.16–1.2%), complex of vitamins A, C, D, E, K, P (0.15–0.2%), essential oils. Among the mineral microelements, the following stand out: zinc, chromium, phosphorus, iron, calcium, potassium, magnesium, selenium, sodium, iodine.

Flavonoids combine substances in many ways similar to vitamin P. The main representatives: rutin, quercetin, quercitrin, avicularin, apigenen. These ingredients are considered quite effective antioxidants, have the ability to increase human immunity, have a strengthening effect on stenotic tissues of blood vessels, reduce cholesterol levels, and promote the resorption of blood clots. In terms of flavonoid levels, this herb is comparable to cranberries and blueberries.

Chlorophyll gives stevia antibacterial properties, and hydroxycinnamic acid helps increase immune defense. Essential oils are represented in the plant by more than 50 substances. They impart important properties:

The vitamin and mineral complex contained in stevia leaves is unique. The zinc and chromium content ensures the activation of the so-called glucose tolerance factor. Zinc helps normalize the function of the pancreas in the production of insulin. In general, the entire complex plays an important role in improving the metabolic processes occurring in the body.

Diterpene glycosides contain saponins in their structure, which, in turn, have surface activity. This property provides an expectorant effect, enhances the secretion of many glands, and has certain diuretic abilities.

What are the benefits of the plant

The most typical assessment of the benefits of the plant in question sounds like this: stevia is a sugar substitute that can be used for type 2 diabetes, while it stimulates the production of its own insulin.

However, when stevia is considered, the medicinal properties are not limited to this circumstance.

The herb exhibits the following medicinal effect:

When stevia is considered, its use is recommended for many ailments. Stevia is a sweetener that is very useful for diabetics of the second type of pathology. The herb extract is considered a very good preventative against the development of hyperglycemic conditions. Stevia for diabetes helps reduce the dose of insulin taken by stimulating its production in the body itself.

The herb is recommended for the development of obesity, digestive pathologies, cardiac ischemia, atherosclerosis, problems with teeth and gums, and arthritis. Experts note a beneficial effect on the functioning of the adrenal glands, which helps to increase life expectancy.

One of the uses of stevia is weight loss. People who stubbornly struggle with excess weight have long appreciated the benefits of this plant. Eating it with salads dulls the feeling of hunger and reduces appetite, i.e. allows a person to give up excess food without any problems. In addition, herbal infusions improve metabolic processes, remove toxins and cholesterol from the body, which significantly affects weight loss.

Problems with using herbs

When stevia is used, virtually no harm is detected. Exceptions can be made only in rare cases of individual intolerance. Before carrying out a course of treatment, you should make sure that there is no allergic reaction due to hypertrophied sensitivity. To completely eliminate the risk of allergies, stevia is introduced into the diet gradually, with minimal doses.

It should be especially noted this fact: when stevia is taken, the contraindications are rather of a precautionary, reinsurance nature, excluding the slightest risk of side effects. The following recommendations can be highlighted:

It is not advisable to consume stevia and preparations made from it with milk (diarrhea is possible).
Caution should be exercised by people suffering from hypotension, because... The plant helps lower blood pressure.
Certain side effects are possible in case of hormonal imbalance, digestive problems, hematogenous pathologies, nervous disorders - in such circumstances, consultation with a doctor is necessary.

How is stevia used?

Stevia, whose medicinal properties are highly regarded throughout the world, is used in various forms. The pharmaceutical industry isolates concentrated substances and then offers them in the form of extracts, tablets, and powder. At home, herbal tea, infusion, decoction, and syrup are widely used. Stevia is actively added to food, for example, in salads. The herbal extract is used in the production of various drinks (carbonated and non-carbonated), yoghurts, desserts, ice cream, and flour products. Recently, stevia components have begun to be introduced into toothpaste and mouthwashes.

Stevia tablets are a fairly common pharmaceutical form. Their basis is rebaudioside or stevioside, isolated from the plant. Two ingredients are often used as fillers - erythrol and maltodextrin, which are also natural. The culinary industry offers a wide selection of ready-made products: cakes, candies, chocolate, cookies, gingerbreads, jams, herbal tea, pancake mixes with stevia extract. Seeds or dry mixtures of the plant can be purchased separately.

Stevia - what is it? A perennial subtropical plant that is grown as an annual in the middle zone. It is a fluffy bush, highly branched. The height reaches approximately 70 cm. The leaves are simple, arranged in pairs. The flowers are white, small. The horse system is very well developed, so if you decide to grow stevia in a pot, you need to choose the appropriate size. And now about the most important thing - why is stevia so popular? What is this substance contained in its leaves that allows it to act as the best sugar substitute? Let's figure it out together.

Nature never ceases to amaze

Indeed, stevia leaves contain a glycoside - stevioside. This is a natural substance that is 300 times sweeter than sucrose. This means that there is a way out for those with a sweet tooth - eat your favorite sweets, lollipops, pastries, and absolutely not worry about your figure, since, unlike sugar, this substance does not contain calories. For diabetics, people with impaired carbohydrate metabolism and cardiovascular diseases, stevia is a real godsend. The world learned that this is the only natural analogue of sugar not so long ago, although the plant has been cultivated in its homeland for many centuries. Its leaves are used fresh or dried, and for ease of use you can purchase syrup or extract at the pharmacy.

Use in everyday life

Many people are unusual in using leaves instead of sugar, but in vain. They are added to various drinks, coffee, tea and cocktails. Despite the greenish tint and specific taste that you get used to, stevia makes it possible to consume sweets without harm to your health and figure. At the same time, the plant does not change its properties when heated, which means it can be used for making baked goods, jam and other dishes. It is also resistant to low temperatures and acids. This means that stevia is also well suited for freezing, as well as for preparing fruit juices and drinks, including oranges and lemons. What kind of plant this is and how to use it, few people know yet, but gradually its popularity is growing, people pass seeds to each other and tell each other how to grow them at home and in the country. Today we will talk about how to grow and use honey grass.

Chemical composition

Before planting, much less consuming, it’s a good idea to find out what stevia is. Every herbalist knows the medicinal properties of this plant, but let’s first look at what beneficial elements it provides to the body. To date, research has confirmed that the leaves contain a large amount of vitamins A, C, P, E, as well as trace elements, essential oils, polysaccharides, glycosides, and fiber. impart, as we have already mentioned, stevioside glycosides, which are hundreds of times sweeter than sugar. However, here I would like to note that this only applies to powder produced using special technologies, which essentially represents the production of a concentrate or extract. Simple leaves, which you pick from a plant, dry and grind in a coffee grinder, are only 15 times sweeter than sugar, that is, a spoonful of such powder cannot replace 300 spoons of sugar. But it has an undeniable advantage: it contains no calories.

Stevia: medicinal properties of the plant

The chemical composition of this plant has the ability to save a person from many health problems. It is especially widely used in alternative medicine. Herbalists call it a healing plant and a recipe for eternal youth. It has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic, bactericidal and choleretic effects. This composition allows you to maintain the body’s immune strength and effectively respond to pathogenic viruses and bacteria. In addition, there is an antiallergic effect, which is also closely related to the body’s immune system, as well as a pronounced diuretic and antifungal effect. The only reason why you need to adhere to a certain dosage is that overuse of stevia can negatively affect performance.

Unique amino acids

We have disclosed only a general list of useful properties; we would like to dwell on a few more points. Stevia leaves contain the essential amino acid lysine. It is one of the key elements of the hematopoiesis process and is actively involved in the formation of hormones, antibodies and enzymes. Lysine plays an important role in the healing of skin defects and restoration of the musculoskeletal system after injuries. Another acid that the leaves contain is methionine. It is extremely important for people who live in unfavorable environmental conditions. It helps protect the body from the harmful effects of radiation. In addition, it is extremely important for the liver, as it prevents fatty degeneration.

Gastrointestinal protection

Stevia leaves contain exactly the set of microelements that are necessary for good functioning of the stomach and intestines. The plant has anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties. This is extremely important, since the walls of our stomach are often negatively affected by too spicy foods, acids and enzymes. Any imbalance threatens their integrity and threatens the formation of ulcers.

Regular use of stevia helps protect the stomach from the effects of strong alcohol and spices. In addition, a unique plant allows you to restore microflora to normal after a course of antibiotics or poisoning (alcohol, medication or food). Stevia also has a positive effect on the pancreas.

Cardiovascular system

And here stevia showed itself well. The plant can have a beneficial effect on the condition of the heart, blood vessels and capillaries, which is easily explained by the presence of flavonoids. It is these substances that provide strength to the walls of our blood vessels and help overcome spasms. The presence only enhances the vascular strengthening effect. Without it, full synthesis of collagen, which is necessary for the elasticity of blood vessels and the activity of the heart muscle, is impossible.

Stevia syrup provides the body with essential microelements. These are potassium, phosphorus and magnesium. Thanks to this “cocktail”, blood clots are prevented and the amount of bad cholesterol in the blood is reduced. The risk of inflammatory processes is reduced, which means that stevia is a plant that effectively fights heart attacks and strokes.

Musculoskeletal system

As already mentioned, stevia extract contains a large number of microelements. They are vital for the full development and functioning of cartilage tissue and bones. These are calcium and vitamin D, silicon and lysine, that is, the set that is able to compensate the body for minimal physical activity, passive rest, work in unnatural positions, and excess weight. Stevia is recommended by surgeons and orthopedists for diseases such as osteochondrosis and arthrosis. As you can see, stevia extract can be used not only for weight loss, but also for general health, strengthening and healing the body. This can easily be grown on your windowsill. Let's look at the features of cultivation.

Selection of site and soil

First of all, you need to get the stevia seeds themselves. Today this can be done in specialized stores, from familiar summer residents or via the Internet. With the arrival of spring, it is necessary to choose a place for future plantings. If you have a personal plot, then choose the sunniest place protected from the wind. In the shade, the leaves will not accumulate as much sweet steoside. It is best if legumes grew in the selected area last year. The composition of the soil is also very important; it should be light and loose, with a slightly acidic reaction. If your site is very different, take out some of the garden soil and add a special store-bought mixture there. You can prepare your own mixture of peat, forest humus and river sand.

Planting seeds

Stevia seeds are sown for seedlings in late March - early April. In the middle zone it is used as an annual; 16-18 weeks after sowing, the leaves are harvested and the plant is dug up. Although it can grow in a pot all year round. Contrary to popular belief, stevia from seeds is quite easy to grow. The seeds, of course, are small, but that’s not a problem. Mix them with fine sand and carefully spread them over the surface of the light earthen mixture. They do not need to be covered with soil, just lightly sprayed with water and covered with glass or polyethylene. As soon as the sprouts appear, remove the glass and move the pot to the brightest place. With the appearance of a pair of true leaves, it is necessary to pick.

Planting in open ground

With the onset of sustained heat, the plants should be moved to the garden bed. If you plan to grow stevia on a window, then choose a wide, not too deep, large pot, transplant one strong sprout into it and place it in the sunniest and warmest place, perhaps on the balcony. Typically, planting is done when the air temperature during the day rises to +15-29 degrees. It is advisable to plant in the evening and cover the plants from the bright sun the next day. A dense planting is preferred. Immediately the plant needs to be hilled up to a height of 1/3 of the length of the trunk and watered well. This is almost all the information on how to grow stevia. With regular weed removal, watering and fertilizing, you can expect a good harvest of sweet foliage. Do not forget that this plant is originally a perennial, so it is advisable to dig up the roots in the fall and store them in the cellar until next year. Some can be planted in pots so that you have fresh leaves in winter.

Winter storage

After harvesting, the rhizomes should be dug up along with the ground and dried. After that, take a large box and pour soil into it, put the crusts on top and cover it with moist soil right up to the stumps. This is how stevia overwinters. Care consists of maintaining the correct temperature conditions. At temperatures above +8, premature growth will begin, and temperatures below +4 are fraught with death of the roots.

You have one last task left - to prepare the collected stems. To do this, they are simply collected in bunches and hung to dry in a shaded place. After complete drying, you can put it in a linen bag and take it out as needed. The resulting raw materials are ground in a coffee grinder and added to various dishes to taste. Judging by the reviews, the herbal taste in drinks is almost invisible. This is how amazing stevia is. Its application is very wide - cocktails and jelly desserts, drinks and favorite pastries (sweet, but without extra calories).

Stevia extract

For your own convenience, prepare a syrup or extract that you can add to your taste in various dishes. To do this, you need to pour whole leaves with alcohol or regular vodka and leave for a day. Don't worry, you won't have to drink alcohol. The next day, carefully filter the infusion from leaves and powder. If necessary, repeat this procedure. To evaporate all the alcohol, you need to heat the resulting infusion. To do this, pour into a metal bowl and place on low heat; the mixture should not boil. The alcoholic substances gradually evaporate, and you are left with a pure extract. An aqueous extract can be prepared similarly, but the beneficial substances are not extracted as completely as in the case of alcohol. But by evaporating the water, you can achieve a high concentration. The properties of stevia do not deteriorate from heating.

Adults and children need a certain dose of sweets, because sugar is necessary for the full development and functioning of body systems. There are many sugar-containing products, but not all of them are healthy. Those with a sweet tooth run the risk of increasing their volume and acquiring a whole bunch of diseases. In general, everyone loves sweets, but they also want to have a good figure and good health. Are these things really incompatible? Compatible if you include the natural sweetener stevia in the menu instead of the usual sugar.

Stevia is a plant-based sugar substitute, and not the only one of its kind. But if you study the properties, then it can be called a leader among all similar products. If anyone thinks that we are talking about an overseas miracle plant, then they are deeply mistaken. An ordinary herb of the chrysanthemum genus looks like a small bush. It was originally cultivated in Paraguay and Brazil, but very quickly spread throughout the globe. Today, about three hundred varieties and species of this plant are known. I wonder what the benefits and harms of stevia are, is it worth replacing a product beloved by many with it?

Her homeland is South America. The Indians who inhabited the named area were the first to discover honey grass. They started adding it to mate to make the drink sweeter. It is called by different names in different parts of the world: Paraguayan sweet grass, Erva Doce, Ka'a-yupe, honey leaf. The Guarani Indians used the green leaves of stevia as a sweetener and for medicinal purposes.

Europeans learned about the plant in the 16th century, and the Spaniards were the first. Over time, the discovery attracted the interest of scientists, although this did not happen very soon.

It was only in 1887 that Dr. Bertoni first described the properties of the stevia plant in a book about the flora of Paraguay. By 1908, it began to be cultivated in different countries. In 1931, French scientists identified steviosides and rebaudiosides (substances that make stevia sweet). During the Second World War, the question was raised about replacing the usual sugar with it, which was sorely in short supply. The first scientific work on stevia dates back to 1955, which addressed issues of its structure and benefits. In 1970-1971, when the use of artificial sweeteners was banned in Japan, stevia began to be produced in large quantities. Since 2008, it has been an officially approved food additive in the United States.

Today, stevia is used as a natural sweetener in foods.

Such rapid popularization of the product should not leave even a shadow of doubt about its exceptional properties. However, before you start using stevia instead of sugar in your home, it wouldn’t hurt to take a closer look at it.

Composition of stevia and its beneficial properties for human health

The composition contains various useful substances, such as amino acids, vitamins, pectins, essential oils. It contains glycosides that do not harm the human body and are a source of unnecessary calories. They often talk about Stevia tea: the benefits and harms of which are determined by the properties of the plant itself. The drink contains substances that take part in the structure of hormones. Due to the absence of carbohydrates, the grass can be used in the diet of diabetics.

Stevia sugar also contains a large amount of antioxidants such as rutin, quercetin, and also contains minerals (potassium, magnesium, chromium, copper, selenium, phosphorus). As for vitamins, the most abundant vitamins found in stevia were B vitamins, as well as A, C and E.

How and to whom is stevia useful?

The main feature that honey has is that it does not fill the body with empty carbohydrates. And this is exactly what regular sugar does. In addition, it is a source of useful substances and microelements. Stevia is also a medicinal herb, as it has a beneficial effect on systems and organs. It occupies a special place in the diet of hypertensive patients and diabetics.

Nature has endowed the plant with truly unique properties:

Despite all the positive aspects, you should not introduce it into your diet thoughtlessly. We need to think more about the benefits and harms of the honey herb stevia, and study the contraindications.

By the way, due to its low calorie content, it is popular among people watching their figure. The benefit in the fight against extra pounds lies in the ability to dull the feeling of hunger. Even an infusion of herbs will help you look great: constant use helps remove waste, get rid of toxins and improve the functioning of the body. Chicory with stevia has proven itself well: the drink is not only healthy, but also tasty.

Harm of stevia to the human body

Scientists from different countries have conducted a number of studies that prove that proper use of the herb will not harm your health.

Such rules must be studied and followed, and you should start with what are the benefits and harms of the herb stevia; warnings for use are of particular interest. People prone to allergic reactions need to be careful. You must carefully monitor your well-being while taking the plant and adhere to the following rules:

To avoid harm to yourself or your loved ones, you should obtain medical advice before starting to take the product. If you have any more questions, then in a conversation with your doctor you can raise the topic of Stevia tablets: benefits and harms, features of their use. Most likely, he will give useful recommendations taking into account the patient's health condition.

How to replace sugar for a child?

Almost all children are crazy about sweets, and this is not without reason, because sugar causes addiction, which can be compared to a drug addiction. Although children are told about caries, they themselves experience acute toothache, but they are not able to refuse the treat. Artificial sugar substitutes are even more harmful. And parents, in search of an alternative, should pay attention to the sweetener Stevia: the benefits and harms of which have been proven by scientists.

The flora is rich and diverse. The simplest and most accessible plants often contain the greatest amount of useful substances that people constantly need. Nowadays society prefers to be treated with chemicals and not waste time studying and collecting medicinal plants. But did you know that many of the expensive medicines purchased are based on natural raw materials?

Most often, traditional medicine uses chamomile, sage, oak bark, lemon balm, mint, and calendula. But not everyone has heard about another useful plant that is widely used in alternative medicine.

We are talking about a natural sweetener - stevia (or honey grass), which is not only rich in stevioside, but also helps prevent a number of diseases and strengthen the immune system.

People who control their weight and those with diabetes should be familiar with stevia, because this low-calorie and naturally sweet herb can improve the taste of tea, coffee, desserts or baked goods. And the composition of stevia deservedly allows it to be called one of the most valuable medicinal plants.

This easy-to-grow plant originates from Central and South America, where stevia was used by indigenous people for food purposes and for making decoctions. The benefits and harms of stevia were discovered to Europeans only at the beginning of the last century.

Stevia is a perennial plant of the Asteraceae family and has more than 500 varieties. In the wild, the plant can reach half a meter in height, but cultivated varieties of stevia grow much taller. Stevia has small leaves, and the herb blooms with small white flowers.

Stevia grows best in the fresh air; it loves sun and plenty of watering. Growing it in your garden will not be difficult, and stevia seeds can be bought at any specialty store.

For industrial purposes, stevia is grown in Crimea and the Krasnodar region. It is in demand in the food industry and cosmetology, but most often stevia is used for medical purposes. The high content of natural steviosides, which are several hundred times sweeter than regular sugar, allows you to go on a diet without giving up sweets. And even improve your health, because stevia has a beneficial effect on the pancreas, improves digestion and appetite, and helps with hypertension and diabetes. Stevia wraps and masks based on it tighten pores, cleanse and disinfect the skin, and accelerate wound healing.

In traditional medicine, stevia is sold in the form of tablets, sugar-like powder, liquid syrup (stevia extract), and dried leaves. But fresh stevia leaves grown at home are most valued. Their natural sweetness allows you to improve the taste of salads, desserts, drinks and even baked goods or jam, because steviol glycosides retain all their benefits and are not destroyed even at temperatures up to 180°.

Composition and benefits of stevia

Stevia belongs to the class of the lowest-calorie products, because 100 g of this herb contains only 18 calories! According to this indicator, it left behind even fresh cabbage with its 23-28 kcal.

By including stevia in your diet, you can not only diversify it, but also speed up the breakdown of fats. So those losing weight should definitely take note of this plant.

The benefits of stevia are associated with its unique composition. It contains a lot of vitamins (riboflavin, C, B6, K, beta-carotene, nicotinic acid) and minerals (fluorine, selenium, calcium, chromium, manganese, aluminum, phosphorus, cobalt), polysaccharides, glycosides, fiber, tannins, vegetable fats, arachidonic acid, flavonoids, essential oils (camphor oil, limonene), pectin, amino acids and beneficial bitters.

What are the benefits of stevia:

Stevia becomes a real salvation for people with diabetes and who cannot imagine life without sweets. Many manufacturers add it to diabetic products - chocolate, cookies, yoghurts. The natural sweetness of stevia does not harm diabetics; their bodies respond well to this sweetener.

This medicinal plant has almost no prohibitions on consumption. Regarding
fresh plant, then the only contraindication can be individual intolerance to stevia. If an allergy occurs, its consumption should be stopped. At the beginning of use, other negative reactions are possible in the form of indigestion, bloating, stomach or intestinal disorders, dizziness, and muscle pain. This is why you should consult your doctor before adding stevia to your diet.

You should not overuse stevia and add it to all dishes without exception, because reactions to an excess of sweet foods, even with such a natural sweetener, can also be the most unpredictable.

Do not forget that stevia leads to a decrease in sugar, so while taking it you need to constantly check its amount in the blood.

People with hypotension should also consume stevia carefully to avoid further decrease in blood pressure.

If you purchase stevia at the pharmacy in the form of tablets or powder, then make sure that they do not contain methanol and ethanol, which are usually used to reduce the sweetness of the resulting stevia extract. Their toxic effects can harm the body.