Stevia: the benefits and harms of a unique herb for human health. Where to buy and how much is stevia

stevia- bushy grass from the Astrov family. Grows naturally in Latin America. The plant is grown on plantations in order to obtain sweet substances that replace traditional sugar. Stevia raw materials and preparations have a low energy value and do not contain a glucose group. Therefore, with regular use, they do not increase blood sugar levels. Recommended for use in diabetes and those who want to get rid of excess weight. 50-300 times sweeter than sugar. Does not harm health. Plant extracts are distinguished by good culinary qualities, they are used in the food industry and at home, for baking and confectionery. It is known that stevia is unpretentious, can be grown at home. Regular use of honey grass strengthens the body and improves tone. For health, it is the #1 sweetener in the world!

Stevia - what is it?

Stevia is only called an herb. In fact, it is a perennial shrub. Its height reaches 120 cm. The accepted classification refers the Stevia genus to the numerous Astrov family, the Astroflower order, and the Dicotyledon class.

Rice. 1. Stevia plant inflorescences

Stevia has a stem up to 1.5 cm thick. The bush is well pubescent, its shape is different, depending on the place of growth and the method of cultivation. Paired leaves, saturated green, have rounded serrated edges. During the flowering period, stevia is covered with small white, sometimes with a pinkish tinge, inflorescences (Fig. 1). Ripe seeds are small, brownish or grayish in color.

The Stevia genus includes 241 species, but only one of them - Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni or honey stevia - is grown and processed on an industrial scale. Only the leaves of the shrub go into processing, they are harvested immediately before flowering, when the concentration of sweet substances is highest.

Where does it grow?

Stevia comes from Latin America. Stevia prefers light soils with low salinity, semi-arid climates and plenty of sun. The natural habitat is the elevated plateaus and foothills of the South American continent. The largest amount of wild stevia is found in Paraguay. The same countries grow raw materials on plantations that are considered the best in quality (Fig. 2).

Rice. 2. Honey bush plantation in Brazil

Stevia has taken root well in Southeast Asia. Since the 90s of the last century, it has been actively cultivated in many countries of this region. Today, the main supplier of stevia to the world market is China.

The chemical composition of stevia

The leaves of this shrub contain many useful elements.

Tab. 1. Stevia. Chemical composition

Components
Plant polyphenols (flavonoids)
Green and yellow pigment
Glycosides
free sugars
Hydroxycinnamic acids
Amino acids
Trace elements (zinc, potassium, magnesium, iodine, selenium, etc.)
B vitamins, also A, C, D, E, K, P

Stevia is sweetened by glycosides (https://ru.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glycosides). Organic origin, belong to the class of essential sugars. Included in many plants. Usually the highest concentration is reached in flowers and leaves. The main difference from conventional refined sugar lies in the fact that these organic compounds do not have a glucose group in their chemical structure. As a result - The use of stevia does not lead to a sharp increase in blood glucose.

Essential sugars make up an extensive group of substances with different characteristics. Some compounds are extremely bitter, while others are very sweet. Stevia leaves accumulate 11 types of glycosides, which have a sweet taste, but with a bitter note. This is why fresh and dried leaves have a bitter, licorice flavor. The dry and liquid extracts obtained as a result of deep processing are spared from this disadvantage. Since they fully correspond to the taste of ordinary refined sugar, and do not harm the body.

Each of the 11 glycosides received its own name.

Tab. 2. Stevia: characteristics of glycosides

Glycoside		Sweetness (so many times the glycoside is sweeter than regular sugar)
Stevioside
Rebaudoside A
Rebaudoside B
Rebaudoside C
Rebaudoside D
Rebaudoside E
Rebaudoside F		No data
rubusoside
Stviolmonoside		No data
Steviolbioside H
Steviolbioside b - Gic

Glycosides are united by a common industrial name - " Steviol". The table shows that the bulk of essential sugars are stevioside and rebaudoside A. These components are the basis for the production of dry concentrated extracts.

honey grass calories

Its leaves are low in calories. Of course, fiber and other carbohydrate elements have energy value. However, sweet components - steviols - are characterized strong chemical bond sugar and carbohydrate (non-sugar) groups. Therefore, in the digestive system, the breakdown of this bond occurs very slowly. In addition, essential sugars and sucrose have a different nature. Unlike sucrose, steviol in the process of assimilation does not form the main source of energy - glucose. As a result, the calorie content of "honey grass" is only 18 kcal per 100 g.

Products of deep processing of raw materials consist of almost pure glycosides. Therefore, their calorie content can be ignored.

Release forms

Manufacturers offer stevia in a different state of aggregation, and with varying degrees of processing. First of all, it is dried leaves (Fig. 3) and powder from it. Then, extracts and concentrates of the bush. Stevia is used as the main sweetener in a range of foods or is available separately.

Rice. 3. Dried Sweetener Leaves

Dry

We mean, first of all, products of deep processing of raw materials. These are crystalline, powdery substances with a high percentage of steviol. Consisting of 97% Rebaudoside A, REB 97A Stevia Powder is considered the purest dry extract. Because of their extreme sweetness, they find their main use in the production of mass products.

Often used in a mixture with other sweeteners - sucralose, sorbitol, fructose. This allows you to maintain the usual dosage and, at the same time, reduce calorie content.

Liquid

Steviols are highly soluble in water. This allows you to achieve the desired sweetness of the solution. To do this, it is enough to mix the active substance with the liquid in the desired proportion. Here, too, mixtures with other sweeteners are in use. easy to pack and practical to use.

Extract in tablets

The difference between tablets with an extract (Fig. 4) and their medicinal "brothers" is that they should not be swallowed and washed down with water, but, on the contrary, thrown into a hot drink, and then drink the liquid. This form of release of the drug is convenient for selecting an individual dose. This feature is especially useful for people with diabetes.

Rice. 4. Stevia tablets

Stevia - benefits and harms. What are the contraindications?

The benefits and harms of honey grass for human health have been studied extremely deeply. Laboratory studies and practice of use show that for most people stevia is absolutely safe. At the same time, the ill-conceived use of a herbal preparation can cause an unpleasant reaction. Here are the cases in which stevia can cause damage to health:

there is always the possibility of individual intolerance to the drug; if you feel unwell, immediately stop taking and consult a doctor;
excessive overdose, in some cases, leads to nausea and even vomiting;
combining with dairy products (causes diarrhea);
if a person suffers from a blood disease, hormonal disorders or a mental disorder, the reception is possible strictly according to the doctor's prescription;
diabetic patients should necessarily consult with an endocrinologist regarding the admissibility of taking the drug;
blood pressure may decrease, hypotensive patients should take this into account;
although very rare, allergic reactions do occur.

Do you know that...?

Until recently, stevia was suspected of being mutagenic and causing cancer. Only the intervention of the World Health Organization, which initiated additional thorough research, allowed the charges against the sweet bush to be dropped. Proven to be completely safe Stevia. As for neoplasms, it turned out that stevioside, on the contrary, block the development of cancer cells.

In general, it has been proven that even a significant overdose does not lead to serious consequences.

What are the benefits of stevia? Medicinal and beneficial properties

The list of positive qualities is so extensive and diverse that it will be more convenient to divide useful properties into thematic groups.

Nutritional Benefits

Pleasant sweet taste. Despite the bitter taste, many people like tea brewed with stevia leaves. It is enough to throw a couple of leaves into a glass of boiling water, so that in a minute you get a pleasant, tasty drink. On sale, most often, there are dry leaves of a shrub or their extract. You can make tea leaves from this and add it to hot water or put a teaspoon of powder directly into a glass. Not everyone likes particles floating on the surface. In this case, you can use paper bags (sachets) with powder.
High temperature resistance. Raw materials and plant preparations have excellent temperature characteristics. Stevia does not lose its inherent properties when heated to 200 0 C. This allows you to add liquid or dry extracts to hot drinks, pastries, confectionery.
A good preservative. The herb is increasingly being used in home and industrial canning. It has bactericidal properties. This has been scientifically proven. Replacing sucrose in spins and canned food reduces the risk of product spoilage by mold and other biological pests.
Long shelf life. Raw materials and preparations are stored for up to 10 years without any changes in quality. Low consumption allows you to make room for other products.

Preventive and curative benefits

The healing properties of the miracle shrub were noted even by the Indians of Latin America. Such treatment was popular: chewing the leaves to clean the mouth and strengthen the enamel of the teeth, use the infusion of the plant to disinfect and speed up the healing process of scratches and wounds.

Do you know that...?

In Paraguay, residents consume, on average, 10 kg of sweet grass leaves per year. The country has one of the lowest rates of diabetes, with a low percentage of obese people. Since the leaves of stevia contain all the healing properties necessary for the body.

It is necessary to emphasize the positive effects that are manifested due to the two main qualities of the plant extract - low calorie content and the inability to significantly affect blood sugar. Stevia is good for:

Stevia on the market is diverse and has varying degrees of sweetness. An inexperienced person can easily get confused about the dosage. To prevent this from happening, the table shows the proportional correspondence of stevia preparations to the sugar equivalent.

Tab. 3. The ratio of dosages of stevia and regular sugar

regular sugar	Stevioside	liquid extract
1 teaspoon	On the tip of a knife	2 - 6 drops	1/4 teaspoon
1 tablespoon	On the tip of a knife	1/8 teaspoon	3/4 teaspoon
	1/2 - 1/3 teaspoon	1/2 teaspoon	2 tablespoons

Honey grass for diet and weight loss

Stevia, whose benefits for digestion are undeniable, is included in special diets. A special diet is prescribed in the treatment of certain diseases, such as diabetes. All ingredients included in the dietary menu pursue a single therapeutic goal. The role of the sweetener is to reduce the total calorie content of the diet and stabilize blood sugar levels.

The extract fits well into the list of products that help to lose weight. Those who want to lose weight should give up sweets, which is not for everyone. Sweet grass compensates for this need. At the same time, it contains many useful elements and a minimum of calories. Its action improves the general condition and does not affect weight.

Another important advantage is that stevioside preparations do not provoke an increase in appetite. Studies have shown that stevia is just as satiating as sugary foods.

Do you know that...?

Stevia is easy to grow at home, on the windowsill. To do this, you must observe the temperature regime - not lower than 15 0 C, place the pot on the south side and water regularly. The shrub does not sprout well from seeds, it is better to take seedlings.

Stevia benefits for diabetes

Stevia helps to solve a number of problems that inevitably arise before every diabetic.

Patients with diabetes experience discomfort from the ban on sweets. Stevia fills this gap in taste. It is 50-300 times sweeter than sugar. Diabetics can use the plant to sweeten drinks and foods without the risk of spikes in blood sugar levels.
In addition to the usual products - leaves, powders, liquid and dry extracts - the market offers a wide range of products where refined sugar is replaced by stevia. Low-calorie bars, confectionery, pastries, drinks allow patients to lead their usual way of life, not to feel deprived of something.
The problem of weight loss is solved. Complete rejection of refined sugar greatly reduces the total caloric content of the diet, contributes to the normalization of body weight. Sweetener does not increase appetite. Thus, the problem of bouts of hunger is removed.
The microcirculation of blood vessels improves, which relieves cramps in the limbs. The most important thing is that stevia normalizes the level of glucose in the body, and even contributes to its decrease.

honey herb during pregnancy

Doctors do not prohibit taking stevia during pregnancy. During this period, women's sugar levels rise. This worries many, as it is accompanied by dry mouth, increased pressure and appetite. Honey grass will help normalize blood pressure in pregnant women and relieve unpleasant symptoms.

Special studies on the effects of plant preparations on the health of pregnant women have not been conducted. But it is known for certain that stevia does not adversely affect the development of the fetus.

Can children take stevioside?

Pediatricians have no complaints about stevia, and nutritionists recommend including it in children's diets. In the children's menu, replacing refined sugar with “honey grass” provides a number of advantages:

this is an excellent prevention of diabetes, the child's pancreas is freed from excessive sugar load;
low calorie content helps to maintain normal weight;
honey grass protects against such a sugar misfortune as caries, on the contrary, it strengthens tooth enamel;
stevia extracts for the body (unlike regular sugar) are not addictive, babies do not require more and more sweets;
cases of allergy to stevia are extremely rare.

Stevia in cooking

The sweet components of the herb have a high chemical stability. They do not break down at high temperatures. If we add to this good solubility in liquids, then the conclusion follows - stevia can completely replace refined sugar in cooking. Here are some recipes:

Tea

Dry leaves or Stevia powder - 1 teaspoon - pour boiling water and leave for 20-30 minutes. You can drink. If the drink is cold, reheat in the microwave. It is more practical to make a concentrated leaf tea in a small teapot, and then add it to a glass or mug of boiling water as needed. Tea (Fig. 5) has a slightly unusual, but pleasant taste.

Rice. 5. Tea with stevia

Bakery products

Cookies

We take: a teaspoon of liquid extract, 1 egg, two glasses of flour, half a glass of milk, 50 g of butter, salt, soda;
Add the ingredients to one container and knead the dough;
Roll out the mass to the desired thickness and cut into shape;
We put in the oven, temperature 200 0 C, until cooked.

Cookie

You will need: flour - 2 cups; water - 1 glass; butter - 250 g; stevioside - 4 tablespoons; 1 egg; salt;
We knead the dough;
We roll out the dough, form cookies and send it to the oven, heated to 200 0 C.

Jam and compotes

Strawberry compote

take a liter jar and pour washed strawberries into it, to the top;
prepare a solution; in 250 ml of water add 5 tbsp. spoons of stevia infusion; boil;
pour strawberries with hot solution and pasteurize for 10 minutes.

Preparation of infusion and syrup from honey grass

Infusion. We put leaves in a gauze bag - 100 g. Place it in a container and pour half a liter of boiling water into it. We endure the day. Drain the resulting liquid into a separate bowl. Add another half-liter of water to the leaves and boil again for 50 minutes. Mix both liquids and filter from the leaves. The resulting infusion can be added to any dishes. It improves health well.

Syrup. It is necessary to take the infusion and evaporate it in a water bath until it acquires a viscous consistency. Readiness can be determined by the degree of spreading of a drop of liquid on a solid surface.

The syrup is added to hot or soft drinks and confectionery.

02.02.2018

Here you will learn all the details about the sweetener called stevia: what it is, what are the health benefits and possible harm from its use, how it is used in cooking, and much more. It has been used as a sweetener and as a medicinal herb in cultures around the world for centuries, but in recent decades it has gained particular popularity as a sugar substitute for diabetics and for weight loss. Stevia has been further studied, studies have been conducted in order to identify its medicinal properties and contraindications for use.

What is stevia?

Stevia is an herb of South American origin whose leaves are used to produce a natural sweetener in powdered or liquid form due to their strong sweetness.

Stevia leaves are about 10-15 times and leaf extract 200-350 times sweeter than regular sugar. Stevia has almost zero calories and contains no carbohydrates. This has made it a popular option for sweetening a variety of foods and drinks for those looking to lose weight or are on a low-carb diet.

What does stevia look like - photo

general description

Stevia is a small perennial herb that belongs to the Asteraceae family and the genus Stevia. Its scientific name is Stevia rebaudiana.

Some other names for stevia are honey grass, sweet biennial.

There are 150 species of this plant, all of which are native to North and South America.

Stevia grows 60-120 cm in height, it has thin, branched stems. It grows well in temperate climates and in parts of tropical regions. Stevia is grown commercially in Japan, China, Thailand, Paraguay, and Brazil. Today, China is the leading exporter of these products.

Almost all parts of the plant are sweet, but most of the sweetness is concentrated in the dark green serrated leaves.

How is stevia obtained?

Stevia plants usually start their lives in a greenhouse. When they reach 8-10 cm, they are planted in the field.

When little white flowers appear, the stevia is ready to be harvested.

After harvesting, the leaves are dried. The sweetness is released from the leaves through a process that involves soaking them in water, filtering and purifying, and drying them, resulting in a crystallized stevia leaf extract.

Sweet compounds - stevioside and rebaudioside - are isolated and extracted from stevia leaves and further processed into powder, capsule or liquid form.

What is the smell and taste of stevia

Raw, unprocessed stevia often has a bitter taste and an unpleasant odor. After processing, bleaching or discoloration, it acquires a soft, licorice flavor.

Many who have tried stevia sweetener can't help but agree that it has a bitter aftertaste. Some even believe that bitterness is enhanced when stevia is added to hot drinks. It's a little hard to get used to, but it's possible.

Depending on the manufacturer and form of stevia, this aftertaste may be less pronounced or absent altogether.

How to choose and where to buy good stevia

Stevia-based sugar substitutes are sold in several forms:

powder;
granules;
tablets;
liquid.

The price of stevia varies greatly depending on the type and brand.

When buying stevia, read the ingredients on the package to make sure it's 100% pure. Many manufacturers supplement it with artificial sweeteners based on chemicals, which can significantly reduce the benefits of stevia. Brands that contain dextrose (glucose) or maltodextrin (starch) should be treated with caution.

Some of the products labeled "Stevia" are not actually pure extract and may contain only a small percentage. Always read labels if you care about health benefits and want to buy quality products.

Stevia extract in powder and liquid form is 200 times sweeter than sugar than its whole or dried ground leaves, which are anywhere from 10 to 40 times sweeter.

Liquid stevia may contain alcohol, and are often available in vanilla or hazelnut flavors.

Some powdered stevia products contain inulin, a natural plant fiber.

A good version of stevia can be purchased at a pharmacy, health supply store, or this online store.

How and how much stevia is stored

The shelf life of stevia-based sweeteners usually depends on the form of the product: powder, tablets, or liquid.

Each brand of stevia sweetener has its own recommended shelf life for their products, which can be up to three years from the date of manufacture. Check the label for more details.

The chemical composition of stevia

The herb stevia is very low in calories, contains less than five grams of carbohydrates, and is thought to have almost 0 kcal. At the same time, its dry leaves are about 40 times sweeter than sugar. This sweetness is due to the content of several glycosidic compounds:

stevioside;
steviolbioside;
rebaudiosides A and E;
dulcoside.

Two compounds are mainly responsible for the sweet taste:

Rebaudioside A is the most commonly extracted and used in stevia powders and sweeteners, but it's usually not the only ingredient. Most stevia sweeteners on the market contain additives such as erythritol from corn, dextrose, or other artificial sweeteners.
Stevioside makes up about 10% of the sweetness in stevia, but gives it an unusual bitter aftertaste that many people don't like. It also has most of the health benefits of stevia that have been attributed to it and are the most well-researched.

Stevioside is a non-carbohydrate glycosidic compound. Therefore, it does not have the properties of sucrose and other carbohydrates. Stevia extract, like rebaudioside A, was found to be 300 times sweeter than sugar. In addition, it has several unique properties such as long shelf life, high temperature resistance.

The stevia plant contains many sterols and antioxidant compounds such as triterpenes, flavonoids, and tannins.

Here are some of the flavonoid polyphenolic antioxidant phytochemicals present in stevia:

kaempferol;
quercetin;
chlorogenic acid;
caffeic acid;
isoquercetin;
isosteviol.

Stevia contains many vital minerals, vitamins that are usually missing from artificial sweeteners.

Studies have shown that the kaempferol found in stevia can reduce the risk of pancreatic cancer by 23% (American Journal of Epidemiology).

Chlorogenic acid reduces the enzymatic conversion of glycogen to glucose in addition to reducing intestinal absorption of glucose. Thus, it helps to lower blood sugar levels. Laboratory studies also confirm a decrease in blood glucose levels and an increase in the concentration of glucose-6-phosphate in the liver and glycogen.

Certain glycosides in stevia extract have been found to dilate blood vessels, increase sodium excretion, and increase urine output. In fact, stevia, at slightly higher doses than as a sweetener, can lower blood pressure.

As a non-carbohydrate sweetener, stevia did not promote the growth of Streptococcus mutans bacteria in the mouth, which is attributed to causing cavities.

Stevia as a sweetener - the benefits and harms

What makes stevia so popular with people with type 2 diabetes is that it sweetens food without raising blood glucose levels. This sugar substitute has practically no calories and carbohydrates, so not only diabetics, but also healthy people are not averse to introducing it into their daily diet.

Can stevia be used for diabetes and healthy people

Stevia can be used by diabetics as an alternative to sugar. It is better than any other substitute as it is derived from a natural plant extract and does not contain any carcinogenic or any other harmful substances. However, endocrinologists recommend that their patients try to cut back on sweeteners or avoid them altogether.

For healthy people, stevia is not required, as the body itself is able to limit sugar and produce insulin. In such a case, the best option would be to limit your sugar intake rather than use other sweeteners.

Stevia diet pills - negative review

In the 1980s, animal studies were conducted that concluded that stevia may be carcinogenic and cause fertility problems, but the evidence remained inconclusive. In 2008, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) determined a purified stevia extract (specifically rebaudioside A) to be safe.

However, whole leaves or crude stevia extract have not been approved for use in foods and beverages due to a lack of research. However, numerous testimonials from people claim that whole leaf stevia is a safe alternative to sugar or its artificial counterparts. The experience of using this herb for centuries in Japan and South America as a natural sweetener and health product confirms this.

And although leaf stevia is not approved for commercial distribution, it is still grown for home use and is actively used in cooking.

Comparison of which is better: stevia, xylitol or fructose

stevia	Xylitol	Fructose
Stevia is the only natural, calorie-free, zero-glycemic alternative to sugar.	Xylitol is found in mushrooms, fruits and vegetables. For commercial production, it is extracted from birch and corn.	Fructose is a natural sweetener found in honey, fruits, berries and vegetables.
Does not increase blood sugar levels and does not cause an increase in triglycerides or cholesterol levels.	The glycemic index is low, slightly raising blood sugar levels when consumed.	She has a low glycemic index, but at the same time there is a rapid transformation into lipids, the level of cholesterol and triglycerides increases.
Unlike artificial sweeteners, it does not contain harmful chemicals.		May increase blood pressure.
Stevia can help with weight loss because it contains no calories.		When consumed in excess of foods containing fructose, obesity, heart and liver problems occur.

Health Benefits of Stevia

As a result of the study of stevia, its medicinal properties were revealed:

For diabetes

Studies have shown that the stevia sweetener does not add calories or carbohydrates to the diet. Its glycemic index is zero (meaning that stevia does not affect blood sugar levels). This allows diabetics to eat more varied foods and still eat a healthy diet.

For weight loss

There are many causes of overweight and obesity: physical inactivity and increased consumption of energy-dense foods high in fat and sugars. Stevia contains no sugar and is very low in calories. It can be part of a balanced weight loss diet to reduce energy intake without sacrificing taste.

With oncological diseases

Stevia contains many sterols and antioxidant compounds, including kaempferol, which has been shown to reduce the risk of pancreatic cancer by 23%.

With hypertension

The glycosides contained in stevia are able to dilate blood vessels. They also increase sodium excretion and act as a diuretic. A 2003 study showed that stevia could potentially help lower blood pressure. But further research is needed to confirm this beneficial property.

So, the health benefits of stevia require further study before they can be confirmed. However, rest assured that stevia is safe for diabetics when consumed as an alternative to sugar.

Contraindications (harm) and side effects of stevia

The benefits and possible harms of stevia depend on what form you prefer to consume and on its amount. There is a huge difference between pure extract and chemically processed foods with a small percentage of stevia added.

But even if you choose high-quality stevia, it is not recommended to consume more than 3-4 milligrams per kilogram of body weight per day.

Here are the main side effects that can cause harm to health due to excess dosage:

If you have low blood pressure, stevia can cause it to drop even more.
Some liquid forms of stevia contain alcohol, and people with alcohol sensitivities may experience bloating, nausea, and diarrhea.
Anyone allergic to ragweed, marigolds, chrysanthemums, and daisies may have a similar allergic reaction to stevia, since this herb is from the same family.

In one animal study, excessive consumption of stevia was found to reduce the fertility of male rats. But since this only happens when it is consumed in high doses, this effect may not be seen in humans.

Stevia during pregnancy

Adding a drop of stevia to a cup of tea from time to time is unlikely to cause harm, but it is best not to use it during pregnancy or while breastfeeding due to the lack of research in this area. In cases where pregnant women need sugar substitutes, it is recommended to use them without exceeding the dosage.

The use of stevia in cooking

Worldwide, over 5,000 food and drink products currently contain stevia as an ingredient:

ice cream;
desserts;
sauces;
yogurts;
pickled foods;
bread;
soft drinks;
chewing gum;
candies;
seafood.

Stevia is well suited for cooking and baking, unlike some artificial and chemical sweeteners that break down at high temperatures. It not only sweetens, but also enhances the taste of products.

Stevia is heat tolerant up to 200 C, making it an ideal sugar substitute for many recipes:

In powder form, it is ideal for baking, as it is similar in texture to sugar.
Liquid Stevia Concentrate is ideal for liquid dishes such as soups, stews and sauces.

How to Use Stevia as a Sugar Substitute

Stevia can be used in place of regular sugar in foods and drinks.

1 teaspoon sugar = 1/8 teaspoon powdered stevia = 5 drops liquid
1 tablespoon sugar = 1/3 teaspoon powdered stevia = 15 drops liquid stevia
1 cup sugar = 2 tablespoons stevia powder = 2 teaspoons liquid stevia.

The sugar-to-stevia ratio can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, so read the packaging before adding any sweetener. Using too much of this sweetener can result in a noticeable bitter taste.

General instructions for the use of stevia

In almost any recipe, you can use stevia, for example, cook jam or jam, bake cookies. To do this, use the universal tips on how to replace sugar with stevia:

Step 1 . Combine the ingredients as directed in the recipe until you get to the sugar. Replace sugar with stevia according to the form you have. Since stevia is much sweeter than sugar, an equivalent replacement is not possible. See previous section for measurement.
Step 2. Since the amount of stevia to replace is much less than sugar, more other ingredients will need to be added to make up for the weight loss and balance the dish. For each cup of sugar you've replaced, add 1/3 cup of a liquid such as applesauce, yogurt, fruit juice, egg whites, or water (whatever is in the recipe).
Step 3 Mix all other ingredients and follow the rest of the recipe.

An important nuance: if you intend to make jam or puree with stevia, then they will have a rather short shelf life (maximum one week in the refrigerator). For long term storage, freeze them.

To get a thick consistency of the product, you will also need a gelling agent - pectin.

Sugar is one of the most dangerous ingredients in food. This is why alternative natural sweeteners such as stevia are becoming more and more popular as they are not harmful to health.

Stevia rebaudiana
Taxon: Aster family ( Asteraceae) or Compositae ( composites)
Other names: honey grass, sweet biennial
English: Stevia, Sweet Leaf of Paraguay, Azucacaa, Capim Doce, Erva Doce, Sweet-herb, Honey Yerba, Honeyleaf, Candy Leaf

Description

Stevia is a perennial herbaceous shrub that grows up to 1 m in height and has leaves 2-3 cm long.
Stevia is a subtropical plant that requires a semi-humid climate with an average temperature of 24°C. For growth and lush flowering, it needs about 140 mm of precipitation per year. Prefers sandy or loamy, acidic, constantly moist, but not flooded soils. Stevia does not tolerate saline soils. Stevia is propagated by seeds, root division and stem taps. This miraculous plant is also known as "honey leaf", "sweet leaf" and "sweet grass".

Spreading

It is assumed that the birthplace of stevia is the northern regions of South America. In the wild, stevia is still found in the highlands of Amambay and Iguazu (the border between Brazil and Paraguay).
It is grown commercially in many parts of Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, Central America, Israel, Thailand and China.
There are about 80 wild stevia species in North America and about 200 more in South America. However, Stevia Rebaudiana is the only variety that has a naturally intense sweetness that can replace artificial sweeteners.

From the history

That just one leaf can sweeten a whole gourd filled with bitter Yerba mate tea.
Stevia was discovered in 1887 by South American naturalist Antonio Bertoni. Some of the earliest articles on stevia were published in the early 1900s.

The chemical composition of stevia

Over 100 phytochemicals have been found in stevia. It is rich in terpenes and flavonoids. In 1931, a glycoside named stevioside, which is contained in an amount of 6-18% in stevia leaves and is 300 times sweeter than sugar. Raw stevia leaves and herbal powder (green) have been found to be 10-15 times sweeter than sugar in studies.
Other sweet diterpene glycosides found in stevia: steviolbioside, rebaudioside A-E, dulcoside A

Key chemicals in stevia: apigenin, austroinulin, avicularin, beta-sitosterol, caffeic acid, campesterol, caryophyllene, centaureydin, chlorogenic acid, chlorophyll, cosmosiin, cynaroside, daucosterol, diterpene glycosides, dulcoside AB, phoeniculin, formic acid, humic acids, gibberellin, indole-3 -acetonitrile, isoquercitrin, isosteviol, jhanol, kaempferol, kaurine, lupeol, luteolin, polystachoside, quercetin, quercitrin, rebaudioside A-E, scopoletin, sterebin AG, steviol, steviolbioside, steviomonoside, stevioside, stevioside-3, stigmasterol, umbelliferol, and xanthophyll.
Mineral salts (calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, zinc, iron, cobalt, manganese).

Pharmacological properties of stevia

Hypoglycemic, hypotensive (lowers blood pressure), cardiotonic, antimicrobial, antibacterial, antiyeast, antifungal, antiviral, wound healing, tonic, sweetener,

Application in medicine

There are many medicinal uses for stevia ( Stevia rebaudiana):
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Stevia helps to lose weight and reduce cravings for fatty foods (the body does not absorb the sweetening components of stevia, respectively, and calorie intake is zero).
Adding stevia to your mouthwash and toothpaste results in improved oral health.
Stevia-induced drinks lead to and gastrointestinal functions.
Stevia's antibacterial properties help prevent minor illnesses and are used to treat minor wounds.
Stevia helps with various skin diseases.

Stevia is recommended and approved as a dietary supplement by the US Food and Drug Administration (US FDA).
In the US, stevia is primarily used as a sugar substitute. About 1/4 teaspoon of leaves (or a whole leaf) is equivalent to about 1 teaspoon of sugar.

Biological activity and clinical studies

The calorie-free natural sweetener has generated a lot of interest and a lot of research.

Toxicological studies conducted on rats, rabbits, guinea pigs and birds have confirmed the non-toxicity of stevioside. In addition, it was shown that stevioside does not provoke mutagenic changes at the cellular level or somehow affect fertility. It has been established that natural stevia leaves are non-toxic and do not have mutagenic activity.
Most clinical studies on fertility show that stevia leaves do not affect the fertility of men and women. However, one study found that an aqueous extract of stevia leaves also reduced sperm levels in male rats.

Brazilian scientists noted the ability of stevioside to lower systolic blood pressure in rats in 1991. Then, in 2000, a double-blind, placebo-controlled study was undertaken in which 106 Chinese hypertensive patients (men and women) took part. Subjects received capsules containing stevioside (250 mg) or placebo (drug illusion) three times a day. After three months, the systolic and diastolic blood pressure of the stevioside group decreased significantly, and the effect persisted throughout the year. The researchers concluded that stevioside is well tolerated and is an effective agent that can be considered as an alternative or complementary therapy for patients with hypertension.
Somewhat earlier studies of stevia extract, as well as isolated glycosides, demonstrated hypotensive and. In hypertensive rats, stevia leaf extract increased renal plasma flow, urine flow, sodium excretion, and filtration rate.

Another group of scientists from Denmark in the year 200 tested the hypoglycemic properties of glycosides, certain chemicals found in stevia. They concluded that stevioside and steviol are capable of stimulating insulin secretion through a direct action on beta cells. "The results show that stevioside and steviol have potential as hypoglycemic agents in the treatment of type 2 diabetes."
A Brazilian team of researchers noted that aqueous extracts from stevia leaves elicited a hypoglycemic effect and increased glucose tolerance in humans, reporting "significantly decreased plasma glucose levels during the trial and after an overnight fast in all volunteers."
In another study, human blood sugar levels were reduced by 35% 6-8 hours after oral ingestion of stevia leaf extract.

In another study, stevia demonstrated antimicrobial, antibacterial, antiviral, and antiyeast properties.
In a study, an aqueous extract of stevia was shown to help prevent dental caries by inhibiting Streptococcus mutans bacteria, which stimulate plaque formation. In addition, an American patent application was filed in 1993 claiming that stevia extract has the property and is effective in various skin diseases (acne, rash, itching) and diseases caused by circulatory failure.

Contraindications

Stevia leaves (at doses higher than needed for sweetening purposes) have hypoglycemic effects. Diabetic patients should use large amounts of stevia with caution and monitor blood sugar levels, medications taken may need to be adjusted.
Also, stevia leaves (at doses higher than necessary for sweetening purposes) have a hypotensive effect (lowers blood pressure). People with low blood pressure and those taking antihypertensive drugs should avoid using large amounts of stevia and keep their blood pressure levels under control.

The use of stevia in the economy

For almost 20 years, millions of consumers in Japan and Brazil, where stevia is approved as a dietary supplement, have been using stevia extracts as a safe, natural, and calorie-free sweetener. Japan is the largest consumer of stevia leaves and extracts in the world. In Japan, stevia is used to sweeten soy sauce, pickles, confectionery, and soft drinks. Even multinational giants like Coca-Cola (beverages), Wrigley's (chewing gum) and Beatrice Foods (yogurts) in Japan, Brazil and other countries where stevia is approved as a dietary supplement use stevia extracts to sweeten foods (in as a substitute for artificial sweeteners and saccharin).

stevia medicinal products

Stevia extract("Steviasan", Ukraine) - a complex phytopreparation based on the herb stevia ( Stevia Rebaudiana Bertoni) is a greenish-brown, sweet liquid, made according to a unique technology patented in Ukraine, which allows you to save all the properties of biologically active substances of a fresh plant.
The product is 100% natural, does not contain chemical additives and preservatives. Stevia extract is a whole pantry of useful biologically active substances: diterpene glycosides - stevioside, dulcoside, stelcobioside, rebadiuzide - only 8 substances of this group. Diterpene glycosides - phytosteroids are similar in structure to human hormones and are a building material for the synthesis of their own hormones, as well as for strengthening the cell membrane. Stevia extract contains flavonoids, saponins, amino acids, especially a large amount of the anti-stress amino acid proline, trace elements Ca, K, Mg, Mn, vitamins B, C, P.
It has been proven that the systematic use of stevia extract has a positive effect on all types of metabolism, normalizes blood sugar and cholesterol levels, and restores energy and mineral metabolism.
The mechanism of action is to restore enzyme systems, improve the functioning of the cell membrane, in particular, the transmembrane transfer of glucose is improved, gluconeogenesis is enhanced, and the adaptive synthesis of RNA and some enzymes is optimized. It has been proven that the use of stevia extract leads to a stable recovery of all enzymes involved in energy metabolism. The processes of lipid peroxidation, which play a significant role in the development of pathological conditions due to the formation of a large number of free radicals, have also been studied. The use of stevia extract made it possible to normalize the processes of lipid peroxidation and significantly increase the level of coenzyme Q10.
The use of stevia extract is manifested in the form of:
hypoglycemic effect;
normalization of cholesterol levels in the blood;
restoration of macroorganic compounds ATP, NADP as a result of the normalization of protein metabolism;
reducing the amount of free radicals due to the normalization of lipid peroxidation processes;
restoration of cellular and humoral immunities;
restoration of transcapillary exchange (restoration of microcirculation);
normalization of the endocrine system (the level of hormones in the blood).

Thus, stevia extract is indicated in the complex treatment of diseases associated with metabolic disorders in the body. Stevia extract is an effective means of preserving human health, regardless of age, in environmentally unfavorable regions, it is used for:
diabetes mellitus;
diseases of the liver and biliary tract (dyskinesia, cholecystitis, cholangitis);
diseases of the pancreas (pancreatitis, dyspancreatism);
atherosclerosis, hypertension of various origins;
obesity of alimentary genesis;
reduced immunity;
diseases of the gastrointestinal tract (gastritis, gastroduodenitis, dysbacteriosis);
diseases of the female and male genital area;
diseases of the oral cavity (caries, stomatitis);
blood diseases of various origins;
dysfunction of the nervous system (neurosis,

Stevia is made from the medicinal plant of the same name, which has numerous beneficial properties and is considered the sweetest plant in the world. It contains a unique molecular component called stevioside, which gives the plant an extraordinary sweetness.

Stevia is also popularly known as honey grass. All this time, the medicinal herb has been used to normalize human blood glucose and prevent diabetes. Today, stevia has gained not only popularity, but also widespread use in the food industry.

Features of the Stevia sweetener

Stevia is fifteen times sweeter than regular refined sugar, and the extract itself, which contains stevioside, can be 100-300 times the level of sweetness. This feature is used by science in order to create a natural sweetener.

However, not only this makes the natural sweetener an ideal option for diabetics. Most sweeteners made from natural and synthetic ingredients have significant drawbacks.

The main disadvantage of many sweeteners is the high calorie content of the product, which is harmful to health. Stevia, having stevioside in its composition, is considered a non-caloric sweetener.
Many low-calorie synthetic sweeteners have a nasty side effect. By changing the metabolism of sugar in the blood, there is a significant increase in body weight. The natural Stevia substitute does not have such disadvantages, unlike analogues. Studies have shown that stevioside does not affect glucose metabolism, and even, on the contrary, reduces blood sugar levels in humans.

The sweetener in some cases has a pronounced taste of leaching grass. However, today there are sweeteners that use stevioside extract.

Stevioside has no aftertaste, is widely used in the food industry, is available as a food additive and is referred to as E960. In the pharmacy, a similar sweetener can be purchased in the form of small brown tablets.

Benefits and harms of Stevia sweetener

The natural Stevia substitute is widely used today in most countries and has excellent reviews. The sweetener has become especially popular in Japan, where Stevia has been used for over thirty years, and during all this time, side effects have not been identified. Scientists from a sunny country have proven that the sweetener does not harm human health. At the same time, Stevia is used here not only as a food supplement, but is also added instead of sugar to diet drinks.

Meanwhile, in such countries, the US, Canada and the EU do not officially recognize the sweetener as a sweetener. Here Stevia is sold in the form of dietary supplements. In the food industry, the sweetener is not used, despite the fact that it does not harm human health. The main reason for this is the lack of research that confirms the safety of Stevia as a natural sweetener. At the same time, these countries are primarily interested in the sale of synthetic low-calorie substitutes, around which, despite the proven harm of these products, a lot of money is spinning.

The Japanese, in turn, proved by their research that Stevia does not harm human health. Experts say that today there are few sweeteners with such low levels of toxicity. Stevioside extract has been tested numerous times for toxicity, and all studies have shown no adverse effects on the body. As the reviews show, the drug does not harm the digestive system, does not increase body weight, does not change cells and chromosomes.

Stevioside has antibacterial functions, so it can be used in the treatment of small wounds in the form of burns, scratches and bruises. It contributes to the rapid healing of wounds, rapid blood clotting and getting rid of infection. Often, stevioside extract is used in the treatment of acne, fungal infections. Stevioside helps babies get rid of pain when their first teeth erupt, which is confirmed by numerous reviews.

Stevia is used to prevent colds, strengthens the immune system, and is an excellent tool in the treatment of diseased teeth. Stevioside extract is used to prepare Stevia tincture, which is mixed with an antiseptic decoction of calendula and horseradish tincture in a 1 to 1 ratio. Rinse your mouth with the resulting drug to relieve pain and possible suppuration.

Also Stevia, in addition to the stevioside extract, contains useful minerals, antioxidants, vitamins A, E and C, essential oils.

With prolonged use of dietary supplements, vitamin complexes, significant consumption of fruits and vegetables, hypervitaminosis or an excess of vitamins in the body can be observed. If a rash has formed on the skin, peeling has begun, you should seek the advice of a doctor.

Sometimes Stevia may not be tolerated by some people due to the individual characteristics of the body. Including the sweetener is not recommended for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. And yet, there is simply the most real and natural, which is considered the best sugar substitute.

Healthy people do not need to use Stevia as their primary food supplement. Due to the abundance of sweets in the body, insulin is released. If you maintain this state constantly, the sensitivity to an increase in sugar in the body may decrease. The main thing in this case is to adhere to the norm and not overdo it with a sweetener.

Use of Stevia in food

Natural sweetener has positive reviews and is widely used in the preparation of drinks and fruit salads, where you want to sweeten the taste. Stevia is added to jams instead of sugar, and is used in baked goods when baking.

In some cases, stevioside may be bitter. This reason is primarily associated with an excess of Stevia, which was added to the product. To get rid of the bitter taste, you need to use less sweetener when cooking. Some types of stevia plants also have a bitter taste.

To reduce body weight, drinks with the addition of stevioside extract are used, which are drunk on the eve of lunch and dinner in order to reduce appetite and eat less food. Also, drinks with a sweetener can be consumed after a meal, half an hour after a meal.

With weight loss, many use the following recipe. In the morning, you need to drink a portion of mate tea with the addition of Stevia on an empty stomach, after which you can not eat for about four hours. During lunch and dinner, you must eat only wholesome and natural food without flavorings, preservatives and white flour.

Stevia and diabetes

Ten years ago, the Stevia sweetener was declared safe for human health and public health approved the use of the sweetener in food. Stevioside extract has also been recommended as a sugar substitute for people with type 2 diabetes. Including a sweetener is very useful for hypertensive patients.

Studies have shown that Stevia improves the effects of insulin, affects the metabolism of lipids and carbohydrates. In this regard, the sweetener is an excellent sugar replacement option for diabetics, like.

When using Stevia, it is important to make sure that the product you purchase does not contain sugar or fructose. It is necessary to use bread units to accurately calculate the required dose of sweets. It must be remembered that even a natural sugar substitute, with an excess and improper use, can harm human health and increase blood glucose.

Purchase of a sweetener

You can buy a natural Stevia substitute today at any pharmacy or online store. The sweetener is sold as a stevioside extract in powder, liquid, or dried leaves of a medicinal plant.

White powder is added to tea and other liquids. However, some disadvantage is the long dissolution in water, so you need to constantly stir the drink.

Let's look at what stevia is, is its health benefits so great, is there any harm from it, and how does its use correlate with a healthy lifestyle.

Before starting to find out the truth, I propose to recall that earlier in the “sweet” series of articles it was discussed in detail about the benefits and harms of sugar itself.

stevia is a tropical plant with a wide range of uses, which is popularly called "honey grass". One gram of stevia leaves is equivalent to 30 g of sugar, i.e. Stevia leaf is 30 times sweeter than sugar.

The pleasant sweetish taste is explained by a complex molecule - stevioside, which is a natural source of glucose, sophorose and sucrose. It is this complex structure and a number of other related substances that are responsible for the amazing sweetness of the plant.

Distribution history

In the everyday life of different nationalities, this plant appeared relatively recently, despite the fact that, for example, the Guarani Indians have been using it for several centuries. They used stevia both as a sweetener and as a remedy for many ailments. The Spanish conquistadors drew attention to this by the 18th century.

On the territory of the former Soviet Union, the plant appeared only in 1934. It was brought from Latin America by the famous scientist and researcher N. I. Vavilov, who visited those parts with an expedition.

Prior to this, in 1931, an extract was isolated from the leaves of the plant, which was a crystalline substance, white in color. It turned out to be 300 times sweeter than sugar. The French chemists who made this discovery called it stevioside.

And in 1941, special attention was paid to stevia in the British Isles. It was caused by the blockade of England by German submarines. As a result of these events, there was a shortage of products, including from a number of sweeteners. Studies conducted by scientists have shown that this plant can serve as an excellent alternative to any sweetener.

A little later, the Japanese also looked at stevia, which today are considered the main consumer of “honey grass”, as it is also called. In 1954, they began to thoroughly study the properties of the plant, and by 1988, 41% of the Japanese sweetener market was occupied by stevia extract.

Since 1986, the plant began to be cultivated in Ukraine. Uzbekistan was the next to accept planting material and agricultural technology on the territory of the former Soviet Union. In 1991, the materials were transferred to Russia.

Now stevia is grown and used in many countries around the world. These are Korea and Thailand, Malaysia and Taiwan. In South America, you can find it in Paraguay, Brazil, Uruguay. The plant is also cultivated in Israel. But the largest supplier of honey grass extract on the world market is perhaps China.

Medicinal properties of the herb stevia.

o Stevia is called "honey grass" for its sugary-sweet taste.

o Stevia helps to cope with obesity, diseases of the stomach and organs of the gastrointestinal tract, diabetes.

o Stevia helps prevent the formation and growth of cancer.

o Stevia is able to slow down the aging of cells of a living organism, strengthen the immune system, this honey herb has antiseptic and antifungal properties, has a beneficial effect on the functioning of the cardiovascular system, nervous system, and digestive system.

o When eaten, Stevia is a low-calorie sugar substitute.

o Diseases of the liver, gallbladder when using stevia are cured much faster.

o Stevia herb is used as an active stimulant in the treatment of obesity, diabetes, atherosclerosis, patients with metabolic disorders.

o Many sugar substitutes should not be consumed for a long time - they can cause serious human diseases, and even cancer. Long-term scientific studies of the properties of stevia have established that this plant is suitable for eating for a long time, even for a lifetime, without any consequences for human health.

o Medicinal properties of stevia help to use it even for arthritis and osteochondrosis, cholecystitis, pancreatitis, nephritis, thyroid diseases.

o If you use stevia extract simultaneously with anti-inflammatory drugs - non-steroids, then the gastric mucosa does not suffer from the action of these drugs.

o When stevia is regularly consumed in the blood of a diabetic patient, the amount of glucose in the blood is significantly reduced, the elasticity of the walls of blood vessels improves, and the growth of cancerous tumors is prevented.

o Stevosides, found in the plant, treat diseases of the oral cavity - periodontal disease, gingivitis, strengthen the gums and protect teeth from the development of caries on them.

o Essential oil is made from stevia, and it contains more than 53 active substances. Stevia essential oil has an anti-inflammatory, healing effect.

o A wound that is washed with a solution of stevia will stop festering and heal very quickly without leaving scars. Stevia solution is also used to treat burns, trophic ulcers.

o The tannins in stevia turn the proteins of the mucous membranes and skin into insoluble, durable compounds, and bacteria can no longer exist on them. Therefore, the anti-inflammatory and disinfectant properties of stevia are so pronounced.

o When bitten by mosquitoes, mosquitoes, bees and other blood-sucking insects, stevia preparations will help to avoid intoxication and local tissue swelling.

o With burns, stevia reduces pain and promotes rapid skin regeneration without scarring.

o By adding stevia to the food of a small child, allergic diathesis can be cured.

o Stevia, nourishing the pancreas, restores the function of even a damaged organ.

o Herbal tea from stevia leaves normalizes the intestinal microflora after prolonged use of antibiotics, improves the enzymatic activity of the digestive system.

o Many women suffer from thrush and vaginal dysbiosis, especially if they have had to be treated with antibiotics. Malicious candida is right there. Stevia and chamomile will help you get rid of this scourge.

o In addition, the plant is widely known as a good tonic. Herbal tea, prepared on its basis, quickly and effectively restores strength after nervous and physical exhaustion.

Stevia Contraindications

Relatively recently, steviosides were blamed for allegedly causing mutations, that is, cancer. Even the results of some experiments were cited, which were subsequently subjected to sharp criticism.

In 2006, based on irrefutable data, the World Health Organization concluded that steviosides and rebaudiosides are non-carcinogenic and noted a positive effect in the treatment of hypertension and type 2 diabetes.

Now there are several contraindications for the use of natural stevia sweetener:

o Contraindications to the use of stevia are individual intolerance and predisposition to allergic reactions to the plant. The leaves of the plant have a hypotensive effect, so stevia is contraindicated for people with low blood pressure.

o Harmful stevia in large quantities for people with diabetes and disorders of fat metabolism.

o Stevia may be harmful (because of the content of essential oils, tannins, etc.) to people with carbohydrate metabolism disorders and severe respiratory diseases.

o Stevia is contraindicated in severe diseases of the digestive system, serious circulatory disorders, hormonal failures, mental disorders and in the postoperative period.

Stevia sweetener (stevioside)

Stevioside- the only natural natural vegetable sweetener. It contains virtually no calories, while many times sweeter than regular sugar.

On sale there is also a free-flowing white powder like sugar and fructose. Its only difference from other "sweet without sugar" is a more complex process of dissolution in water. So tea with the addition of stevioside will have to be pretty hindered.

Liquid stevioside is added to homemade cakes, jams, desserts, jellies, drinks.

Usually the manufacturer writes on the package the ratio of their product "to a spoonful of sugar" and, depending on this, you will have to determine how much stevioside to use in dishes.

With a high coefficient of sweetness of stevia, the calorie content of stevioside is negligible.

The use of stevia leaves

stevia leaves used in the form of extracts, decoctions or herbal teas. They combine well with other herbs, so very often the fees are a mixture of several useful plants.

Fresh stevia leaves can be used to sweeten any drink: tea, compote, herbal infusions.

If the dried leaves are ground in a mortar or coffee grinder, you get a green stevia powder, which is about 10 times sweeter than sugar. 2 tablespoons of dry leaf powder replaces 1 cup of regular sugar.

Stevia Recipes

o Stevia tea bags. A bag of crushed leaves (2 gr.) Brew one liter of boiling water, leave for 15-20 minutes. Tea has a specific, pleasant sweet taste and smell. The color of the infusion is light brown at first, but after a few hours it changes to dark green.

o Stevia tea. Pour a glass of boiling water over one tablespoon of a dry stevia leaf, cover with a lid and leave for half an hour. This tea treats obesity and both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, hypertension. If you lubricate age spots on the face with such tea, they will become noticeably lighter, and the skin will gain elasticity and firmness. The cooled tea can be rubbed into the scalp for hair growth and shine, against dandruff.

o Stevia decoction, option 1. Brew one teaspoon of the leaf with 200 ml of boiling water, leave for 10-15 minutes. Add the broth to all dishes where sugar is used, it can be stored in the refrigerator for two days.

o Stevia decoction, option 2. Tie two tablespoons of stevia leaves in a double-layer gauze napkin, pour a glass of boiling water and simmer for half an hour. Drain into a bottle. Pour a napkin with stevia again with half a glass of boiling water, let stand for 30 minutes, drain the infusion to the broth into a bottle. Leaves from a napkin can be put in tea, drinks instead of sugar, and the broth can be put in the refrigerator - it does not last long.

o Stevia infusion. 20 gr. Leaves pour a glass of boiling water in a thermos, soak for 12 hours, drain the resulting infusion into a sterilized jar, pour the leaves again with 0.5 cups of boiling water in a thermos. Leave for 8 hours, then strain. Combine both infusions.

o Stevia syrup. Stevia infusion (prepared according to the previous recipe) is evaporated over low heat to a syrup state, until a drop applied to a dry plate holds a rounded shape. Syrup is 100 times sweeter than sugar, drip 4-5 drops of syrup on a glass of tea. Especially delicious herbal tea with the addition of stevia syrup. The syrup can be stored at home for several years.

o Stevia extract. Take 20 grams of dry stevia leaf, pour a glass of alcohol and leave for a day in a warm place. Strain. Can be used to sweeten tea or confectionery.

o With injuries, burns, ulcers, boils. Apply fresh washed stevia leaves to damaged skin, wrinkling them a little with your hands. To wash damaged skin, you can use a decoction or infusion of stevia herbs.

o Infusion of stevia and chamomile, in the fight against thrush and vaginal dysbacteriosis. 1 st. spoon of chamomile and 1 teaspoon of stevia pour 1 cup of boiling water. Cool to 36°C, filter and use completely for one treatment. Douche should be in the morning for 10 days. At this time, you need to reduce the consumption of sugar and meat products to a minimum. It is very good to drink stevia tea at the same time.

o The same infusion, diluted 2 times, is good for enemas in the treatment of dysbacteriosis and intestinal inflammation.

application in cosmetology

o For cosmetic use of stevia, you can use stevia leaf powder, tincture, water extract or herbal tea.

o Stevia slows down the aging process in the body.

o Prevents the growth of bacteria that cause inflammation.

o Effectively fights dermatitis and eczema.

o Masks based on stevia relieve acne, make the skin soft, silky and supple.

o Stevia prevents the appearance of age wrinkles.

o Nourishes the skin at the cellular level.

o Improves hair condition, used to combat dandruff and seborrhea. Accelerates hair growth.

o Strengthens nails.

o It is an effective assistant in the fight for the health of teeth and gums.

o Protects teeth from caries and gums from periodontal disease.

o Tincture of stevia leaves quickly and painlessly heals postoperative scars. Treats burns, cuts, abrasions, animal and insect bites.

Where to buy stevia?

Nowadays stevia can be found in every city. In large supermarkets and hypermarkets, stevia sweetener is in the section for people with diabetes, in the section with sugar, tea with stevia in the herbal tea section. Also in the pharmacy.

o Introducing stevia and its extracts into your diet, carefully monitor the body's reaction to these products. Individual intolerance may occur, expressed in a disorder of the digestive tract, an allergic reaction.

o Drinking stevia with fresh milk can also cause diarrhea.

o It is not worth it to abuse stevia, using it in most dishes, especially for people suffering from obesity, as well as diabetes. In such cases, it is better to combine this plant with protein products.

o It is useful to mix stevia with the usual black or green tea. It is better to make tea leaves in a proportion of one to one. Such teas will help to resist many diseases and will not bring harm if they are drunk once or twice a day. The grassy flavor of stevia, if it bothers you, can be quenched with lemon or mint.

Stevia can be grown as an indoor flower

In addition, a unique feature of the stevia herb is that you can grow it yourself at home. But since this grass is southern, it will require a number of necessary conditions: compliance with air humidity, compliance with the temperature regime. There are video tutorials on how to grow stevia online. But you can grow it yourself through trial and error, or you can buy finished products, it's up to you.

The above data on the properties of stevia confirm the repeated predominance of positive qualities over negative ones. What is stevia, if not just a sweetener, but also a valuable dietary supplement that regulates metabolism.

Introducing a medicinal plant into your diet, even the most useful and, at first glance, harmless, the advice of a specialist will not interfere.

And one more thing... No matter how valuable the stevia food product is, everything needs a measure.

Be healthy!