Stevia Rebaudiana: Everything You Need To Know

Stevia Rebaudiana has become extremely popular as a natural sweetener alternative to sugar. The plant, originally from South America, is renowned for its very sweet leaves used as the foundation for many stevia sweeteners. If you are health-oriented or simply want to cut down on sugar, natural stevia could be the answer. In this in-depth guide, we will cover everything about Stevia Rebaudiana, from where it comes from to its health benefits and real-time applications.

What is Stevia Rebaudiana?

Stevia Rebaudiana is a member of the herb family Asteraceae, which is also the same family as sunflower and daisy. It is cultivated mainly for the leaves that have a sweet flavor, and these leaves are packed with compounds called steviol glycosides. These are the compounds that give it its remarkable sweetness, estimated at 200 to 300 times sweeter than normal sugar.
In contrast to artificial sweeteners, natural stevia comes directly from plant sources, and as such, it is a better choice for those in search of a natural sugar substitute.

A Brief History of Stevia Rebaudiana

Stevia has been utilized for centuries by the Guaraní people of Paraguay and Brazil, who called it “kaa he-he,” or “sweet herb.” The indigenous people used it to sweeten drinks and as a medicine for many conditions.
During the 20th century, stevia sugar gained popularity worldwide. Japan, among other nations, adopted stevia as a safe alternative to sugar during the 1970s, and this resulted in its large-scale commercial production. It is now grown on a large scale in Asia, South America, and even Europe.

How is Stevia Rebaudiana Processed?

Stevia sweeteners are manufactured in a multi-step process:

• Harvesting: Stevia Rebaudiana leaves are harvested when they are at the peak of sweetness.
• Drying: Stevia leaves are dried carefully to retain their natural sweetness.
• Extraction: Water or alcohol extraction processes isolate the steviol glycosides from the plant.
• Purification: The extract is purified further to eliminate bitterness while retaining the natural sweetness.
• Spray Drying: The purified liquid extract is converted into a fine, dry powder using spray drying technology. This ensures the stability and concentration of stevia in its final powdered form.
• Final Processing: Stevia is processed into powders, liquids, or granules depending on
  the type and intended use. The purity of the stevia extract is what gives it its sweetness and flavor. The greater the concentration of steviol glycosides, the sweeter and purer the final product.

Nutritional Benefits of Stevia Rebaudiana

Unlike other sugar, stevia contains no calories and no carbohydrates, so it is a great option for those on a weight-reducing diet or individuals who have to control their blood sugar. Some of the important health advantages are:

• Helps Control Blood Sugar: Stevia doesn’t raise blood glucose levels, so it is safe for diabetic patients. Research indicates that using stevia sugar can even increase insulin sensitivity.
• Maintains Weight: Because it has no calories, natural stevia can be an excellent sugar substitute for people who are attempting to lose weight.
• Dental Health Friendly: Stevia is not like refined sugar in that it will not cause tooth decay or cavities, and thus it is an excellent choice for oral health.
• High in Antioxidants: Antioxidant compounds are found in stevia leaves, and they may reduce oxidative stress and promote overall health.

Different Forms of Stevia Sweetener

Stevia is available in multiple forms, making it a versatile sugar alternative for various
applications:

1. DRIED STEVIA LEAVES

• Used in herbal teas and infusions.
• Can be ground into powder for homemade sweeteners.

2. STEVIA POWDER

• A concentrated form ideal for baking and beverages.
• Often blended with erythritol or other bulking agents.

3. STEVIA LIQUID EXTRACT

• A convenient, highly concentrated solution perfect for sweetening drinks

4. STEVIA TABLETS

• Portable and easy to use, making them a great sugar substitute for coffee or tea.
  Each type offers unique benefits depending on the intended use

Final Thoughts

Stevia Rebaudiana is a remarkable plant that provides a naturally sweet alternative to sugar. Whether you’re managing diabetes, losing weight, or simply seeking a healthier lifestyle, stevia sweetener is a great option. With its zero calories, low glycemic impact, and natural origins, it’s no surprise that more people are making the switch to natural stevia.

FAQs About Stevia Rebaudiana

Q: Is stevia safe for children?
A: Yes, stevia is safe for kids when consumed in moderation. However, it’s best to avoid highly
processed versions.

Q: Can I use stevia while on a keto diet?
A: Absolutely! Stevia contains zero carbohydrates, making it a great keto-friendly sweetener.

Q: Does stevia taste like sugar?
A: Stevia has a slightly different taste from sugar, often described as sweet with a mild herbal
aftertaste.

Q: Can I grow Stevia Rebaudiana at home?
A: Yes! Stevia is easy to cultivate in warm climates and can thrive in pots or gardens.

Q: Does stevia cause weight gain?
A: No, since it has zero calories, it does not contribute to weight gain.

Q: Is stevia better than artificial sweeteners?
A: Yes, because it is naturally derived, whereas artificial sweeteners undergo chemical
processing