The stevia, scientific name Stevia rebaudiana , is a plant belonging to the family of Asteraceae , being also known as stevia-de-brasilia, stevia-do-canada and Caá-eé.

It became quite popular when a sweetener from its leaves started to be used, in the form of a powdered extract, in South American countries. Herb tea.

Characteristics of Brasilia stevia

The Brasilia stevia is a very branched plant, which can reach from 40 cm to 1.20 meters in height. It has hairy and serrated leaves, which can be cut after 3 to 5 months after planting. The inflorescence forms small flower heads, each of which has five white flowers.

There are about 150 species of this plant, however, only stevia rebaudiana has the sweetening power. From the 70s, the plant became a substitute for artificial sweeteners.

Properties and benefits

The properties of stevia include its sweetening, hypoglycemic, diuretic, antidiabetic, cardiotonic, hypotensive, vascular system tonic and antiphlogistic action. Stevioside is one of its active ingredients and is non-caloric, has anti-cariogenic properties and supports high and low temperatures without losing its sweetness properties. Thanks to its flavoring power, the substance enhances the flavor of foods, as well as having antioxidant properties.

Stevioside is a diterpene of the kauran class, having three glucose molecules attached to it. It has the property of sweetening about 300 times more than regular sugar. In Brazil, it has been used as a sweetener since 1987.

Thanks to its medicinal properties, stevia rebaudiana is indicated in cases of diabetes, high blood pressure, heartburn, rheumatism, fatigue, depression, insomnia, weight loss, toothache and to lower uric acid.

Stevia tea: how to prepare?

To prepare the infusion of the plant, just use the measure of 4 cups (of coffee) of dried leaves in 1 liter of water. Drink 6 to 8 cups of this tea a day.

As a sweetener, it is recommended to use 1 tablespoon of green stevia leaves per cup of drink.

For diabetics, the indication is 1 teaspoon (of tea) of dried leaves in 1 cup (of tea) of hot water. Let it simmer for 15 minutes and drink 2 cups a day.

Contraindications

Stevia can cause your heart rate to accelerate. Remember that, before using any plant for therapeutic purposes, it is necessary to consult a specialist.