What is Stevia?
Stevia, or Stevia Rebaudiana Bertoni, also known as sweet herb or honey leaf, is a small perennial shrub that belongs to the chrysanthemum family of plants. Stevia is the only known species at present which possesses an inordinate ability to sweeten. Stevia in its natural herbal form is approximately 10 to 15 times sweeter than cane sugar. Stevia in its refined form called steviol glycosides or stevia extract powder is rated at 200 to 480 times sweeter than cane sugar. Stevia may well be the most remarkable sweetener in the world. The following are some of its characteristics: • It is suitable for diabetics • calorie free • does not adversely affect blood sugar • non toxic • inhibits the formation of cavities and plaque • contains no artificial ingredients • can be used for cooking and baking Stevia has also been known to possess herbal properties and was used by South American Indians for medicinal purposes for hundreds of years. Today, stevia is grown commercially and used in many co