Featured Herb of the Month: Stevia
Stevia rebaudiana bertoni is a member of the Compositae family. The Stevia plant is native of eastern Paraguay (the Amambay Mountain Range) and the adjacent Parana Estate of Brazil. It was first discovered by the Guarani Indians of Paraguay long before Columbus arrived in the New World. It has been consumed since ancient times to sweeten Yerba Mate tea (Ilex paraguayensis).

     The amount of Stevioside in the Stevia leaf varies with climate, soil conditions, and time of harvest and can range from 200 to 300 times sweeter than sugar.

What are people saying about it?

Dr. Julian Whitaker
Dr. Whitaker's Newsletter
December 1994
"Stevia is not only non-toxic, but has several traditional medicinal uses. The Indian tribes of South America have used it as a digestive aid and have also applied it topically for years to help wound healing. Recent clinical studies have shown it can increase glucose tolerance and decrease blood sugar levels. Of the two sweeteners (aspartame and Stevia), Stevia wins hands down for safety."

Leigh Broadhurst, Ph.D.
Chemist and Nutritional Consultant
G. Gordon Liddy Letter
"All the benefits of saccharin and none of the drawbacks. When used correctly, Stevia does not have a taste... it's just sweet. Unlike saccharine, Stevia does not become bitter. Much more concentrated than aspartame."

Robert C. Atkins, M.D.
Dr. Atkin's Health Revelations Newsletter
April 1994
"Stevia has virtually no calories. The extract dissolves easily in water and mixes well with all other sweeteners. I use it myself in a delicious homemade ice cream that is extremely low in carbohydrates."

Medicinal Indications of Stevia
People have consumed Stevia for centuries with no known side effects. Individuals who can not tolerate sugar or other sweeteners can use Stevia. Studies suggest that Stevia has a regulating effect on the pancreas and could help stabilize blood sugar levels in the body, therefore making it wise for people with diabetes, hypoglycemia, and Candidiasis. Traditionally it is indicated as a cardiotonic, anti-gas, for obesity, to reduce acidity (heart burn), hypertension, and to lower uric acid levels. Research also suggest that Stevia may help fight bacteria. It is considered an effective medicine to help in the maintenance of a "perfect health balance". In regard to its sweetening power, it is estimated that 30 ml (1 oz) of Stevia extract is equivalent to 3 Kg (6.6 lbs) of sucrose.

Approximate Composition Pederson 1987 Nutritional Herbology 377pp

Aluminum 0.0072 Manganese 0.0147
Ash 6.3 Phosphorus 0.318
Beta-carotene 0.0075 Potassium 1.78
Calcium 0.544 Protein 11.2
Chromium 0.0039 Selenium 0.0025
Cobalt 0.0025 Silicon 0.0132
Fat 1.9 Sodium 0.0892
Fiber 15.2 Tin 0.0015
Iron 0.0039 Vitamin C 0.011
Magnesium 0.349 Water 82.3


Stevioside Chemical Composition
Stevioside is a white, crystalline powder extracted from the leaves of the Stevia plant. Its chemical identification and quantitative compositions are listed for those with a more scientific interest in the product.

  • 100% NATURAL
  • NO CALORIES
  • 200 to 300 times sweeter than sugar
  • Heat Stable to 198 degrees Celsius
  • Non-fermentable
  • Flavor enhancer
  • Anti-plaque
  • Anti-caries
  • Stevioside content: >90%
  • Optical Rotation: -37 o
  • Absorbence: .046
  • Ash: <0.2%

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Last updated: Tuesday, September 07, 1999