Stevia (Stevia rebaudiana), dried leaves, 40g

Stevia ( stevia rebaudiana ) originates from Latin America where traditional herbal medicine considers it to be hypoglycemic, hypotensive, diuretic and cardiotonic. Its low carbohydrate content makes it a substitute food ingredient for sucrose. In addition, its negligible effect on blood glucose levels makes it a sweetener compatible with diabetic diets and hypoglycemic diets. Stevia has a slight licorice aftertaste that goes well with herbal teas and in baking.

Known properties:

Sweetening power
Depending on the varieties and harvests, the sweetening power of stevia is 100 to 300 times greater than sucrose.

Hypoglycemic
Stevia, despite its strong sweetening potential, has very little effect on blood glucose levels.

Hypotensive
The stevioside contained in stevia leaves has a vasodilator effect which lowers blood pressure.

Examples of uses:

Tisane
1/2 leaf to 1 leaf per cup as part of a herbal tea or herbal tea preparation.

Pastry / cooking
It is possible to grind the dry leaf to reduce it to a fine powder. Stevia is therefore easier to incorporate into culinary preparations, as a substitute for sugar.

Precautions:

Keep out of reach of children. The consumption of stevia is not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women. The hypoglycemic and hypotensive properties of stevia must be taken into account in case of drug treatment against diabetes and hypertension.

📸 📃 Text credit: Bourbon herbal teas