What is Stevia?
Stevia is a small shrub like perennial plant which belongs to the sunflower (Asteraceae) family. It is also known as Eupatorium rebaudianum, sweetleaf, honeyleaf and sugarleaf, and sweet herb of Paraguay. The leaves of Stevia are a source of natural zero-calorie sweetener which is considered sweeter than sugar (sucrose). It has been used in South and Central America , Japan and many other parts of the world as a sugar substitute and in the treatment of a number of health conditions for centuries. Initially the leaves of Stevia were consumed fresh or dried but eventually chemists isolated the glycosides called stevioside and rebaudioside from its leaves that give stevia its sweet taste. Stevia also contains phytonutrients, trace elements, minerals, vitamins and volatile oils which give Stevia its nutritional and medicinal properties. In 2008, FDA (The Food and Drug Administration) approved sweetener derived from the herb stevia as safe for use in foods and beverages. The steviols glycosides are now used in herbal supplements, foods and beverages, and as sweetening powders and syrups. Unlike other sweeteners, Stevia can be used in baking and cooking and its lesser amount is ample.
Stevia Health Benefits
A number of studies show that Stevia can be beneficial in the treatment of many health conditions. Stevia is believed to have anti-bacterial, anti-septic, anti-microbial, anti-oxidant, anti-glycemic, and anti-hypertensive properties which may help high blood pressure, diabetes, chronic fatigue, indigestion, upset stomach, heartburn, weight loss, cold and flu, gingivitis, tooth decay, cavities, dandruff and hair loss, brittle bones or osteoporosis, streptococcus, candidiasis, bacterial infections and skin conditions such as cuts, wounds, rashes, itchiness, blemishes, acne, seborrhoeic dermatitis, dermatitis, eczema, and wrinkles. It may also improve energy levels, strengthen immune system, stimulate mental activity, and may also help in withdrawl from tobacco and alcohol addiction.
Uses of Stevia
1.Diabetes
Studies and researches show that Stevia may stabilize blood sugar levels and increase insulin resistance. It may even promote insulin production by promoting the pancreas health, discourage glucose absorption in the blood, and inhibit candidiasis – a yeast infection that flourishes with sugar. The steviol glycosides are not metabolized by the body and are excreted in the urine without getting accumulated in the body. A study also suggests that stevia may inhibit the craving for sweet or oily and fatty foods.2. Gingivitis
Studies shows that antibacterial properties of Stevia may help with gingivitis, cavities, tooth decay and mouth sores. It may suppress the development and reproduction of infectious organisms in the gums and teeth and inhibit the growth of plaque, thus improving overall oral health.3. Heartburn and Indigestion
People in Brazil, Paraguay and Bolivia have been using stevia tea to soothe upset stomach, heartburn and to improve digestion and gastrointestinal function. Drinking stevia tea after every meal may serve as a digestive aid and may relieve heartburn and stomach pain.4. High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
A few longer term studies done over a period of 1 and 2 years show that stevia may lower elevated blood pressure levels. Simply drinking stevia tea twice daily may help stabilize blood pressure levels.5. Osteoporosis
A study performed on chickens showed that by adding stevia leaf powder to chicken feed significantly increased calcium metabolism in the chickens and had 75% decreased eggshell breakage. A patent application for possible Osteoporosis treatment with stevia suggests that stevia may help promote absorption of calcium in the body and help improve bone density.6. Weight Loss
Medical research proves that substituting sugar with stevia is beneficial in weight management. The anti-glycemic activity of stevia and Stevianel sweetener may also control blood glucose levels which is one of the major causes of weight gain and diabetes. It helps preventing sugar derived hyperactivity in children known as ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), as well as other sugar-related anxiety disorders in both children and adults. Stevia also works as a tonic to increase energy levels in people battling for weight loss.7. Wrinkles and Other Skin Conditions
Stevia is believed to be a remarkable healing agent for skin disorders. Its antioxidant, antibacterial and antiseptic activity may help with wrinkles, skin blemishes, dermatitis, eczema, acne outbreaks, scarring, rashes, itchiness and chapped lips. A small amount of the stevia plant concentrate applied directly onto the affected skin may promote the healing process. To smooth out the wrinkles, apply a facial mask with a blend of stevia and almond oil for 20 minutes, then rinse.8. Dandruff and Hair Health
Stevia concentrate is believed to be beneficial for dandruff, dry scalp, and dull, thin hair. People have noticed stronger, dandruff-free and rejuvenated hair after the regular use of stevia leaf juice added to their shampoo.What are the Side Effects of Stevia?
There are not any reported side effects of Stevia when taken in moderation. Based on intensive global researches and scientific reports, The World Health Organisation (WHO) of the UN and Food and Drug Administration of the US had approved the use of Steviol glycosides as safe and has established an acceptable daily intake of 4mg per kg of body weight. However, if you are taking any medication for diabetes or hypertension, due to its anti-glycemic and anti-hypertensive activity supervised Stevia consumption is advised. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your physician before using Stevia therapeutically.Where and How to Buy Stevia
Stevia is available online at our website http://truu.in/ in the form of stevia leaves powder click here.
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· Pure Ayurveda herb sourced naturally and processed manually
· Free of pesticides and insecticides
· No artificial flavors, colors or preservatives. It’s truly natural
· Handled with love to gift you the mother earth’s love
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