Stevia
| Title | Info |
|---|---|
| Common name | Candyleaf, sweet leaf of Paraguay, honeyleaf, or Stevia |
| Scientific name | Stevia rebaudiana |
| Taxonomic group | Asteraceae |
| Source | Dan L. Perlman |
| Economic botany | Food plants; Industrial products |
| Food plants | Other |
| Keywords | Compositae |
Stevia. The leaves of this plant are incredibly sweet--much sweeter than sugar. Stevioside, a chemical that makes up 6-18% of the leaf, is thought by some to be 100 times sweeter than a 10% solution of sucrose. This chemical also appears to have utility in bringing down high blood pressure. Stevia appears to have antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. Extracts of the plant have been sold as food additives in Brazil and Japan. Originally from Paraguay.
