Stevia

At a Glance

Common name

Stevia

Scientific name

Stevia rebaudiana

Family

Asteraceae

Region

South America

Plant part

Leaves

Caffeine

Caffeine Free

Evidence

Limited

Safety review

Safety information on file

Botanical Description

A tender perennial with small opposite lanceolate green serrated leaves and loose clusters of tiny white tubular flowers; the leaves are used.

Also known as: Sweet Leaf, Sugar Leaf, Caa-Ehe

Historical Background

Stevia has been a Guarani (South American) sweet leaf for centuries, used to sweeten mate and other drinks long before modern stevia sweeteners. Its leaves brew a clean, naturally sweet, caffeine-free cup and double as a zero-calorie sweetener for other herbal teas.

Earliest recorded uses: Guarani traditions for centuries; a sweet leaf used to sweeten teas and drinks.

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Sweet, clean, slightly green, licorice-like

Tea Preparation

Modern Evidence

Stevia has a tradition as a sweet, blood-sugar-friendly leaf and tea; steviol glycosides are approved sweeteners with modest glucose-modulating data. Clinical evidence for tea is limited; it is not a treatment for diabetes, hypertension, obesity, or any disease, though it remains a gentle, naturally sweet, caffeine-free cup.

Evidence levels describe the state of research for the traditional use discussed here, not a recommendation. Historical use does not imply effectiveness.