Those who have watched one of the famous shows ever made “Breaking bad” know about Stevia. But it’s not only famous due to this show. It has numerous benefits and diverse uses that make it attractive and the topic of recent studies. To know why it is important to talk about the Stevia plant (Candy leaf), you have to read the article!
A little Introduction:
Stevia is a perennial, herbaceous plant with sweet leaves. It is commonly known as sugar leaf or Candy leaf due to its sweetness.
It was originated in South America and then spread throughout the world. There are over 300000 plant species in the world but botany, agriculture or biotechnology students study this plant at least once due to its huge potential that can improve your health and can transform industries.
- Since the 16th century, it has been used to sweeten drinks and making tea.
There are approximately 230 species of this plant. It can be Bushy shrub or subshrub depending upon the species. It is grown in many countries like China, Japan, Malaysia, Russia, South Korea, and India. China is growing it on a large scale and is also the leading exporter. But why China is focusing so much on this plant? The answer lies in its health benefits and industrial uses.
Health Benefits of Stevia Plant:
This Plant (Candy leaf) is full of good things. Everything in it is full of benefits (with some exceptions that you will see in the side effects section).
1) Gum Protection:
It keeps Gums strong as it is a disinfectant that acts as Protector against germs and diseases. It contains stevioside which reduces dental problems
2) Its sweetness does not cause any damage:
It does not contribute calories to any beverage or dessert. Moreover, it does not disturb the Insulin response as well. This has allowed diabetic patients to have a better menu to eat. Industries extract steviol glycosides, stevioside, and rebaudioside from the leaves which are estimated to be 300 times sweeter than sugar. But that’s not it! Its intake has no effect on blood sugar levels. So, it is helpful for hypoglycemia and type-2 diabetes. But keep one thing in mind- As Stevia is sweeter than sugar, you don’t need it in large quantity.
3) No Weight Gain:
If you are looking to lose some weight, go for stevia. As it has no calorie contribution, so it does not cause weight gain.
Also Read: Link between eating high fat foods and heart failure.
4) Skin Protection:
It is very effective against Skin diseases and Problems like dermatitis, eczema, wrinkles, skin blemishes, acne outbreaks, scarring, rashes, and itchiness.
5) Protection of Bones:
It contains a high amount of calcium. Thus, consuming it will help in strengthening bones.
6) Fights Cancer:
It also contains kaempferol which is an anti-oxidant. Kaempferol has shown promising results against pancreatic cancer.
Side Effects of Stevia Plant:
If Stevia is properly washed before using or you are not allergic to it, it has no side effects. However, if you consume in large quantities, it will have some side effects, such as:
1) Nausea
2) Numbness
3) Digestive issues
4) Muscle Pain
5) Low Blood Pressure
6) Weight gain (If consumed in large quantities)
7) Bloating
8) If you are pregnant, it is better to avoid the unrefined plant.
Industrial Uses of Stevia Plant:
- It is 250–300 times sweeter than sucrose or table sugar. That is why it is used in beverage making.
2) It is very effective against skin problems; thus, it is used in skin products.
3) It acts as a solubilizing agent in animal feed.
4) It is also used in different industries to make different products such as Chewing gum, Ice cream, Soft drinks, Fruit juice, yogurt, etc.
Where can I get Stevia (Candy leaf)?
It is available in almost any nursery. Now, there are online stores like Amazon that deal with its buying and selling. You can also purchase its seed and grow it in your little garden in your home.
Conclusion:
The stevia plant (Candy leaf) is sweet, and non-nutritive in nature. It is gaining worldwide importance. Its benefits are in great numbers. Therefore, scientists are conducting studies on it to harness its good qualities. It can prove to be a substitute for sugar. Its potential in industrial usage has the ability to transform food industries. However, not everything about this plant is a win-win. You can face some side effects. More research is required to reach a definite conclusion about its use in the future.
Also Read: 7 Incredible Foods for Stress Relief you must Consume.