Botanical Overview
Stevia rebaudiana, belonging to the Asteraceae family, is native to South America, particularly Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina. The plant is primarily used for its leaves, known commonly as Stevia, Sweetleaf, or Sugarleaf. It is widely recognized for its natural sweetening properties with medicinal benefits.
Energetics
Stevia rebaudiana is considered cooling in temperature and moistening in moisture quality. It tastes predominantly sweet and bitter, with a descending energy direction. Its tonic effect is tonifying, and it primarily supports qi energy in the body.
Primary Actions
- Anti-hyperglycemic
- Hypotensive
- Sweetener
Indications
Western
- Hyperglycemia
- High blood pressure
- Excessive thirst
- Fatigue
Syndromes
- Type 2 diabetes mellitus
- Hypertension
- Metabolic syndrome
TCM
No well-documented traditional indications.
Ayurveda
No well-documented traditional indications.
Unani
No well-documented traditional indications.
Constituents & Mechanisms
Stevia’s key phytochemicals include steviosides, rebaudiosides, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds which contribute to its sweetening and medicinal properties.
Dosage & Preparations
- Leaf infusion 1–2 g 2–3×/day
- Extract standardized 200–300 mg stevioside 1–3×/day
- Powdered leaf 0.5–1 g as sweetener
Safety & Contraindications
Stevia is generally regarded as safe when used as a sweetener. High doses may cause gastrointestinal discomfort. Caution is advised during pregnancy and lactation due to limited data. Potential interactions with antihypertensive and antidiabetic medications warrant monitoring.
Astrological Correspondences
There are no well-established planetary or elemental rulers for Stevia rebaudiana documented in credible esoteric or herbal traditions.
Selected References
- Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni – Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects, 2nd Edition
- Stevia rebaudiana – Plants For A Future
- Stevia rebaudiana (Bertoni) – WHO Monograph
- Pharmacological Effects of Stevia rebaudiana – Journal of Ethnopharmacology