Stevia - what is it, beneficial properties. Use of stevia. Artificial sugar substitutes. Tea with stevia

Once, in a circle of friends, I first heard that there is a herb, the tea from which, when brewed, becomes sweet without adding sugar to it. And it wasn’t that I was surprised, I didn’t even believe it right away. “I’m being played in any way,” I thought then and immediately asked Google a question (this is what I always do when I doubt something or don’t know something). To my pleasant surprise, this turned out to be true. This is how I learned that there is a sweet herb called stevia. This article will tell you about the benefits and harms of stevia, as well as its medicinal properties.

I try to eat healthy and therefore minimize the amount of sugar my body consumes. Stevia in this regard has become a kind of lifesaver for me, because I like to drink more sweet tea, rather than not sweet.

Stevia is a sweet herb that grows in a small bush with a height of 60 cm to 1 m. The sweetness of stevia is in its leaves. The natural habitat of this plant is South America (Paraguay, Brazil).

When the world learned about the benefits of stevia, it began to be grown in industrial quantities on other continents. So this grass spread all over the world.

The benefits of stevia

For one adult, the norm for sugar consumption per day is 50 g. And this takes into account everything “ sugar world»: sweets, chocolate, cookies and other sweets.

If you believe the statistics, then in fact, Europeans eat, on average, about 100 g of sugar per day every day, Americans - about 160 g. Do you know what this means? The risk of developing diseases in these people is very high.

Poor blood vessels and the pancreas suffer the most. Then it comes out sideways in the form of strokes, heart attacks, diabetes and hypertension. In addition, there is a risk of being left without teeth, starting to gain weight and aging prematurely.

Why do people love sweets so much? There are two reasons for this:

1. When a person eats sweets, his body begins to rapidly produce joy hormones called endorphins.
2. The more and the longer person tramples sweets, the more he gets used to it. Sugar is a drug that is incorporated into the body and requires a repeated dose of sugar.

To protect yourself from the harm of sugar, the healthiest and healthiest of which is stevia, a sweet honey herb that is 15 times sweeter than regular sugar.

But at the same time, stevia has almost zero calorie content. If you don’t believe me, here’s the proof: 100 g of sugar = 388 kcal; 100 g of dry stevia herb = 17.5 kcal (generally nothing compared to sucrose).

Useful substances in the composition of the herb stevia

1. Vitamins A, C, D, E, K, P.

2. Essential oil.

3. Minerals: chromium, iodine, selenium, sodium, phosphorus, calcium, potassium, zinc, iron, magnesium.

4. Amino acids.

5. Pectins.

6. Rebaudiazid.

7. Stevioside.

Stevioside is a powder that is extracted from stevia. It is 101% natural product and has the following beneficial properties:

• valiantly fights fungi and microbes whose food is sugar;
• calorie content - almost zero;
• mega-sweet (300 times sweeter than regular sugar);
• not sensitive to high temperatures and therefore suitable for use in cooking;
• absolutely harmless;
• dissolves well in water;
• Suitable for diabetics, as it is not carbohydrate in nature and does not cause the release of insulin, normalizing the level of glucose in the blood.

Stevioside contains substances that help in expectoration of sputum. They are called saponins ( lat. sapo - soap). With their presence in the body, the secretion of the stomach and all glands increases, the condition of the skin improves, and swelling disappears more quickly. In addition, they greatly help with inflammatory processes and improve metabolism.

Unlike other sweeteners, stevia can be consumed for many years because it is not harmful and does not cause side effects. Proof of this is numerous worldwide studies.

Stevia is used to restore performance thyroid gland, as well as in the treatment of diseases such as osteochondrosis, nephritis, pancreatitis, cholecystitis, arthritis, gingivitis, periodontal disease.

Doctors recommend combining anti-inflammatory medications with stevia because it helps protect against inflammation. harmful effects gastric mucosa.

Harm and contraindications of stevia

I repeat that stevia, unlike sugar and other sugar substitutes, cannot cause any harm. This is what many research scientists say.

Only individual intolerance to this herb is possible. Pregnant women and nursing mothers, as well as small children, should take stevia with caution.

We all love to eat sweets. Some people even sometimes feel like they can’t live without sweets. But don't neglect your common sense. Take care of yourself and your health, friends.

Where can I get real stevia sweetener?

I order stevia sweetener Here. This natural sweetener is an excellent substitute for sugar in drinks. And it lasts for a long time. Nature takes care of us

To be honest, there is no limit to my delight in this honey herb. She truly is a miracle of nature. As a child, I could eat all the candy Santa Claus brought me in one sitting. I love sweets, but now I try to stay away from them, because refined sugar (sucrose) is evil.

This may be a loud statement, but for me it is true. Therefore, the sweet herb stevia became for me simply a Find with a capital “N”.

Denis Statsenko was with you. Healthy lifestyle to everyone! See you

The article will tell you how to use stevia correctly and what properties it has.

Stevia is a plant from which it is obtained natural substitute sugar called stevioside. The sweet substance obtained from stevia not only helps those trying to avoid eating sugar lose weight, but also improves the quality of food and drinks for those struggling with diabetes. In addition, stevia has a large supply useful microelements. Stevia is a herb that can reach a meter in height and is a perennial plant.

INTERESTING: A scientifically proven fact confirms that the ancient Indians added stevia to their drink recipes, but the modern world learned about this plant only in the last century.

Rich and useful composition stevia:

• Vitamin E - helps maintain the youth of the body and the beauty of the skin, nails, and hair.
• Vitamin B group – regulated hormonal background humans and are responsible for the normal functioning of the body.
• Vitamin D – responsible for bone health
• Vitamin C – improves the body's immune function
• Vitamin P – “helper” in strengthening blood vessels
• Stock essential oils– provide internal and external positive impact on the body and body.
• Stock tannins– not only strengthens blood vessels, but also improves the functioning of the digestive tract.
• Iron – prevents anemia
• Amino acids – prolong the youth of the body, improve the health of the body.
• Copper – helps synthesize hemoglobin in the blood
• Selenium – helps in the production of enzymes and hormones
• Magnesium – normalizes blood pressure and cleans blood vessels
• Phosphorus – helps form the skeletal system
• Potassium – “takes care” of soft tissues body (muscle)
• Calcium – essential for bone and muscle tissue person
• Zinc – improves skin cell regeneration
• Silicon – strengthens bones
• Chromium – regulates blood sugar levels
• Cobalt – helps in the production of thyroid hormones

IMPORTANT: With such a rich composition of beneficial microelements, stevia has a low calorie content of 18 kcal per 100 g.

Benefits of Stevia:

• When ingested, stevia does not fill a person with “empty” carbohydrates (compared to sugar).
• Stevia has a pleasant, sweet taste, which can be used to complement hot drinks and desserts.
• Stevia is a plant that is useful for its microelements for people suffering from diabetes and high blood pressure.
• Stevia gently removes cholesterol from the body that may have accumulated over the years.
• Stevia “cleanses” the body of accumulated toxins and harmful substances.
• The plant improves blood flow and removes toxins
• Eliminates high blood pressure
• Stevia can reduce inflammation
• Improves the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract and liver
• Can lower blood sugar levels
• Stevia - powerful antimicrobial agent, which has an effect not only on oral cavity, but also on the digestive tract.
• Strengthens the immune system, replenishes the body with strength and energy
• IN winter time serves as an excellent prevention of colds.
• Improves the body's metabolism, while simultaneously slowing down its aging.
• “Removes” “excess” water from the body, having a powerful diuretic effect.

IMPORTANT: Numerous studies confirm that stevia is harmless to the body and only in some cases (if there is an intolerance to the ingredient), it is possible to get some “negative” consequences.

Possible harm of stevia:

• It is important to know that stevia should not be consumed in large portions at once. It should be introduced into the diet gradually so as not to harm yourself.
• If you drink stevia and milk at the same time, you can get diarrhea.
• With individual predisposition, stevia can cause allergies.
• If you do not control the use of stevia (if you have diabetes), you can cause yourself great harm.
• Stevia should not be used by those with low blood pressure.
• To prevent it from getting worse, do not consume excessive amounts of stevia if you have a disorder. digestive system, disrupted hormonal levels or blood diseases.

IMPORTANT: Before using stevia, you should consult your doctor about the possibility of it frequent use in food.

Stevia herb and leaves: use for type 2 diabetes

Stevia is often called " honey grass" behind pleasant aroma and sweetness. The leaves of the plant are sweet. Interestingly, stevia extract is much sweeter than regular sugar. It does not interfere with weight loss, as it does not slow down metabolism.

If a person has type 2 diabetes, it is allowed to use stevia in several forms:

• Tablets – plant leaf extract
• The syrup is an extract from stevia; the syrup can have different flavors.
• Tea – dry leaves of the plant, large or crushed
• Extract – plant extract

Stevia herb and leaves: use for weight loss, calorie content

Stevia is a plant that can help a person in the fight against weight loss. Its pleasant sweetish taste and beneficial features will only provide favorable properties on the body.

What is good about stevia for weight loss:

• The herb can eliminate increased appetite
• Provides sweetness without adding calories
• Nourishes the body with essential nutrients healthy weight loss vitamins and amino acids.
• Eliminates any inflammatory processes without forcing a person to resort to “harmful” chemical medications.
• Improves intestinal function and “cleanses” it of accumulated toxins.

IMPORTANT: If you cannot drink tea or coffee without sugar, you can replace it with stevia tablets, which you can buy at the pharmacy. It is much healthier to drink tea brewed from fresh or dry leaves.

The syrup is less recommended for consumption, because it is intended for medicinal purposes and contains a portion of sugar. Tea with stevia has sweetness and this allows a person to “delight himself” with something sweet. At the same time, regular sugar does not enter the body and it begins to look for other ways to obtain carbohydrates hidden in the fat “reserves” of the body.

In order to achieve greater weight loss effects when consuming stevia, you should completely regulate your diet, eliminating fats and carbohydrates. In addition, you should definitely drink a lot of water per day and preferably exercise. You should not use stevia from the very first day. large quantities, start with one cup of tea or one or two tablets.

IMPORTANT: If after consuming stevia you experience itching, intestinal irritation, fever and rashes, you most likely have an intolerance to stevia. Eliminate stevia from your diet, or reduce the amount you use.

Stevia tablets "Leovit" - instructions for use

The Leovit company has been producing stevia tablets for several years in a row. This product is most popular and in demand in pharmacies as a sweetener. Stevia tablets are considered a natural dietary supplement that can have a beneficial effect on humans.

One small stevia tablet Brown from "Leovit" contains plant leaf extract - 140 mg. This dose is quite sufficient for initial and systematic use.

Indications for use of stevia:

• Diabetes
• Impaired metabolism
• Impaired carbohydrate metabolism in the body
• Obesity
• Weak immunity
• Skin diseases
• Prevention of aging
• Disruption of the gastrointestinal tract
• Insufficient secret
• Pancreatic diseases
• Low acidity
• Intestinal disorder
• Diseases of the heart and vascular system
• High cholesterol

Contraindications to the use of stevia:

• Allergy
• Individual intolerance
• Receptive Gut

Stavia tablets are intended for internal use. They are needed to sweeten liquids (hot and cold). One or two tablets is enough for disposable. It is important not to exceed daily norm tablets – 8 pieces.

How and who can drink herbal tea with stevia?

Tea with stevia is drunk in case of struggle with overweight, in preventive and medicinal purposes. You can buy the herb at the pharmacy, or you can grow it yourself in the garden or even on the windowsill. You can add stevia leaves to any other tea to sweeten it.

How to brew tea, several ways:

• First way: pour in fresh leaves boiling water and let them brew for 5-7 minutes.
• Second way: Pour boiling water over the dry herb and let it brew for 3-4 minutes.
• Third way: add fresh or dry leaves to regular tea.

Stevia tea brewing recipe:

• Stevia – 20-25 gr.
• Boiling water 60-70 degrees – 500 ml.

Preparation:

• Pour boiling water over the grass
• Infuse the herb for 5 minutes with the lid closed
• Strain the resulting tea
• Pour the squeezed herb back into the thermos with boiling water and leave for 5-6 hours.
• Drink tea three times a day
• Drink tea half an hour before meals

How and who can use stevia syrup?

Stevia syrup is often used to cook dietary and healthy jam from fruits and berries. The syrup is also added to tea, water or coffee. small quantities to sweeten the drink. Compotes and other drinks are brewed with syrup: lemonade, infusion, herbal decoctions, even cocoa.

IMPORTANT: Concentrated and sweet syrup is used for medicinal and for preventive purposes, but not for weight loss. Stevia syrup is obtained by boiling the herb for a long time. This is a very concentrated substance and should be added to drinks in limited quantities: just a few drops per glass.

How to use stevia powder?

Stevia powder is a substance high concentration and therefore it should be used with caution and in accordance with the dosage. Simply put, the powder is a refined substance called “stevioside.” Exaggerating the dosage of stevia in recipes can spoil the dish and make it have a cloying sweet taste.

Is it possible to take the sweetener stevia during pregnancy and nursing mothers?

Every woman should be attentive to her condition, monitor her health and nutrition, and the development of the fetus. Often pregnant women decide to use stevia. Instead of sugar, so as not to gain extra pounds.

Fortunately, stevia is completely harmless and safe for pregnant women and does not pose any threat to the fetus. Moreover, in the first trimester (when there is often severe nausea) stevia is indicated for use against toxicosis. On the other hand, if a pregnant woman is sick and has diabetes, then taking stevia should definitely be discussed with a doctor.

Another precaution is to take into account the characteristics of your blood pressure; stevia lowers it and therefore can play a “wicked joke” on a woman’s health and cause harm. In no case should you violate the prescribed dosage so as not to worsen your condition.

Can children take the sweetener stevia?

As you know, children are big lovers of sweets from birth, when they try their mother’s breast milk. Older children often indulge in excessive consumption of chocolate and sugar. You can replace these “harmful” foods by including stevia (syrup, powder, infusion or tablets) in your recipes.

By consuming drinks and homemade sweets with stevia, the child will not only not be able to harm himself with excessive amounts of carbohydrates, but also help himself great benefit: get vitamins, strengthen the immune system and carry out prevention colds. You can give stevia from birth (but this is not required), but from six months you can already slightly sweeten drinks and cereals.

IMPORTANT: Monitor your baby’s sensations to see if he has a rash or intestinal irritation after taking stevia. If everything is fine, then the baby is not allergic to the substance.

Stevia sweetener: reviews

Valeria:“I switched to stevia tablets a long time ago instead of sugar. I know that this is the bare minimum for my health, but I try to behave correct image life and I want not to harm myself with “empty” carbohydrates.”

Daria: “I follow the Dukan diet and constantly use stevia tablets, powder and tea to help me achieve my goal of getting a slim figure.”

Alexander: “I only recently learned about stevia, but since then I can’t live without it. I drink tea - it is pleasant, sweet and tasty. In addition, it expels excess fluid and helps me maintain healthy image life and also lose weight!”

Video: “Life is great! Stevia. Sugar substitute"

Stevia is herbaceous plant from South America, although it now grows throughout the world. Used as a sweetener and medicinal herb in different cultures over the centuries, but in last years has gained particular popularity in modern world. Has a very pronounced sweet taste, which is why it is used as a sweetener.

Counted 100-200 times sweeter than sugar, but does not increase blood levels like other artificial sweeteners. How can this plant be beneficial for health? Let's sort it out medicinal properties stevia leaves.

What is inside

Contains eight glycosides which include:

• stevioside;
• rebaudiosides A, C, D, E and F;
• steviol bioside;
• Dulcoside A;
• vitamins A, B1, B2, C, P, PP, F;
• beta-carotene;
• zinc;
• copper;
• selenium;
• chromium;
• routine;
• quercetin;
• avicularin;
• linolenic acid;
• arachidonic acid.

Stevia contains two compounds that are responsible for its sweetness and make up most of its chemical composition: stevioside and rebaudioside A. The latter is most often used in powders and sweeteners, but is usually not the only ingredient. In fact, most supposedly pure plant sweeteners contain added erythritol from corn, dextrose or other artificial ingredients.

Why is it useful?

The medicinal properties of the herb stevia have a number of benefits for our health.

• Indispensable for people suffering from diabetes: used instead of sugar and sweeteners, which even with high quality are still inferior to “natural” sugar.
• This sweet plant is also unique in that it is valued for what it does NOT do: it does not add calories. And therefore promotes weight loss while leaving sweetness in your life. By keeping your sugar and calorie intake within a healthy range, you can avoid many of the health problems associated with excess weight, such as diabetes and metabolic syndrome.
• The medicinal properties of stevia leaves are also effective in high blood pressure. Glycosides in stevia extract have been found to expand blood vessels, and this is very important for maintaining normal blood pressure.
• Stevia reduces the formation of bacteria in the mouth, making it a popular additive in toothpastes and mouthwashes. It also prevents tooth decay and gingivitis, unlike sugar, which does the exact opposite.
• Suppresses the spread of bacteria and is effective against such dermatological diseases like eczema and dermatitis.
• Strengthens bones and prevents the development of osteoporosis.
• The beneficial properties of this plant can even prevent cancer. Wide range antioxidant compounds makes it an ideal dietary supplement for cancer prevention. The glycosidic compounds in stevia help eliminate free radicals in the body, thereby preventing the transformation healthy cells into malignant ones.
• Antioxidants also help prevent premature aging, cognitive impairment and various others serious problems with health.

Harm

Although stevia is actively added to almost any product and is recognized not only as safe, but very beneficial for our body, it still has its contraindications, but there are very few of them:

• As with any product - allergic reaction. It may be accompanied by a rash, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, swelling, angioedema(Quincke's edema).
• Considering that everything can be harmful in excess, you should not be zealous and consume too much of this, although beneficial, plant.
• Pregnancy and lactation period.

In general, the vast majority of sources indicate that stevia is so safe that it has no contraindications. In any case, you need to introduce this plant into your diet slowly and carefully.

Where can I add

The uses of the herb stevia are varied. Almost anywhere sugar is needed, it will fit perfectly. Worldwide, more than 5,000 food and beverage products now contain stevia as an ingredient: ice cream, desserts, sauces, yoghurts, pickled foods, breads, soft drinks, chewing gum, candy, seafood. But most often the plant is added to:

• Tea . If your tea requires a little sweetness, add the leaves of this shrub to it. Definitely the whole thing. Don't overdo it - stevia is really too sweet. So experiment to find the amount that works best for you. Tea is an ideal use for stevia leaves: they will make your morning drink not only sweeter, but also healthier.
• Smoothie. If you want to start your day with a wholesome and healthy... sweet food, do not use sugar or other sweeteners ( maple syrup, agave syrup, etc.). And take a stevia leaf. Fresh, green, sweet and healthy - add it to your smoothie ingredients and blend! Again, don't overdo it, even 2 leaves of stevia may be too sweet for most people.
• Bakery . Stevia can be easily powdered by drying the leaves, grinding them into a powder, and storing them in a storage container. This opens up a whole new world of possibilities, especially for baking. Remember: 1 cup of sugar = 2-3 teaspoons of powder. Sweet and healthy.

Recipes

• Grind the dry leaves into powder, put a tablespoon of the resulting powder in a glass, pour boiling water, cover with something suitable, wait until the tea steeps (about 20-25 minutes).
• Smoothie. Mix a cup of blackberries, blueberries, strawberries, 2 cups of milk (soy, coconut, almond) and a tablespoon of plant powder (or a few fresh leaves).
• Lemon jelly. Freshly squeezed lemon juice(2 cups), water (2 cups), pectin (4 teaspoons), plant powder (1.5 teaspoons).
• Chocolate ice cream. Cocoa powder (3/4 cup), 1 egg, 1 cup milk, vanilla extract (1 teaspoon), whipping cream (2 cups), powder (2/3 teaspoon).

Stevia is a wonderful and amazing plant, as it can not only replace in our diet harmful sugar, but keep us happy and able to eat sweets. After all, this is wonderful: eating your favorite muffins and drinking sweet cappuccino, and with good health too. And other various medicinal properties of stevia leaves only confirm the absolute safety and benefits of having this plant in our diet.

Stevia - what is it? A perennial subtropical plant that middle lane grown as an annual. It is a fluffy bush, highly branched. The height reaches approximately 70 cm. The leaves are simple, arranged in pairs. The flowers are white, small. The horse system is very well developed, so if you decide to grow stevia in a pot, then you need to choose suitable size. And now about the most important thing - why is stevia so popular? What is this substance contained in its leaves that allows it to protrude? the best substitute Sahara? Let's figure it out together.

Nature never ceases to amaze

Indeed, stevia leaves contain a glycoside - stevioside. This is a natural substance that is 300 times sweeter than sucrose. This means that there is a way out for those with a sweet tooth - eat your favorite sweets, lollipops, pastries, and absolutely not worry about your figure, since, unlike sugar, this substance does not contain calories. For diabetics, people with carbohydrate metabolism disorders and cardiovascular diseases a real find is stevia. The world learned that this is the only natural analogue of sugar not so long ago, although the plant has been cultivated in its homeland for many centuries. Its leaves are used fresh or dried, and for ease of use you can purchase syrup or extract at the pharmacy.

Use in everyday life

Many people are unusual in using leaves instead of sugar, but in vain. They are added to various drinks, coffee, tea and cocktails. Despite the greenish tint and specific taste that you get used to, stevia makes it possible to consume sweets without harm to your health and figure. At the same time, the plant does not change its properties when heated, which means it can be used for making baked goods, jam and other dishes. It is also resistant to low temperatures, as well as exposure to acids. This means that stevia is also well suited for freezing, as well as for preparing fruit juices and drinks, including oranges and lemons. What kind of plant this is and how to use it, few people know yet, but gradually its popularity is growing, people pass seeds to each other and tell each other how to grow them at home and in the country. Today we will talk about how to grow and use honey grass.

Chemical composition

Before planting, much less consuming, it’s a good idea to find out what stevia is. Every herbalist knows the medicinal properties of this plant, but let’s first look at what useful elements it gives to the body. To date, research has confirmed that the leaves contain a large number of vitamins A, C, P, E, as well as microelements, essential oils, polysaccharides, glycosides, fiber. impart, as we have already mentioned, stevioside glycosides, which are hundreds of times sweeter than sugar. However, here I would like to note that this only applies to powder produced using special technologies, which essentially represents the production of a concentrate or extract. Simple leaves, which you pick from a plant, dry and grind in a coffee grinder, are only 15 times sweeter than sugar, that is, a spoonful of such powder cannot replace 300 spoons of sugar. But it has an undeniable advantage: it contains no calories.

Stevia: medicinal properties of the plant

The chemical composition of this plant has the ability to save a person from many health problems. It is especially widely used in alternative medicine. Herbalists call it a medicine plant and a recipe. eternal youth. It has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic, bactericidal and choleretic effects. This composition allows you to maintain the body’s immune strength and effectively respond to pathogenic viruses and bacteria. In addition, an antiallergic effect is noted, which is also closely related to the body’s immune system, as well as a pronounced diuretic and antifungal effect. The only reason why you need to adhere to a certain dosage is that overuse of stevia can negatively affect performance.

Unique amino acids

We have only revealed common list beneficial properties, I would like to dwell in more detail on a few more points. Stevia leaves contain the essential amino acid lysine. It is one of the key elements of the hematopoiesis process and is actively involved in the formation of hormones, antibodies and enzymes. Lysine plays an important role in the healing of skin defects and restoration of the musculoskeletal system after injuries. Another acid that the leaves contain is methionine. It is extremely important for people who live in unfavorable environmental conditions. It helps protect the body from the harmful effects of radiation. In addition, it is extremely important for the liver, as it prevents fatty degeneration.

Gastrointestinal protection

Stevia leaves contain exactly the set of microelements that are necessary for good functioning of the stomach and intestines. The plant has anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties. This is extremely important, since the walls of our stomach are often exposed to negative impact too much spicy food, acids and enzymes. Any imbalance threatens their integrity and threatens the formation of ulcers.

Regular use of stevia helps protect the stomach from the effects of strong alcohol and spices. Besides, unique plant allows you to restore microflora to normal after a course of antibiotics or poisoning (alcohol, medication or food). Stevia also has a positive effect on the pancreas.

The cardiovascular system

And here stevia showed itself well. The plant can have a beneficial effect on the condition of the heart, blood vessels and capillaries, which is easily explained by the presence of flavonoids. It is these substances that provide strength to the walls of our blood vessels and help overcome spasms. The presence only enhances the vascular strengthening effect. Without it, full synthesis of collagen, which is necessary for the elasticity of blood vessels and the activity of the heart muscle, is impossible.

Stevia syrup provides the body essential microelements. These are potassium, phosphorus and magnesium. Thanks to this “cocktail”, thrombus formation is prevented, the amount of bad cholesterol in blood. Reduced risk inflammatory processes, which means stevia is a plant that effectively fights heart attacks and strokes.

Musculoskeletal system

As already mentioned, stevia extract contains a large number of microelements. They are vital for the full development and functioning of cartilage tissue and bones. These are calcium and vitamin D, silicon and lysine, that is, the set that is able to compensate the body for minimal physical activity, passive rest, working in unnatural positions, excess weight. Stevia is recommended by surgeons and orthopedists for diseases such as osteochondrosis and arthrosis. As you can see, stevia extract can be used not only for weight loss, but also for general health improvement, strengthening and healing the body. This can easily be grown on your windowsill. Let's look at the features of cultivation.

Selection of site and soil

First of all, you need to get the stevia seeds themselves. Today this can be done in specialized stores, from familiar summer residents or via the Internet. With the arrival of spring, it is necessary to choose a place for future plantings. if you have personal plot, then choose the sunniest place protected from the wind. In the shade, the leaves will not accumulate as much sweet steoside. It is best if legumes grew in the selected area last year. The composition of the soil is also very important; it should be light and loose, with a slightly acidic reaction. If your site is very different, take out some of the garden soil and add a special store-bought mixture there. You can prepare your own mixture of peat, forest humus and river sand.

Planting seeds

Stevia seeds are sown for seedlings in late March - early April. In the middle zone it is used as an annual; 16-18 weeks after sowing, the leaves are harvested and the plant is dug up. Although it can grow in a pot all year round. Contrary to general opinion, stevia from seeds is quite easy to grow. The seeds, of course, are small, but this is not a problem. Mix them with fine sand and carefully spread them over the surface of the light earthen mixture. They do not need to be covered with soil, just lightly sprayed with water and covered with glass or polyethylene. As soon as the sprouts appear, remove the glass and move the pot to the brightest place. With the appearance of a pair of true leaves, it is necessary to pick.

Planting in open ground

With the onset of sustained heat, the plants should be moved to the garden bed. If you plan to grow stevia on a window, then choose a wide, not too deep, large pot, transplant one strong sprout into it and place it in the sunniest and warmest place, perhaps on the balcony. Typically, planting is done when the air temperature during the day rises to +15-29 degrees. It is advisable to plant in the evening and cover the plants from the bright sun the next day. A thickened planting is preferred. Immediately the plant needs to be hilled up to a height of 1/3 of the length of the trunk and watered well. This is almost all the information on how to grow stevia. With regular weed removal, watering and fertilizing, you can expect a good harvest of sweet foliage. Do not forget that this plant is originally a perennial, so it is advisable to dig up the roots in the fall and store them in the cellar until next year. Some can be planted in pots so that you have fresh leaves in winter.

Winter storage

After harvesting, the rhizomes should be dug up along with the ground and dried. After that, take a large box and pour soil into it, put the crusts on top and cover it with moist soil right up to the stumps. This is how stevia overwinters. Care is about maintaining the correct temperature regime. At temperatures above +8, premature growth will begin, and temperatures below +4 are fraught with death of the roots.

You have one last task left - to prepare the collected stems. To do this, they are simply collected in bunches and hung to dry in a shaded place. After complete drying, you can put it in a linen bag and take it out as needed. The resulting raw materials are ground in a coffee grinder and added to various dishes taste. Judging by the reviews, the herbal taste in drinks is almost invisible. This is how amazing stevia is. Its application is very wide - cocktails and jelly desserts, drinks and favorite pastries (sweet, but without extra calories).

Stevia extract

For your own convenience, prepare a syrup or extract that you can add to your taste in various dishes. To do this, you need to pour whole leaves with alcohol or regular vodka and leave for a day. Don't worry, you won't have to drink alcohol. The next day, carefully filter the infusion from leaves and powder. If necessary, repeat this procedure. To evaporate all the alcohol, you need to heat the resulting infusion. To do this, pour into a metal bowl and place on low heat; the mixture should not boil. The alcoholic substances gradually evaporate, and you are left with a pure extract. You can prepare it in the same way aqueous extract, but the beneficial substances are not extracted as completely as in the case of alcohol. But by evaporating the water, you can achieve a high concentration. The properties of stevia do not deteriorate from heating.

Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants

Photo of leaves of the herb medicinal plant Stevia honey

Stevia - medicinal properties, drug, dietary supplement

Stevia honey- a remedy for reducing blood sugar, diabetes, obesity, lowering blood pressure, supporting immunity, dental caries; and a bactericidal and detoxifying agent.

Latin name: Stevia rebaudiana.

English name: Sweetleaf, Sweet leaf, Sugarleaf, or simply Stevia.

Family: Asteraceae - Asteraceae.

Common names: honey grass.

Stevia parts used: leaves.

Botanical description: Honey stevia is a perennial plant reaching a height of 60-80 cm. It is a very highly branched bush. The leaves are simple and arranged in pairs. The flowers are white, small. The root system is fibrous, well developed.

Active ingredients: a complex molecule called stevioside, which is a glycoside composed of glucose, sophorose and steviol.

Useful, medicinal properties and applications

Stevia honey herb leaves included in Stevia sweetener powder , slimming tea "Smart Mil" , fluoride-free toothpaste Sunshine Bright And Fluoride-free toothpaste Sunshine Bright with xylitol and baking soda , produced by international standard GMP quality for medicines.

Natural sweetener from the leaves of the herb Stevia honey in powder

The whole world is talking about stevia and its rare beneficial properties. Japanese centenarians use it as a sugar substitute. Since 1997, the Pentagon began to supplement the diet of its army with it. In the former Soviet Union, it was grown specifically for the table of members of the Politburo, so information about this extraordinary plant long years remained classified. Finally, the IX World Symposium on Diabetes and Longevity, held in China in 1990, confirmed: stevia is one of the most valuable plants, helping to increase the level of human bioenergetic capabilities, allowing one to lead active image life to a ripe old age, for which she was awarded a gold prize.

Sugar is not the healthiest substance for our health. Dysbacteriosis, diabetes, obesity, allergies, diseased skin - these are the most striking examples of excessive sugar addiction.

Stevia is a low-calorie sugar substitute, especially important for improving the diet for intestinal diseases, diabetes mellitus, carbohydrate metabolism disorders and cardiovascular diseases(atherosclerosis, hypertension, obesity, etc.), as well as for their active prevention!

Stevia honey has a cardiotonic effect. Normalizes the functioning of the liver and gall bladder. Helps normalize work gastrointestinal tract. Has an anti-inflammatory effect. Inhibits growth and reproduction pathogenic bacteria and pathogenic microorganisms. In addition to sweet glycosides, stevia contains many other substances beneficial to the human body: antioxidant flavonoids (rutin, quercetin, etc.), minerals(potassium, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, silicon, zinc, copper, selenium, chromium), vitamins C, A, E, B vitamins.

The sweet secretion of stevia honey lies in a complex molecule called stevioside, which is a glycoside consisting of glucose, sophorose and steviol. It is this complex molecule and a number of other related substances that are responsible for stevia's extraordinary sweetness. The herb stevia in its natural form approximately 10-15 times sweeter than regular sugar. Stevia extracts in the form of steviosides can range in sweetness from 100 to 300 times that of sugar.

And, best of all, according to most experts, honey stevia does not affect blood sugar metabolism. Some studies even report that stevia reduces plasma glucose levels in normal adults.

Artificial sugar substitutes

A person always associates sweet taste with a delicacy, with something pleasant. Sweets are necessary for humans. They harmonize the body, filling it with energy. What sweets do we prefer? Today our diet is dominated by simple carbohydrates, mostly sugar. Over the last century, its consumption has increased several dozen times. At the beginning of the 20th century, a person managed 3 - 6g. sugar per day, today in his daily diet includes up to 60 -120g. Sahara. The consequences are very disappointing - overload of the body's enzyme system, disruption of cell nutrition, distortion of all types of metabolism. This has led to an increase in such “diseases of the century” as diabetes mellitus, atherosclerosis, osteoporosis, diseases endocrine system, decreased immunity.

Realizing that excessive consumption of sugar leads to disastrous results, scientists invented its artificial analogues, which began to be strongly recommended and used in the “sweet” industry. What properties do sugar substitutes that are popular today all over the world (including in Ukraine) have?

The American magazine Catalist published research data showing that the use of widely used sweeteners such as aspartame, saccharin, acesulfame, etc. is associated with health risks. TO side effects include diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, headaches, rashes, depression, weakened memory and vision, and nervous disorders.

Nature itself helped find a way out of a seemingly hopeless situation, giving humanity such universal plant- stevia.

Everyone knows that a person consumes food to satisfy his energy needs. But not everyone thinks about the fact that when overeating, consuming incompatible products, meat, fatty foods the body expends more energy to process it than it receives. Is it possible to feel energetic, cheerful, cheerful, consuming minimally? required amount food and at the same time receiving all the substances necessary for the functioning of the body?

Stevia in this sense is irreplaceable. This is a living source of energy. At regular use stevia and others plant products, the body is so saturated with energy that the sense of appetite decreases and the need to overeat disappears. Human nutrition becomes more selective.

Scientific research shows that stevia is not only effective prophylactic drug, but also powerful therapeutic agent with a pronounced homeopathic effect.

Hypoglycemic effect of stevia

The ability of stevia to stimulate insulin secretion has been revealed. In Brazil, stevia tea and stevia capsules are officially approved for the treatment of patients with diabetes.

Hypotensive effect of stevia

Steviosides are capable of reducing systemic arterial pressure. The diuretic effect of steviosides has been proven. Long-term use stevia causes a cardiotonic effect, having a positive effect on the activity of the cardiovascular system.

The use of stevia for obesity

Honey stevia is a calorie-free product and has a biologically complex active substances, normalizing carbohydrate metabolism in the body (obesity treatment). Products with stevia honey are included in the diet of many weight loss diets. Without changing their usual lifestyle, enjoying food containing stevia, people with overweight bodies gradually and safely lose weight.

Antimicrobial properties of stevia

Stevia honey slows down the growth and reproduction of many microbes, and the vitamins and minerals contained in stevia leaves are necessary for normal functioning immune system. To prevent colds and flu, it is recommended to take tea with stevia.

The effect of stevia on the skin

Stevia honey infusion is wonderful cosmetic product for skin care, inhibits the growth of bacteria, causing inflammation and acne formation. Masks made from stevia infusion make the skin soft, elastic, eliminate irritation, and prevent the appearance of wrinkles.

The effect of stevia on the digestive organs

Stevia provides beneficial influence on the functions of the pancreas and liver. Tea with stevia is useful for increased gas formation, heartburn, and normalizes the acidity of gastric juice.

Detoxifying properties of stevia

Stevia has antioxidant properties (vitamin C, carotene, minerals, Zn, Se). Soft diuretic effect plants promote the removal of metabolic products, toxins and salts heavy metals from the body.

Stevia has anti-caries properties

Stevia steviosides inhibit the development of many pathogens, therefore, stevia is recommended for diseases of the oral cavity: it protects teeth from caries, and gums from periodontal disease, which is common cause tooth loss, including diabetes. Toothpastes and chewing gums with stevioside are produced abroad.

General tonic properties of stevia

Slimming tea with leaves of the herb stevia honey

The history of the appearance of stevia in Europe

As noted above, Antonio Bertoni was the first to discover stevia in 1887. Around 1901. a man named C. Gosling, who was the British consul in Asunción, was able to write: " medicinal plant stevia, which has been known to the Indians (Guarani) for a hundred years or more, and whose secret, as usual, was so strictly kept by them, grows in the highlands of Amambai and near the source of the Mandi River... Its leaves are small, and its flower is even smaller, and the Indians call it Kaa'-ehe, which means sweet grass, because of its sweetness, and just a few leaves are enough to sweeten a large cup of tea, which also gives a pleasant aroma.

Two French chemists named Brided and Lavelle began to unravel the mystery of stevia honey in 1931, with research work with Stevia Rebaudiana leaf extract. Their research resulted in a pure white crystalline substance, which they named "stevioside", obtained in 6% yield. They found that the substance was 300 times sweeter than sugar and had no apparent toxic effects in a variety of experimental animals.

In 1941 Due to the shortage of sugar and other sweeteners in Great Britain due to the German submarine blockade, a substitute sweetener was sought that could be grown in the British Isles. The director of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, commissioned R. Melville to investigate stevia as one possible possibility. Melville's report shows that he believed Stevia Rebaudiana might be just the substitute they were looking for.

The work of Bridel and Lavelle was continued in 1952. a group of researchers in National Institute in Arthritis and Metabolic Diseases, which is affiliated with the US Community Health Service in Bethasta, Maryland. Both increased stevioside yield to 7% based on an improved extraction procedure and revealed the key features of the large and complex stevioside molecule. Their research also confirmed that stevioside is the sweetest natural product found, that it is non-nitrogenous and contains almost no glucose.

In 1954 The Japanese began to seriously study honey stevia and grow it in greenhouses in Japan. And in 1971 Chinese scientist Dr. Tei-Fu-Chen visited Paraguay, where he became so interested in stevia honey that he applied for residence permits in both Paraguay and Brazil. A non-chemical extraction method recorded in the herbal manuscripts of the Chinese Emperors became the method for extracting the stevia product, it removed both the unwanted color and bitter taste from the stevia leaves. Shortly after Chen began his research on stevia, a Japanese food industry began to use it in a wide variety. Interestingly, one of the main uses of stevia in Japan is in salty foods, where stevioside is needed to suppress the pungency of sodium chloride. This combination is common in the Japanese diet in foods such as pickled vegetables, dried seafood, soy sauce and miso products. Stevia is also used in drinks, including the Japanese version of Diet Cook. Stevia has also been used in candies and chewing gums, baked foods and cereals, yogurt and ice cream, ciders and teas, and toothpastes and mouthwashes. Of course, a significant part of Japanese stevia honey is consumed directly as a table sweetener.

Today, stevia honey is grown and used throughout the world for its incredible sweetening properties. It has been studied for potential beneficial effects for diabetics.

Multiple studies have shown that stevia honey is safe for human use, and it is now widely used as a substitute for both sugar and artificial sweeteners.

Contraindications for the use of stevia not detected.