Botanical Name: Stevia rebaudiana
Common Name:
- English: Sugar leaves,
- Also, known as: Yaa Wann, Bertoni, Caaehe
Habitat: Stevia is indigenous to South America
Origin: India
Harvested: Wild & Cultivated
Parts Used: Leaves
General Information:
This leaf is a native of Brazil and Paraguay but is currently grown widely in South East Asia and China as a sugar substitute for diabetics, hypoglycemics, and weight-conscious individuals. By weight, it is up to 300 times sweeter than sugar but has virtually no calories.
A perennial herb with erect, somewhat woody branches up to 0.6 m or 2 ft bearing small white florets arranged in few-flowered heads at the tips of the stems. The fruits are small, one-seeded, wind-dispersed achenes. A perennial herb with erect, somewhat woody branches up to 0.6 m or 2 ft bearing small white florets arranged in few-flowered heads at the tips of the stems. The fruits are small, one-seeded, wind-dispersed achenes.
How to use:
Hot Infusion:
The basic method for dried herbs and flower is, take 2-3 tablespoons of dried herb in a cup or teapot. Pour hot water over it and cover it with lid for 10-30 minutes. Hot water is needed to draw out the antioxidants, enzymes, vitamins, flavonoids, and volatile oils from the botanicals. Strain and squeeze out as much as liquid as possible and enjoy!
Tips:
- You can sweeten your herbal tea with a bit of honey, natural fruit juice, stevia leaves powder and or licorice root powder.
- You can make ice cubes or pops by freezing tea in ice trays or pop molds.
Precautions:
You should consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.
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This information has not been evaluated by Health Canada.
This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.