Stevia rebaudiana
Posted: December 5th, 2013, 8:12 pm
| Botanical Name | Stevia rebaudiana |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Stevia |
| Specie | rebaudiana |
| Common Name | Stevia, Sweet Herb of Paraguay,sugar leaf |
| Life Cycle | Tropicals and Tender Perennials |
| Fragrant or Not | no |
| Category(Bush/Vine/Tree) | shrub |
| Height | 24-36 in. |
| Spacing | 24-36 in. |
| Flowering Months | Blooms repeatedly |
| Flower Color | white |
| Growing Areas | All Pakistan |
| Frost Tender | yes |
| Exposure | full sun/partial shade |
| Soil pH | tolerent |
| Propagation | From woody stem cuttings From seed By air layering |
| Uses | Stevia is used as a natural sweetener |
| Other Details | stevia is 300 times more sweeter than sugar.Stevia is a small shrub like perennial plant which belongs to sunflower (Asteraceae) family. The leaves of Stevia are a source of natural zero-calorie sweetener which is considered sweeter than sugar (sucrose). It has been used all over the world as a sugar substitute and in the treatment of a number of health conditions for centuries. Initially the leaves of Stevia were consumed fresh or dried but eventually chemists isolated the glycosides called stevioside and rebaudioside from its leaves that give stevia its sweet taste. Stevia also contains phytonutrients, trace elements, minerals, vitamins and volatile oils which give Stevia its nutritional and medicinal properties. In 2008, FDA (The Food and Drug Administration) approved sweetener derived from the herb stevia as safe for use in foods and beverages. The steviols glycosides are now used in herbal supplements, foods and beverages, and as sweetening powders and syrups. Unlike other sweeteners, Stevia can be used in baking and cooking and its lesser amount is ample. medicinal uses. A number of studies show that Stevia can be beneficial in the treatment of many health conditions. Stevia is believed to have anti-bacterial, anti-septic, anti-microbial, anti-oxidant, anti-glycemic, and anti-hypertensive properties which may help with hypertension (high blood pressure), diabetes, chronic fatigue, indigestion, upset stomach, heartburn, weight loss, cold and flu, gingivitis, tooth decay, cavities, dandruff and hair loss, brittle bones or osteoporosis, streptococcus, candidiasis, bacterial infections and skin conditions such as cuts, wounds, rashes, itchiness, blemishes, acne, seborrhoeic dermatitis, dermatitis, eczema, and wrinkles. It may also improve energy levels, strengthen immune system, stimulate mental activity, and may also help in withdrawl from tobacco and alcohol addiction. Growing Stevia. Sow seeds shallowly in a well-drained soil mix in flats at a temperature of 68-75 F (20-24 C). Transplant to 3" pots when seedlings are large enough to handle. Do not over-water. For bushier plants, pinch back growing tips every few weeks for the first 1-2 months after germination.Stevia is also an ideal plant to grow in containers as a houseplant, or in the greenhouse. For container growing, choose a pot that is at least 14" across, and provide soil that is well-drained. Maintain even soil moisture, and provide shade in extreme heat. How to harvest. Pick in the morning and before flowering occurs for highest sugar content. Leaves may be harvested throughout the season once the plant has become established, with the main harvest occurring in September or October. Fresh or dried leaves are delicious in salads, sauces, and beverages. To dry, hang small bunches of stems in a well-ventilated, dry area out of direct sun. Dried leaves may be ground into powder for storage. Fresh leaves can be used to make a liquid sweetener by steeping one teaspoonful of dried leaves in one cup of boiling water for 5-10 minutes. |
