Stevia Leaf
Stevia leaf is a naturally sweet herb used as a sugar alternative. Whole-leaf stevia and refined stevia extracts (steviol glycosides) differ in taste and potency, but both can help reduce added sugar. For many people, the biggest ‘benefit’ is simply cutting sugar without feeling punished.
Key Benefits
- Helps reduce added sugar intake while keeping sweetness
- Keto/low-carb friendly sweetening option
- May support better post-meal glucose patterns by replacing sugar (not by ‘curing’ anything)
- Works well in teas and simple homemade syrups
Common Issues It May Help With
- Sugar reduction support
- Sweet cravings (diet support)
- High sugar intake (diet support)
How To Use (Simple)
- Tea: add a tiny pinch of dried leaf, steep 5–8 minutes (too much can taste bitter). Extract powders/liquids: start with very small amounts—stevia is potent. Combine with cinnamon or vanilla to round out flavor.
Taste / Notes
Very sweet with a possible bitter/licorice aftertaste (especially whole leaf or higher amounts).
Evidence Level
Good evidence for sugar replacement benefits; direct metabolic effects are modest and vary by individual and product.
Cautions
Generally well tolerated. Some people experience bloating or GI discomfort, especially with blends that include sugar alcohols (erythritol, etc.). If you have ragweed-family plant sensitivities, use caution and test small amounts.
Interactions
May modestly lower blood sugar; monitor if on diabetes medications when making major diet changes May modestly lower blood pressure; monitor if on blood pressure medications No major drug interactions known at normal food-level use
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