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DISCLAIMER: These pages are presented solely as a source of INFORMATION and ENTERTAINMENT and to provide stern warnings against use where appropriate. No claims are made for the efficacy of any herb nor for any historical herbal treatment. In no way can the information provided here take the place of the standard, legal, medical practice of any country. Additionally, some of these plants are extremely toxic and should be used only by licensed professionals who have the means to process them properly into appropriate pharmaceuticals. One final note: many plants were used for a wide range of illnesses in the past, but be aware that many of the historical uses have proven to be ineffective for the problems to which they were applied.


STEVIA
(Stevia rebaudiana)
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PROPAGATION: By cuttings in summer and by root division in spring. Tender perennial. Pot grown in the north.
NEEDS: Full sun to partial shade and average soil and conditions.
HARVEST: Leaves.
FLOWERS: Tiny and white.

USES

MEDICINAL:
Antibacterial, anti-fungal, anti-yeast.
Has been used for first aid treatment for cuts and abrasions.
Reduces blood sugar levels due to presence of steviocide.

CULINARY:
Dried leaves are ground into a powder and used the same as powdered sugar. There is about 1 calorie in every 10 leaves. As much as 300 times sweeter than sugar. Use 1 tsp in place of 1 C. of sugar. Perfect sweetener for herbal teas. Concentrate can be stored in refrigerator and used in cooking and to sweeten beverages.
CONCENTRATE = 2 C. distilled water, 1/2 oz. dried Stevia; bring water to a boil, then lower heat to medium and add the Stevia; boil 3 minutes and remove from heat; allow to steep until cool; strain and refrigerate.
ALSO - Steep 1 Tbsp of dried Stevia in 1 qt. boiling water; use the sweet liquid in cooking.



©2001 by Ernestina Parziale, CH

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