Herbarium of the Ancients — Detailed NotebookFR · EN
Stevia
Stevia rebaudiana
Read before use: the information below describes traditional and informational uses — it does not replace the advice of a healthcare professional. In case of doubt, pregnancy, breastfeeding, ongoing treatment, or use in children, seek advice before use.
Individuals undergoing treatment for diabetes or hypertension should consult a healthcare professional before regular use, as stevia may interact with certain medications. Excessive or prolonged use is not recommended without medical advice, as data on long-term consumption at high doses remain limited. Prefer whole or minimally processed leaves; highly concentrated commercial extracts do not share the same traditional use. For pregnant or breastfeeding women, prior medical advice is recommended as a precaution.
Infusion — Dried leaves
Gentle stevia infusion
Infuse a few dried stevia leaves, alone or mixed with another herbal tea plant, in hot water for 8 to 10 minutes. Strain before consuming. 2 to 3 dried leaves per cup, adjusting to taste.
Powder — Dried and ground leaves
Dried leaf powder
Dried leaves are ground into a fine powder using a mortar, then used sparingly to sweeten beverages or preparations, following the traditional Guarani method. Dosage should be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.
Chewed fresh leaf — Fresh leaves
Fresh leaf for chewing
A freshly picked leaf can be chewed directly for a few moments to appreciate its sweetness, then spat out or swallowed according to local traditional use. Dosage should be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.
Where to find it
Sourcing the plant
Stevia is available as dried leaves or powder in herbalist shops and specialty stores; it also grows easily in pots in a sunny garden under temperate climates.
Harvest season
When to harvest it
Leaves are traditionally harvested in late summer, just before flowering, when their content of sweet compounds is at its peak.
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