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Stevia |
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Stevia
STEVIA
(Stevia rebaudiana)
History and Folklore
Stevia is a perennial shrub of the Aster family that is native to the mountainous border region between Paraguay and Brazil. Guarani Indians have used this herb for thousands of years before European colonists 'discovered' it and caused a stir with it in Europe. At first it was thought to be a rare herb, but this was due to the fact that the botanist who first described it did not know its natural habitat and was looking for it in the wrong places. Eventually it was discovered growing close to another Paraguayan favourite - Mate, which is often sweetened with Stevia. On closer examination Stevia has been found to be one of the sweetest naturally occurring substances with the unique property of having a caloric value of zero and, unlike artificial sweeteners, being extremely safe to use,. These properties have caused a rush on Stevia from food manufacturers in Japan as early as the 1970. Japan is probably still the most prolific market for foods that are sweetened with Stevia, such as numerous soft drinks and soy sauce among others. The West, with its powerful sugar and artificial sweetener lobbies, has been more reluctant to take advantage of the wholesome properties of this sweet and harmless herb'
Medicinal Uses:
Stevia is mostly used as a sweetening agent. It is 200-300 times sweeter than sugar, yet causes none of its negative effects - it does not cause a weight increase since it contains practically no calories and nor does it cause caries. On the contrary, Stevia is beneficial for diabetics and even reduces blood pressure. It has also been found to be cardiotonic and hypoglycaemic. It is also well tolerated by people suffering from candida.
In Paraguay a preparation involving all aerial parts has be used as a contraceptive. Stevia is extremely safe and may make a great alternative to other sweeteners, especially for those who cannot tolerate conventional sugar or honey due to diabetes or candida. However, it should be noted that the herb has a bit of a funny after taste.
CAUTION
People suffering from low blood pressure should avoid large doses and monitor the effect closely. Stevia may also alter blood sugar level readings and thus dosage requirements for other medications typically given for diabetes.
Magical Uses:
Magical uses of Stevia are not known. It may be used as a sweetener for ritual brews and foods.
BOTANICALS:
Plants nourish and feed us, add spice to our life, bestow health and beauty, scent and colour and brighten our days. They mediate love, hope and gratitude; they clothe and cleanse us, they heal and soothe our bodies, minds and souls. They touch every aspect of our existence, from our daily sustenance to the air we breathe, to the keys to other dimensions. They are the alchemists that turn sunlight into the green force of life, continuously revolving, restoring, rebirthing through the cycles of time. They truly are the greatest gift of nature, yet also the one we most take for granted.
Star Child's range of botanicals derives from many regions and traditions of the world. We supply only the best quality herbs, using organically grown and sustainably harvested sources if available. The greater the demand for organic products the more readily they will become available. Your choice to buy and our commitment to supply organic herbs is part of the driving force that sows the seeds for a greener, healthier future.
USE:
There are dozens of ways in which herbs can be used. Many culinary herbs not only impart a great flavour but also have subtle effect on the digestive process. Other herbs are more medicinal than culinary and can be used as remedies, based on the wisdom of age old traditional plant knowledge. For more detailed information on the different types of preparations that can be made with herbs, please refer to the BOTANICALS USAGE section.
CAUTION
We support the notion of taking responsibility for one's own well being and thus strive to make all herbs available for use at your own discretion. It should be noted however, that not all herbs are safe to use in all circumstances. Special cautions may apply when suffering from certain medical conditions, when taking synthetic prescription drugs and during pregnancy. Research and familiarize yourself with any herb you intend to use and make sure you are aware of all special cautions that may apply. The information given here is based on thousands of years of traditional use. It is intended for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace a visit to a medical professional where this is necessary.
If symptoms persist or re-occur, or if you are suffering from a serious medical condition, or if you are presently taking prescription drugs, we recommend that you consult a qualified doctor or practitioner before attempting to help yourself. Look for a practitioner/doctor who you can trust and who is prepared to explore natural health alternatives with you.
Pregnancy is a very special time. If chosen wisely herbs can give tremendous support throughout the entire process. However, due to the vulnerability and sensitivity of the unborn child it is especially important to make sure that the herbs you are using are safe. (This also applies during the time of breast-feeding as all substances ingested by the mother are processed and passed on with the mother's milk). Many herbs may be useful during the latter stages of pregnancy or during labour, but could be dangerous during the first few months. Inform yourself - don't risk regret.
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