What Are the Benefits of Green Stevia?

Green stevia, or Eupatorium rebaudianum, is a leafy plant native to Colombia, Brazil, Paraguay and Venezuela. Since its use by the Guarani Indians in this region began 1,500 years ago, green stevia has been used a medicinal herb in many parts of the world.

Known Function

• Green stevia is naturally sweet and frequently used as a sugar substitute by people who wish to limit glucose consumption. This is especially useful to diabetics who need to avoid sugary foods and drinks.

Potential

• Some believe that green stevia directly lowers both blood pressure and blood sugar levels; however, this has not been scientifically proven, according to RxList.

Uses

• Despite a lack of scientific evidence for its effects, herbalists and other alternative medical practitioners use green stevia as a treatment for a variety of conditions, including hypertension, diabetes, heartburn, water retention and heart problems. Some use the plant to aid in weight loss, and in some parts of the world, green stevia is used to prevent pregnancy.

Side Effects

• Green stevia has the potential to cause some side effects, including bloating, nausea, dizziness, muscle pain and numbness, according to RxList. It is also possible to develop an allergic reaction to green stevia, particularly if you are sensitive to flowers in the daisy or chrysanthemum families.

Considerations

• Green stevia works as a diuretic in some patients, and for people who take the psychiatric drug lithium, this poses a risk for harmful side effects from the medication. Because its effects on fetal development and infants are not known, avoid taking the drug if you are pregnant or nursing.