Abstract
Stevia, the natural sweetener obtained from the leaves of Stevia rebaudiana plant has found commercial application as a sugar substitute in foods, beverages, or medicines all over the world. The leaves of this plant naturally contain diterpene glycosides stevioside, rebaudiosides A-F, steviolbioside, and dulcoside, which are responsible for its sweet taste. As the human body does not metabolize the glycosides in stevia, it contributes to zero calories. Many preclinical and clinical studies have revealed the pharmacological and therapeutic applications of stevia. It is reported to possess antioxidant, antimicrobial, antifungal, prebiotic, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antiobesity, and anticarcinogenic activity. This review focus on the functional aspects related to this natural sweetener and the plant.
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