Unveiling Stevia rebaudiana: origins, composition, and health implications

Abstract

Stevia rebaudiana is an important plant known for its high-quality, non-caloric sugar substitute properties, making it a beneficial option for metabolic disorders. Diabetes and obesity are interlinked and are a surging health issue around the globe. This review article aims to synthesize existing literature to offer a comprehensive understanding of stevia, its origin, nutritional composition, and health implications contributing to the body of knowledge in this area. Research methods employed for this review included a systematic literature search in reputable databases such as PubMed and Web of Science to gather and synthesize relevant findings. This review focuses on the composition of stevia including nutritional profiling) and phytochemical profiling, its metabolic absorption and health implications, emphasizing its role in weight management and glucose regulation. Stevia leaf drying technique for extending the shelf life of the leaves and extraction of steviol glycosides has been thoroughly discussed. This review primarily envisages the mechanisms involved in the therapeutic effects of Stevia rebaudiana components and their contribution toward reducing metabolic diseases.