Stevia is a species of herbs that is native to Paraguay and commonly used as a sugar substitute. The extracts that come from this herb are up to 300 times sweeter than sugar and completely natural. This natural sweetener has been gaining popularity due to the increased use of alternate sweeteners, although this is not where this herb’s advantages end. Stevia has also been used to treat obesity, high blood pressure, oral health and diabetes, and skin problems.

Because it inhibits the growth of bacteria, stevia is an excellent addition to toothpastes and mouthwashes as it helps prevent gum diseases and tooth decay. Gum that is sweetened with stevia instead of sugar is also a great choice, as it promotes tooth health instead of tooth decay.

Stevia can help treat obesity in that it is an excellent substitute for sugar. Those that are used to eating sweets can make healthier choices without losing the flavor that they are used to. Also, as this herb is natural, it is easily digested by the body and does not turn directly to fat as sugar does.

We all know that sugar is not good for you, and the health of your inner body reflects on your skin. Many people who have switched to stevia claim that the benefits to the skin are undeniable. Studies have shown the leaf of stevia to contain protein, calcium, fiber, potassium, and other essential vitamins and nutrients. It is now put in shampoos as well as facial care lines that are usually sold in health food stores.

Although Stevia has been shown to provide numerous health benefits, oddly enough, it is still not seen on store shelves or in the ingredients in many foods in most countries. Although Japan has embraced this herb and now uses it as a sweetener for many of their foods, the rest of the world has not jumped on the band wagon quite yet. This may be because many countries do not feel that there has been enough study done on this herb to ensure its safeness and therefore will not legalize it to be added into foods until this has been proven.