Assessment of stevia (Stevia rebaudiana)-natural sweetener: A review

Stevia (Stevia rebaudiana) is the sweetener of the future. Steviosides and rebaudiosides are the sweetest form of stevia. Stevioside is commonly used as a non-caloric sugar substitute in Japan, Korea, Brazil, China and Paraguay. Pure stevia extract does not affect blood glucose level and may be used freely by diabetics. Stevia also has important role in medical research for treating diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, tooth cavity and skin problems. The safety of stevia extracts has been confirmed by various toxicity, mutagenicity and other studies. Although more recent studies appear to establish the safety of stevia, government agencies have expressed concerns over toxicity, citing lack of sufficient conclusive research.