Abstract

In late years there has been an increase of scientific evidence that supports the use of Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni (S.rebaudiana) as an alternative to sucrose and artificial sweeteners. In addition to its utility in different industries, S.rebaudiana contains various chemical components with potential benefits for human health such as polyphenols, chlorophylls, carotenoids, among others, which can be extracted for the production of nutraceuticals and functional foods. So far no adverse effects on human health have been proven after ingestion and favorable results have been documented when S.rebaudiana or its derivates are included in treatments against diabetes, certain types of cancer, glucose intolerance, obesity, dental cavities, among others. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of the clinical, chemical and biochemical literature that presents evidence of the beneficial role of Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni and its metabolites in health promotion properties, as well as its relevance in the pharmaceutical and food industries.

Keywords

stevia leaves, stevia glycosides, phytochemicals, medicinal uses