Stevia (Stevia rebaudiana) is a naturally sweet herb used as a sugar alternative in both modern and traditional wellness practices. Native to South America, stevia leaves have been used for centuries by the Guaraní people of Paraguay and Brazil to sweeten teas and support daily balance—long before it was known as a “zero-calorie sweetener.”
Mild and green when dried, stevia leaf is a simple, plant-based way to add sweetness without refined sugar.
Traditionally, stevia has been used to:
Sweeten herbal teas, especially bitter blends
Provide a naturally sweet taste without raising blood sugar
Support sugar reduction in wellness routines
Serve as a flavorful addition to infusions, drinks, and recipes
Many herbalists include whole stevia leaf in their tea blends to soften the flavor of stronger herbs.
Stevia has been used for over 1,500 years by the Guaraní people, who called it ka'a he'ê, meaning “sweet herb.” It was used not only to flavor their drinks but also in daily life for its gentle, supportive nature.
European interest in stevia grew in the 1800s, and today it's widely used as a natural alternative to artificial sweeteners. While most commercial stevia products are refined extracts, whole stevia leaf maintains a more natural balance and a green, mildly sweet flavor.
In folk traditions, it was also used in low-sugar herbal formulations and as part of routines focused on balance and wellness.
Stevia is a leafy green plant in the sunflower family, originally native to Paraguay and Brazil. It grows easily in warm climates and has a slightly fuzzy texture with serrated leaves.
The sweetness comes from natural compounds in the leaves called steviol glycosides, which are many times sweeter than sugar. When dried, the leaves can be used whole, powdered, or steeped in tea.
Whole stevia leaf can be used in several simple, natural ways:
In teas – especially to balance bitter herbs like dandelion or licorice
Infused into tinctures or glycerites – for a touch of sweetness
As a powder – to sprinkle in drinks or recipes (start small!)
In culinary blends – such as smoothies, oatmeal, or baking mixes
Paired with other herbs – like peppermint, lemon balm, or cinnamon
Its flavor is sweeter and more plant-like than refined stevia extracts, so it’s often used in small amounts.
Whole stevia leaf is generally considered safe when used in moderation. Those with low blood pressure or certain medical conditions should consult a qualified practitioner before use. Whole leaf stevia is regulated differently from stevia extracts and is not currently approved as a food additive in some countries, though it is commonly used in herbal teas and supplements.