Abstract
Steviarebaudiana Bertoni (S. rebaudiana for short), native to the Amambay Mountains of South America, is a sweet tasting medicinal plant with a long history of use in traditional medical systems. With the increasing global interest in natural products, their ethnopharmacological value and therapeutic potential have received growing attention from researchers, physicians, patients, and consumers. This review aims to comprehensively assess the ethnobotanical traits, traditional uses, pharmacological activities, major constituents, mechanisms of action, and safety profiles of S. rebaudiana. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using English and Chinese databases—Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, CNKI, Google Scholar, and Elsevier—covering publications up to March 2025, including the keywords “ethnobotany”, “geographical distribution”, “traditional medicine”, “bioactivity”, “phytochemistry”, “pharmacological activities” and “toxicity”. Its taxonomic identity was confirmed using the Medicinal Plant Names Services (MPNS) and Plants of the World Online (POWO). Additional ethnopharmacological monographs and reference works were consulted to supplement database coverage. These findings show that S. rebaudiana has been traditionally used to lower blood glucose levels, reduce inflammation, and promote digestion. Modern research has identified bioactive metabolites, such as diterpenes, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, which exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and hepatoprotective effects. These properties have therapeutic potential for the management of metabolic disorders, cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative conditions and liver dysfunction. Although generally recognized as safe, some studies have reported immunological and reproductive concerns under high-dose or prolonged exposure, underscoring the need for further toxicological and clinical evaluation. In conclusion, this review bridges traditional ethnomedical knowledge with modern pharmacological evidence, providing a foundation for future research and the potential clinical translation of S. rebaudiana in phytotherapy.

Highlights
• This review summarizes the ethnomedical uses of Stevia rebaudiana across multiple traditional medical systems.
• The phytochemistry and biological activities of Stevia are comprehensively categorized and analyzed.
• This work bridges ethnopharmacological heritage and modern therapeutic potential of Stevia rebaudiana.
1 Introduction
Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni (S. rebaudiana for short) is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Asteraceae family, native to the Amambay Mountains of South America, and primarily distributed in Paraguay and Brazil. Its sweetness is approximately 200–300 times that of sucrose, but it contains virtually no calories (). For centuries, indigenous Guaraní people have referred to it as “kaa-hee” (sweet herb), using it to sweeten yerba mate as well as to treat fever, manage diabetes, regulate blood pressure, combat microbial infections, and promote digestion (; Wu et al., 2021). It occupies a significant position in traditional South American medicine.
With the advancement of global trade and cultural exchanges, the unique sweetening properties and pharmacological potential of S. rebaudiana have garnered worldwide attention. The plant has been introduced into numerous countries and has gradually been integrated into various traditional ethnomedical systems, evolving into a widely used ethnobotanical resource. In the 1970s, S. rebaudiana was introduced to China, and commercial cultivation began in the 1980s. Since then, China has become the world’s largest producer and exporter of S. rebaudiana leaves and extracts ().
In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), S. rebaudiana, also known as “sweet tea” is classified as entering the lung and stomach meridians, with functions of generating body fluids to quench thirst, promoting diuresis, and lowering blood pressure (Wang, 2000). Additionally, the need to improve the palatability of bitter herbal decoctions has led to the increased incorporation of S. rebaudiana in TCM. These factors have driven further investigation into the historical development and medicinal potential of S. rebaudiana, extending beyond its sweet taste to ensure its safe and effective integration into modern herbal medicine.
In recent years, extensive research has revealed that S. rebaudiana is not only a natural sweetener, but also a rich source of bioactive metabolites. To date, more than 153 active constituents have been isolated and identified from leaf extracts, including steviol glycosides, flavonoids, phenolic acids, diterpenoids, phenylethanoid glycosides, amino acids, fatty acids, glycerides, and oligosaccharides (Wölwer-Rieck, 2012; ; ; Samuel et al., 2018; ; ; ). The bioactive metabolites in S. rebaudiana contribute not only to its sweetness but also to a range of therapeutic effects, including antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, neuroprotective, and immunomodulatory activities (). These properties highlight its potential for managing various health conditions, including chronic diseases and inflammatory disorders, and offer protective benefits for cardiovascular, hepatic, and renal functions ().
Despite the growing body of research, the connection between the ethnobotanical properties, traditional uses, and modern pharmacological studies of S. rebaudiana has not been comprehensively reviewed, and its application varies significantly across different cultures and medical systems (). To date, no comprehensive review has elucidated its cross-cultural- therapeutic practices, bioactive mechanisms, and safety considerations.
Therefore, this review aims to comprehensively summarize the ethnobotanical background and traditional usage experience of S. rebaudiana across various traditional medical systems, explore its pharmacological activity and mechanisms of action, and critically analyze its safety. Understanding the historical context of Stevia not only enriches its cultural significance but also provides a foundation for its integration into modern healthcare solutions.
2 Methodology
2.1 Literature search strategy
A comprehensive literature search was conducted to collect relevant information on the ethnopharmacology, geographical distribution, traditional medicine, bioactivity, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology of Stevia. This process involved reviewing a wide range of sources, including articles, book chapters, books, and encyclopedias written in English and supported by scientific research projects and funds, within the time span from the inception of various databases to March 2025.
2.2 Databases searched
The literature search was conducted in several major scientific electronic databases to ensure comprehensive coverage of the subject. Relevant articles, book excerpts, books, and encyclopedias were extensively searched in Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, Elsevier, Google Scholar, and CNKI, within the time frame from their inception to March 2025. Each database was searched using combinations of the identified keywords, and the results were reviewed to identify studies and materials that were consistent with the research objectives.
2.3 Inclusion criteria
The following criteria were set to select premium literature: publications written in English, studies supported by scientific evidence, research aligning with the focus on ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology, with a preference given to up-to-date studies, though some earlier works were also included when deemed to be groundbreaking in this respect.
2.4 Data extraction
Key data were extracted from the selected literature, focusing on the following: Ethnopharmacology (traditional medicinal uses of plant taxa), Geographical distribution (regions where the plant is native or commonly found), phytochemistry (identification and analysis of chemical metabolites focusing on the following scopes: ethnopharmacology (traditional medicinal uses of plant taxa), its geographical distributions (regions where the plant is native or commonly found), phytochemistry (identification and analysis of its chemical metabolites found in plant species), pharmacological effects (recorded therapeutic benefits and bioactivity), and toxicological properties (information on its safety, side effects, and toxicological studies).
2.5 Structural identification of phytochemicals
ChemDraw® was used to display the chemical structures of the metabolites identified in the phytochemical analyses of S. rebaudiana. This allows for clear visualization of its molecular structures and ensures an accurate representation of its phytochemical data.2.6 Data Analysis and Synthesis.
After extraction, the data were organized and synthesized to gain a clear understanding of the plant’s ethnopharmacological relevance and its chemical composition. A comparative analysis was also conducted to correlate the phytochemical findings with pharmacological and toxicological results, taking a comprehensive approach to understand the medicinal value of S. rebaudiana.
3 Ethnobotanical background of Stevia Cav.
Stevia Cav. (family: Asteraceae, subfamily: Eupatoriae) is native to South America, with its distribution primarily in Paraguay, Brazil, and Argentina (Wu et al., 2021). The plant thrives in warm, humid, and subtropical climates and is commonly found in well-drained mountainous regions or moist grasslands (). Its natural distribution extends from the southwestern United States to northern Argentina, encompassing Mexico, the Andes, and the Brazilian Highlands ().
To date, the Stevia genus comprises 269 recognized species (https://powo.science.kew.org/, last accessed on 4 March 2025). Based on taxonomic studies, the Stevia species in North and Central America are grouped into three clades: podocephalae, corymbosae, and fruticosae, while the South American species are classified into the breviaristatae and multiaristatae groups (). Among them, S. rebaudiana and 14 other species are believed to have originated in Paraguay, which is also home to an additional 17 related species (). Table 1 summarizes the botanical classification and morphological characteristics of S. rebaudiana.
TABLE 1
| Category | Taxonomic level | Classification |
|---|---|---|
| Botanical taxonomy | Kingdom | Plantae |
| Subkingdom | Tracheobionta | |
| Superdivision | Sprematophyta | |
| Division | Magnoliophyta | |
| Class | Magnoliopside | |
| Subclass | Asteridae | |
| Cohort | Monochlamydae | |
| Order | Asterales | |
| Family | Asteraceae (formerly Compositae) | |
| Subfamily | Asteroideae | |
| Tribe | Eupatorieae | |
| Genus | Stevia | |
| Species | rebaudiana | |
| Morphological Traits | Leaf | Petiole: Present or absent; Shape: Linear, oblong, elliptical, ovate, rhomboid; Margin: Entire, subentire, rounded-toothed, serrated, dentate; Glands: Glandular hairs present |
| Flower | Pedicel: Short-pedicellate or sessile; Corolla: Funnel-shaped; Involucre: Cylindrical; Number: 5 to 6 florets per capitulum; Color: White, pink, or purple |
Botanical taxonomy and morphological characteristics of S. rebaudiana.
Morphologically, S. rebaudiana features an erect or semi-prostrate growth habit, reaching a height of approximately 50–120 cm. It has upright stems and variable leaf shapes, which are typically lanceolate, elliptical, or serrated. The smooth and waxy leaf surfaces help reduce water loss and enable the plant to adapt to arid environments (Soejarto et al., 1982). Its inflorescences are small capitula bearing white or pale purple flowers, which are pollinated by both wind and insects. Following pollination, the plant produces small achenes equipped with feathery pappus structures, which are helpful for seed dispersal. These adaptive traits have facilitated the successful cultivation of this species in diverse ecological environments across the globe ().
In several indigenous communities in Paraguay and Brazil, Stevia species—particularly S. rebaudiana—are well-known for their leaves, which contain high concentrations of steviol glycosides, the metabolite responsible for the intense sweetness of the plant (). Taxonomically, S. rebaudiana has been referred to as Eupatorium rebaudianum Bertoni and Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni Hemsl.
Owing to its unique sweetening properties and medicinal potential, S. rebaudiana has been introduced and cultivated in numerous countries across Asia and Europe, including China, Thailand, Bangladesh, India, Java, New South Wales, Sri Lanka, Switzerland, the Caucasus, and the western Himalayas (https://powo.science.kew.org/, last accessed on 4 March 2025). In recent years, China has become one of the leading cultivators of S. rebaudiana, with significant production regions including Beijing, Hebei, Shaanxi, Jiangsu, Fujian, Hunan, and Yunnan (Wang, 2000).
From an ethnobotanical perspective, the global spread of S. rebaudiana reflects not only the diverse ways in which varying cultures utilize the plant but also the intersection of traditional medicine and modern health demands. As a culturally significant medicinal plant with cross-cultural value, the diverse perceptions and uses of S. rebaudiana across nations offer a rich ethnobotanical context for understanding its global development and integration into both traditional and modern healthcare systems. The botanical taxonomy and morphological characteristics of S. rebaudiana are presented in Table 1, while representative morphological features are illustrated in Figures 1–4 (images adapted from Plants of the World Online, POWO: https://powo.science.kew.org/, accessed 4 March 2025).
FIGURE 1
FIGURE 2
FIGURE 3
FIGURE 4
4 Ethnomedical applications and development potential of stevia species
Since ancient times, plants have been widely utilized for the treatment of various ailments and are regarded as natural and effective sources of medicine (). Among the species within the Stevia genus, S. rebaudiana stands out as the only one that has been extensively employed in ethnomedicine ().
In traditional medical systems, the leaves of S. rebaudiana are considered the most therapeutically valuable part of the plant. They are commonly used in the form of decoctions, infusions, crude extracts, and polyherbal formulations (as outlined in Table 2), particularly for regulating blood glucose, reducing blood pressure, exhibiting anti-inflammatory effects, promoting diuresis, and providing digestive support. Modern pharmacological studies have partially validated these traditional uses, further justifying their potential as globally relevant medicinal resources (; ).
TABLE 2
| Common name(s) | Region | Uses Part(s) | Preparation method | Traditional uses | Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ka’a He’e, Hierba dulce, del Paraguay, estevia, stevia | Paraguay | Leaves | Decoction | Natural sweetener; treatment of stomachache and heartburn; management of hypertension and diabetes; preventive therapy; consumed as a general tonic; added to yerba mate; mild neurostimulant; hepatoprotective; contraceptive; diuretic | (; Small et al., 2001; ; ; ; ) |
| Alcohol maceration | Orally administered in small doses to stabilize palpitations; enhance cardiac and circulatory functions; regulate blood pressure | ||||
| Topical application | Treatment of minor skin abrasions, burns, and skin infections | (Small et al., 2001; ) | |||
| Leaves and stems | -- | Antidiabetic; antihypertensive, anticancer; anticariogenic; anti-inflammatory; antimicrobial effects | |||
| Esteviah, Caá-ehé Hierba dulce, del Paraguay, stevia | Brazil | Leaves | Traditionally consumed in combination with yerba mate to enhance vitality and improve digestion | Used to relieve fatigue; as a tonic; for anticariogenic; antidepressant; antidiabetic, anti-fatigue; cardiotonic; antihypertensive; anti-infective; anti-obesity, diuretic; wound-healing purposes; anticancer; anti-inflammatory; antimicrobial effects; as a contraceptive; reduce cravings for sweet foods; as a natural sweetener | (Taylor, 2005; ; ; ) |
| Oral administration | Treatment of leishmaniasis and Chagas disease; trypanocidal activity | (; ) | |||
| Leaf extract infusion | Used as an antiinfective agent with antifungal and anti-yeast activities | ||||
| Honey leaf, or sweet-leaf | Argentina | Leaves | Oral administration | Lowering blood glucose, cholesterol, and lipid levels; managing dyslipidemia and atherosclerosis; as diuretic, cardiotonic, and antihypertensive agent; relieving cough and heartburn; antacid, appetite stimulant, digestive aid, antidiarrheal, and mild laxative; weight management; promoting wound healing, moisturizing skin, and preventing dermatitis and aging; anticariogenic, contraceptive, antibacterial, antiviral, antiparasitic; immune enhancement and preventive healthcare | (; ; ; ) |
| Madhu Patrika or “Mou Tulsi” or “Cheeni Tulsi” | India | Leaves | Chewed directly or prepared as a saline mouthwash | Used for oral hygiene and prevention of dental caries; regular chewing of the leaves to help manage diabetes | (; ) |
| Making tea | Used as a substitute for sugar-sweetened beverages to reduce caloric intake and manage obesity; prepared as a cooling herbal tea; used for the treatment of gastrointestinal discomfort | ||||
| Decoction | Used to regulate blood pressure and enhance cardiac and circulatory function; for the treatment of diabetes and tuberculosis; Exhibiting non-carcinogenic; antioxidant, anti-inflammatory; antimicrobial; antidiarrheal; diuretic; immunomodulatory activities | (; ; ; ; Sharma and Alam, 2024) | |||
| Topical application | Promoting wound healing | ||||
| -- | Columbia | Leaves | Taken on an empty stomach | Anthelmintic | (; ) |
| -- | America | Leaves | Ethanol extract (oral) | Used for weight loss and lipid-lowering; as a natural sweetener; as a hypoglycemic, antihypertensive, and vasodilatory agent; for treating infections, including Candida albicans infections; as a taste-enhancing agent | |
| Sutebia | Japan | Leaves | Oral administration | Used as a substitute for saccharin and widely applied in tea beverages; pickled foods; seafood products; confectionery | (; Samuel et al., 2018) |
| Stems | Stem extracts exhibiting spasmolytic activity; exerting their effects via the calcium channel blocking mechanism | Shiozaki et al. (2006) | |||
| Candyleaf | China | Leaves | Oral administration | Sweet and cooling in nature; traditionally used to moisten dryness; generate fluids; relieve thirst; acting as an adjuvant in managing Xiaoke syndrome (diabetes); hypertension; hyperuricemia; used in epilepsy management; improving taste of bitter herbal prescriptions to enhance compliance in pediatric patients | (Wang, 2000; ; ; Waris et al., 2024) |
| -- | Russia | Leaves | Oral | As sweetener in food and beverages | Samuel et al. (2018) |
| Seuteibia | South Korea | Leaves | Extracts used in functional foods and cosmetic | Used as a natural ingredient in health foods and skincare products; believed to aid in lipid lowering; strengthen the intestinal mucus layer; reduce inflammation associated with pathogens | (; ; ) |
| หญ้าหวาน(Yaa Waan) | Thailand | Leaves | Oral | Commonly used in traditional herbal teas to regulate metabolic balance | Tipduangta et al. (2019) |
| Extracts in skincare | Applied in the management of diabetes and obesity; extracts also used in skincare for antioxidant; anti-aging; anti-inflammatory; whitening effects | ||||
| -- | Indonesia | Leaves | Oral (tea with roselle flowers) | Used as a natural sweetener; herbal tea metabolite to lower blood glucose levels and manage diabetes | (; ) |
| Daun Manish or Gula Daun | Malaysia | Leaves | Oral | Natural sweetener | Samuel et al. (2018) |
| -- | Bangladesh | Leaves | Oral (chewed raw or juiced with lime) | Used to reduce blood glucose levels | |
| -- | Australia | Leaves | Oral | Natural sweetener | Samuel et al. (2018) |
| -- | New Zealand | Leaves | Oral | Natural sweetener | Samuel et al. (2018) |
| -- | Mexico | Leaves | For skin bumps | ||
| -- | Ukraine | Leaves | Oral | Used to lower blood glucose levels | |
| -- | Poland | Leaves | Oral | Used to support heart health | |
| Folium Steviae | Vietnam | Leaves | Oral | Used to support heart health |
Traditional uses of S. rebaudiana.
4.1 Applications of S. rebaudiana in global traditional medical systems
4.1.1 Systematic use in South America, the region of origin
South America, notably Paraguay, Brazil, and Argentina, is the native region of S. rebaudiana and represents the area with the richest ethnomedical knowledge related to this species. Its therapeutic applications encompass metabolic disorders, cardiovascular diseases, gastrointestinal ailments, infectious diseases, neuroprotection and interventions for reproductive system-related conditions (; Small et al., 2001; ).
In Guaraní traditional medicine, S. rebaudiana is referred to as “kaa-hee” (sweet herb). Its uses include blood glucose regulation, fatigue relief, digestive promotion, and antimicrobial defense (). It is also commonly consumed with the local herbal infusion, yerba mate, to purify the blood and promote general wellbeing (). These culturally embedded applications suggest that S. rebaudiana functions not only as a therapeutic agent but also as a preventive supplement in daily life.
Built upon long-term experiential accumulation and traditional knowledge transmission, this plant is regarded as having broad therapeutic potential, including glycemic control (), cardiovascular support (), hepatoprotective, diuretic effects, neuroprotection, anti-cariogenic, antimicrobial activities (; ), antiparasitic action, antitussive effects (Taylor, 2005), and even potential contraceptive ().
Notably, its role in reducing sugar cravings has been highlighted as an important dietary intervention for metabolic syndrome and weight management (Small et al., 2001). In Argentina, decoctions of S. rebaudiana leaves are also used in folk medicine to lower cholesterol levels, regulate blood lipids, reduce blood pressure and enhance cardiac function (; ; ; ).
In local practice, the applications of S. rebaudiana are diverse, encompassing both internal and topical forms. It is commonly believed that soaking the leaves in alcohol to prepare traditional medicinal tinctures enhances cardiovascular function (). For external use, crushed fresh leaves are directly applied to the skin for treating minor wounds, burns, and infections (Small et al., 2001; ). Pharmacological experiments have further demonstrated that its injectable extracts possess significant antifungal and anti-yeast activity (), indicating its potential value in treating infectious diseases.
Notably, against the historical backdrop of infectious disease prevalence, many South American countries are currently undergoing an epidemiological transition from acute communicable to chronic noncommunicable diseases, including type 2 diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular diseases, depression and oral health burdens (; ). Additionally, certain regions remain affected by parasitic (; ) and fungal infections and reproductive health issues (). In resource-limited areas of South America (), S. rebaudiana, a locally available, low-cost, and culturally accepted herbal resource, has significant practical value in both disease prevention and adjunctive therapy. Its extensive traditional applications provide a pragmatic foundation for primary public health interventions and offer critical support for future pharmacological research and clinical translation of its effects.
4.1.2 Traditional use in North America
In North America, S. rebaudiana is primarily utilized as a natural sweetener in foods and beverages. It is widely regarded as beneficial for weight management, regulation of blood glucose and blood pressure levels, and promotion of gut health (Samuel et al., 2018). In the United States, S. rebaudiana leaves are also incorporated into certain folk herbal practices to enhance immune function and treat mild infections (). These applications are closely aligned with the rising burden of metabolic diseases currently observed in North America, particularly in the United States.
Additionally, in Mexico, S. rebaudiana leaves have been traditionally used to treat skin lumps and mild dermatological conditions (). Given that some rural populations in this region have relatively limited access to healthcare services, leveraging indigenous plant resources for primary health interventions holds considerable practical significance ().
Therefore, the traditional uses of S. rebaudiana in North America not only illustrate its cultural heritage but also signify its potential applications in regional public health services, warranting further in-depth research and clinical transformation within the framework of modern medicine.
4.1.3 Functional expansion in asian medical systems
In Asia, S. rebaudiana has been increasingly integrated into various traditional medical systems, underscoring its high relevance in addressing region-specific public health challenges. This trend highlights the practical value and broad applicability of S. rebaudiana in addressing the increasing burden of chronic diseases.
In India, the prevalence of type 2 diabetes and hypertension ranks among the highest globally, and cardiovascular diseases () and oral health issues are also of significant concern (). Consequently, within the Ayurvedic medical system, S. rebaudiana is widely employed for oral hygiene management (; ). Decoctions of its leaves are also used to regulate blood pressure, improve cardiovascular function and control body weight. Particularly, stevia is recommended for patients with diabetes as a natural, low-calorie sweetener to replace refined sugars, thereby reducing sugar intake and improving metabolic health (; ; ; ; Sharma and Alam, 2024). In addition, herbal pastes prepared from fresh or dried leaves are commonly used to promote wound healing and tissue repair (), demonstrating auxiliary efficacy in traditional caregiving practices.
In Thailand and other Southeast Asian countries, despite the gradual enhancement of modern healthcare systems, traditional healers continue to play a vital role in community-based primary health services (). As a commonly used local herb, S. rebaudiana has long been incorporated into traditional prescriptions for modulating metabolic functions and assisting in glycemic and weight control (Tipduangta et al., 2019; Wanyo et al., 2024). In recent years, its extracts have been widely used in functional skin care products. Studies have demonstrated their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, skin-brightening, and anti-aging effects (). These applications align closely with regional trends in metabolic disorders (; ) and chronic skin inflammation (; ) in Southeast Asia.
In TCM, S. rebaudiana is classified as sweet and neutral in nature, with traditional functions of clearing heat, generating fluids, moistening dryness, tonifying the stomach and liver, and lowering blood sugar and pressure (Wang, 2000; ; ; Waris et al., 2024). Clinically, it can be consumed alone as tea or as a decoction or used in combination with other herbs to treat hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, gastrointestinal discomfort, and cough, with particularly notable efficacy in managing hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia, meeting the therapeutic needs of patients with comorbid metabolic syndrome (“three highs”) (Zhang et al., 2020). In pediatric applications, stevia is frequently used to mask the bitterness of traditional Chinese decoctions, thereby improving adherence to treatment and serving as a practical adjunct in the management of respiratory diseases ().
In Korea and Japan, where lifestyle-related diseases and chronic inflammation are on the rise, increasing attention has been paid to the role of S. rebaudiana in lipid regulation, maintenance of intestinal barrier integrity, and suppression of pathogen-associated inflammation. Relevant studies have indicated that stevia may help prevent obesity-induced dysbiosis and metabolic inflammation (; ; ). Notably, its leaf extracts have already been widely incorporated into functional foods and cosmetic products in both countries (; Samuel et al., 2018).
In resource-limited countries such as Indonesia, Bangladesh, and Malaysia, S. rebaudiana is utilized as a culturally accepted and cost-effective natural intervention for dietary management in diabetic populations (; ). Its broad accessibility and favorable safety profile make it a valuable auxiliary tool in community-level strategies for the prevention of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs).
The diverse applications of S. rebaudiana across the traditional medical systems in Asia are grounded in their rich cultural heritage and reflect their wisdom in combating chronic metabolic and cardiovascular conditions. These traditional practices provide a solid foundation for mechanistic studies and translational medicine, underscoring the practical significance and developmental potential of Stevia in the field of public health.
4.1.4 Applications in oceania
In Oceania, S. rebaudiana is primarily used as a natural sweetener and food additive, with its application in functional foods and health beverages has expanded significantly. Beyond its sweetening properties, S. rebaudiana is increasingly recognized as a complementary herbal therapy with the potential to regulate blood glucose levels and promote digestive health (Samuel et al., 2018). These applications are particularly important in regions where obesity, metabolic syndrome, and diet-related chronic diseases are increasing.
4.1.5 Other applications
Although the integration of S. rebaudiana into traditional medical systems in Europe and Africa is less extensive than that in South America or Asia, its applications, particularly in blood glucose regulation, antioxidant activity, and digestive support, are similar to those in the Americas. In certain African regions, its incorporation into traditional therapies reflects a broader trend of integrating globally recognized medicinal plants into local healthcare systems under resource constraints. Overall, the widespread ethnopharmacological applications of S. rebaudiana across continents (see Table 2 for details) highlight its functional diversity and cross-cultural therapeutic value. These patterns underscore the increasing importance of the role of the environment in global public health efforts.
4.2 Development potential of other stevia species
In addition to S. rebaudiana, other species of the Stevia genus also possess various ethnomedicinal values, which are summarized in Table 3. Five other Stevia species with notable sweetness have been identified, although they are generally less intense than S. rebaudiana, including Stevia lemmonii var. hispidula, Stevia micradenia, Stevia oligocephala, Stevia perfoliata, and Stevia phlebophylla (Soejarto et al., 1982). These species also feature certain medicinal properties. The sweetness profiles of these species may be enhanced through the application of modern biotechnological tools, such as hybrid breeding and gene editing, to improve their development and commercial utilization, thereby reducing the overreliance on S. rebaudiana.
TABLE 3
| Species | Common name(s) | Region | Uses Part(s) | Preparation method | Traditional uses | Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| S. bogotensis Tr. ex Cortés | Jarilla,Clavito,eupatoria | Columbia | Leaves | -- | Antipyretic; diaphoretic agent | |
| S. eupatoria (Spreng.) wild | -- | China | Leaves | -- | Analgesic; anti-inflammatory; antihypertensive agent | |
| S. cardiatica Perkins | -- | Bolivia | Leaves | -- | Used to treat heart disease | |
| Stevia yalae Cabrera | -- | Argentina | Leaves | -- | Ornamental plant | |
| Stevia achalensis | Comadre | Argentina | Leaves | -- | Ornamental plant | |
| S. collina Gardn. | Caá-ehé | Brazil | Leaves | -- | Sweetener, as stomachic | |
| Stevia connata Lag. | Pericón de monte | Guatemala | Leaves | -- | Used to treat stomachache | |
| S. elatior HBK. | A-cí | Mexico | Leaves | -- | Used to soothe burns and abrasions | |
| Stevia eupatoria (Spreng.) Wild | Hierba del borrego, yerba del borrego, cola del borrego, estevia | Cuba | Leaves | -- | Diuretic; antimalarial; used for gastric pain; hypoglycemic; analgesic, anti-inflammatory; antihypertensive agent | |
| Stevia glandulosa Hook. et Arn. | Hierba de la pulga | Mexico | Roots and leaves | -- | Antipyretic | |
| S. linoides Sch. Bip. | -- | -- | Leaves | -- | Astringent | |
| Stevia puberula Hook. | Lima-lima | Peru | Leaves | -- | Used as a tea substitute and stomachic | (; ) |
| Stevia rhombifolia HKB var. stepphanocoma Sch. Bip. | Manka pak’I, pirq’a | Peru | Leaves | -- | Used to treat stomachache; as an emetic; as an additive to yerba mate | |
| Stevia salicifolia Cav. | Hierba del aire, hierba de la mula, la envidia, zazale de olor, yerba de la mula, Hierba de la Santa Rita | Mexico, United States | Leaves | -- | Used for the treatment of rheumatism; as a laxative; for relieving intestinal discomfort caused by parasites; for the treatment of fever and colds | |
| Stevia linoides Sch. Bip. | -- | -- | Leaves | -- | Astringent | |
| Stevia lucida Lag. | Yerba del aire, hierba de la araña, ma-li-too, kebuj, mariposa, chirca, chilca, javillo, golondrina de la sabanera | Mexico, Guatemala, Colombia, Venezuela | Leaves | -- | Used for wound treatment; pain relief; rheumatism management; and as an anti-inflammatory agent | |
| S. macbridei B. L. Robins var. anomala B. L. Robins | Jauja-huancayo | Peru | Leaves | Topical application | Used by women for bathing purposes | |
| S. petiolata (Cass) Sch. Bip | Guarme-guarmi | Peru | Leaf extract preparation | Flavoring | To give flavor to meat | |
| S. puberula Hook. | Lima-lima | Peru | Leaves | -- | Used as tea substitute and stomach medicine | |
| S. pilosa Lag. | Florde María | Mexico | Leaves | -- | Antimalarial; antipyretic; laxative; diuretic | |
| Stevia nepetifolia HBK | Zazal, anis de ratón, peracón | Mexico, Guatemala | Leaves | -- | Used for the treatment of dysmenorrhea | |
| S. palmeri Gray | Raniweri, raniwori | Mexico | Leaves | -- | As an odoriferous herb; used to improve digestion; relieve anxiety; promote blood circulation; enhance flavor; repel insects, acting as a natural preservative; purifying the air | (; ) |
| Stevia plummerae Gray | Ronino | Mexico | Leaves | -- | To make washes and poultices for open wounds | |
| Stevia serrata Cav. | Ronino, Uriki, Otoninawa, Chapo, yerba picante, hipericón, Q’ang’aj, anis silvestre, hipericon arrie | Guatemala, Mexico | Leaves | -- | Used for cleansing and dressing open wounds; applied to foot cuts and snake bites; used as a remedy for coughs; for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders | |
| Stevia subpubescens Lag. | Hierba de la mula, Zazal | Mexico | Leaves | -- | Used for postpartum bathing; treatment of stomachache; relief of joint pain | |
| Stevia trifida Lag. | Manzanilla de agua | Mexico | Leaves | -- | Used for the treatment of dysentery | |
| S. serrata | -- | Mexico | Roots | Decoction | Used to treat diabetes | |
| Wash and poultice | Applied to open wounds for healing purposes | |||||
| Flavoring | An ingredient used to sweeten the traditional fermented beverage “tesgüino” | |||||
| Roots, leaves, and flowers | Soaked and consumed together with tabardillo | Used for the treatment of digestive disorders; such as indigestion or slow digestion; intestinal infections; gastric discomfort or pain; diarrhea | http://www.medicinatradicionalmexicana.unam.mx/apmtm/termino.php?l=3&t=stevia-serrata (accessed on 03.04 2025) | |||
| Leaves and roots | Essential oil | Antinociceptive activity |
Traditional uses of other Stevia species.
5 Phytochemical metabolites and bioactivities of S. rebaudiana
In the herbal market, the primary medicinal part of S. rebaudiana is the leaves. To date, researchers have isolated and identified various bioactive constituents from its leaves, which can be broadly categorized into diterpenoids, flavonoids, polyphenols, phenylethanoid glycosides, amino acids, fatty acids, glycerolipids, and polysaccharides (Wölwer-Rieck, 2012; ; ; Samuel et al., 2018; ; ; ). These phytochemicals are responsible for a wide range of pharmacological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, hypoglycemic, antihypertensive, cardioprotective, and antiparasitic effects (). The following sections outline the major chemical constituents of S. rebaudiana and their associated biological activities, according to their chemical classifications. Figure 5 shows the representative chemical structures of key diterpenoids, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds isolated from S. rebaudiana.
FIGURE 5
5.1 Diterpenoids and derivatives
The leaves of S. rebaudiana are rich in diterpenoid glycosides, including stevioside, rebaudioside, steviolbioside, dihydroisosteviol, rubusoside, and dulcoside. Among these glycosides, stevioside and rebaudioside are the principal active constituents.
Rebaudioside has demonstrated antidiabetic activity by stimulating insulin secretion and exerting antihypertensive effects through the calcium channel-blocking mechanism (Ruiz-Ruiz et al., 2017). In addition, it can inhibit the release of pro-inflammatory factors, interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), through the nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) signaling pathway to improve chronic inflammation (Ruiz-Ruiz et al., 2017).
Stevioside reduces blood glucose levels through multiple mechanisms, including activation of the Adenosine Monophosphate-Activated Protein Kinase (AMPK) and PI3K/Akt signaling pathways, regulation of hepatic glycogen metabolism, inhibition of α-glucosidase, and modulation of glucose transporter type 4(GLUT4) translocation (; ).
In addition, stevioside suppresses inflammation by downregulating the IκBα/NF-κB, MAPK, and TLR4-mediated immune signaling pathways, reducing the release of IL-6, TNF-α, interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), and nitric oxide (NO) (; ), and regulating the Bax/Bcl-2/Caspase-3 signaling cascade to inhibit apoptosis, particularly in osteoarthritis and inflammation-related cartilage damage ().
Stevioside enhances mitochondrial bioenergy metabolism by inducing PGC-1α expression, promoting fatty acid oxidation, reducing fat accumulation, and improving insulin sensitivity, thereby contributing to metabolic homeostasis (). It also facilitates bile acid excretion and inhibits HMG-CoA reductase activity, thereby reducing cholesterol synthesis, lowering serum lipid levels, decreasing hepatic lipid deposition, and reducing cardiovascular risks ().
Steviol glycosides, including stevioside and rebaudioside, have also shown significant antihypertensive effects through multiple mechanisms, including calcium channel antagonism, inhibition of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) activity, promotion of natriuresis, and modulation of the sympathetic nervous system (; Wang and Wu, 2019; ; ).
Other diterpenoid glycosides, such as steviolbioside, dihydroisosteviol, rubusoside, and dulcoside, have also demonstrated potential bioactivities in glycemic regulation, anti-inflammatory effects, and hepatoprotection (Ruiz-Ruiz et al., 2017).
Moreover, derivatives such as STVNa have been shown to attenuate high-fat diet–induced renal injury through antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic mechanisms, offering therapeutic potential for obesity-related chronic kidney disease (). Metabolites such as steviophethanoside and 6-O-acetyl-(12R)-epiblumdane have been reported to enhance insulin secretion and improve glucose metabolism (; ; ).
5.2 Phenolic metabolites and derivatives
Phenolic metabolites have attracted considerable attention because of their multiple biological functions, including free radical scavenging, metal chelation, and regulation of signaling pathways and enzymatic activities (Simoni et al., 2024). To date, more than 30 phenolic constituents have been identified in the leaves of S. rebaudiana, primarily including phenolic acids, flavonoids, and other polyphenol derivatives (). These polyphenols are broadly involved in various physiological processes and exert pharmacological effects, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative, and pro-apoptotic activities, through the modulation of signaling pathways, including PI3K/Akt, MAPK, CDK4/Cyclin D1, and p53. Their favorable bioactivities have been validated in multiple disease models, particularly demonstrating significant potential in chronic inflammation and metabolic disorders (; ; Zipinotti Dos Santos et al., 2023; ; Simoni et al., 2024; Zhu et al., 2024).
5.2.1 Phenolic acids
S. rebaudiana is rich in various phenolic acids, including chlorogenic, caffeic, trans-ferulic, p-coumaric acid, and rhamnose acids, and their glycosidic derivatives (). Studies have shown that polyphenol extracts obtained from the leaves are dominated by chlorogenic acid and its isomers, indicating that phenolic acids are the major constituents of these extracts ().
Due to high water solubility, these metabolites exhibit significant antioxidant and antimicrobial activities in aqueous extracts (; ). Their minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) ranged from 1.67 to 3.33 mg/mL for bacteria and from 6.67 to 13.3 mg/mL for fungi. In addition, they demonstrated inhibitory effects on several digestive enzymes, comparable to those of EGCG (). Furthermore, phenolic acids can alleviate oxidative stress by activating the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway and enhancing the activities of antioxidant enzymes such as SOD, CAT, and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) (). Their antimicrobial mechanisms primarily involve the disruption of cell membrane integrity, interference with DNA synthesis, and inhibition of biofilm formation (). These metabolites also exhibit potent antiproliferative and pro-apoptotic effects against various tumor cell lines (; ; Zipinotti Dos Santos et al., 2023).
Processing methods significantly affect phenolic acid stability. Compared to fresh leaves, different drying treatments markedly increased the levels of caffeic acid and trans-ferulic acid (p < 0.05) (). Although steviol glycosides are the principal bioactive metabolites in S. rebaudiana, phenolic acids are also regarded as auxiliary health-promoting metabolites, potentially enhancing the overall functional value of S. rebaudiana as a nutraceutical (Wanyo et al., 2024).
5.2.2 Flavonoids
Multiple flavonoid metabolites have been identified in the leaves of S. rebaudiana, primarily including flavonols (e.g., quercetin and kaempferol), flavones (e.g., rutin and luteolin), and their glycosidic derivatives (Wölwer-Rieck, 2012; ). These metabolites are widely present in samples across different varieties with different extraction methods and form an important basis for their bioactivities. Notably, rutin is prone to degradation during the drying process (). Quantitative analyses indicate that the total flavonoid content in S. rebaudiana infusions and ethanolic extracts are 71.79 ± 0.00 and 56.66 ± 0.92 mg QE/g, respectively, suggesting that flavonoids are one of its major phenolic constituents ().
Flavonoids feature excellent antioxidant properties and capable of scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS) and free radicals possibly by inhibiting ROS-generating enzymes, chelating metal ions, and donating hydrogen atoms. Their regulatory effects on metabolism, inflammation, and immune responses are primarily mediated through signaling pathways, such as sirtuin 1 (Sirt1)/AMPK and PI3K/Akt/mTOR, contributing to their potential in the intervention of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases (Yao et al., 2024). Their antiviral mechanisms include inhibition of viral entry, suppression of viral replication, and enhancement of host immune responses ().
In terms of functional specificity, quercetin mitigates fibrosis progression in diabetic nephropathy and chronic kidney disease by inhibiting the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway (), whereas kaempferol regulates bile acid metabolism, promotes cholesterol efflux, and suppresses foam cell formation, thereby alleviating conditions such as NAFLD, NASH, and hypercholesterolemia (Yao et al., 2024). Luteolin demonstrates multi-target therapeutic potential in models of rheumatoid arthritis, hepatic fibrosis, and asthma (Zhu et al., 2024). Apigenin exhibits anxiolytic and antidepressant activities by modulating GABA receptor activity (Singh A. et al., 2024).
5.2.3 Other polyphenols
In addition to phenolic acids and flavonoids, S. rebaudiana contains other types of polyphenolic metabolites, primarily including tannins and lignins. Tannins are among the common secondary metabolites in plants, and in S. rebaudiana, they are predominantly hydrolyzable tannins with a relatively high content (). These metabolites possess notable antioxidant and antimicrobial properties and may exert synergistic effects in the regulation of the gut microbiota and the delay of lipid oxidation. Furthermore, current research on lignins in S. rebaudiana remains limited, and systematic structural identification and functional validation are lacking; therefore, their associated biological activities require further investigation.
5.3 Amino acids and derivatives
The leaves of S. rebaudiana contain a total of 13 identified amino acids and their derivatives, including glutamate, proline, arginine, serine, lysine, etc. Among them, proline, choline, and serine are present at the highest concentrations and are believed to play essential roles in metabolic regulation and maintenance of cellular functions ().
5.4 Fatty acids and derivatives
S. rebaudiana leaves are rich in fatty acids and their derivatives, including palmitamide, docosenamide (also known as erucamide), N-stearoyl valine, 16 types of glycerolipids (mono-, di-, and triglycerides), and four types of free fatty acids and their derivatives (). These lipid compounds exhibit potential bioactivities, including lipid metabolism regulation, immune modulation, cardiovascular health maintenance, and oxidative stress balance.
For instance, linoleic acid improves lipid profiles by promoting lipid metabolism through Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Gamma (PPARγ) activation, lowering LDL levels, and increasing HDL levels, thereby reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases (Siddique et al., 2016). It can also inhibit pro-inflammatory signaling mediated by TLR4/NF-κB, reducing the expression of TNF-α, IL-6, and COX-2 to alleviate chronic inflammation and potentially improve insulin resistance via the IRS1/PI3K/Akt signaling pathway (Siddique et al., 2016).
6-Octadecenoic acid is believed to modulate macrophage polarization toward the M2 anti-inflammatory phenotype via PPARγ activation. Stearic acid, a key metabolite of cell membranes, contributes to maintaining membrane fluidity and enhancing nervous system stability, whereas palmitic acid is primarily involved in energy metabolism and adipose tissue formation (Siddique et al., 2016).
Additionally, S. rebaudiana leaves are rich in NADPH-dependent superoxide-generating lipoproteins (suprol), which may reduce inflammation and vascular injury by activating NADPH oxidase (Nox), inhibiting TLR4/NF-κB signaling, and modulating eNOS/NO-mediated vasodilation. These actions contribute to blood glucose regulation, immune balance, and atherosclerosis prevention ().
5.5 Oligosaccharides
The leaves of S. rebaudiana contain various oligosaccharides, primarily γ-cyclodextrin, maltose and its phosphate ester derivatives, and trehalose. Among them, γ-cyclodextrin may function as soluble dietary fiber, promoting gut microbiota homeostasis. Additionally, it has demonstrated potential anti-obesity and lipid-lowering activities by regulating lipid metabolism ().
5.6 Volatile oils
The volatile oils of S. rebaudiana leaves are rich in bioactive metabolites, including oxidized steviol, spathulenol, (E)-nerolidol, phytol, and α-cadinol, among others. These metabolites exhibit a wide range of biological activities, including insecticidal, antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, respiratory protection, and neuroprotective effects ().
Furthermore, studies have shown that S. rebaudiana volatile oils can penetrate viral envelopes, interfere with viral adsorption, and inhibit the viral life cycle, demonstrating their potential therapeutic value against viral infections such as HSV-1/HSV-2, HIV, influenza (IFV), and SARS-CoV-2 (Siddique et al., 2016; ). The oils also disrupt bacterial cell membranes and affect biofilm formation, exhibiting broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Salmonella (). Additionally, S. rebaudiana volatile oils demonstrate neurotoxic and repellent properties against pests, such as aphids and whiteflies, by affecting their nervous systems and modulating oxidative stress responses ().
Moreover, ledene oxide-(II), a product of linalool oxidation, may have a neuroprotective effect, making it a potential candidate for treating neurodegenerative diseases. Geranyl vinyl ether may possess sedative and antispasmodic properties, suggesting its potential use in aromatherapy ().
5.7 Phenylethanol derivatives
The leaves of S. rebaudiana contain phenylethanol glycosides (PhGs), particularly the newly discovered steviophethanoside, which has shown potential for promoting insulin secretion, improving glucose metabolism, and potentially lowering blood glucose levels. The underlying mechanisms may involve the stimulation of pancreatic β-cells, regulation of glucagon levels, and modulation of glucose metabolism ().
5.8 Sesquiterpenoids
The sesquiterpenoids in S. rebaudiana include various isomers, such as Sterebin I, J, E, F, M, and N. These metabolites have been detected in both polar and non-polar extracts and may exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities ().
5.9 Other metabolites
Purines and their derivatives in S. rebaudiana may possess antioxidant and neuroprotective properties (). Retinoid derivatives are potentially related to cellular differentiation, antioxidant activity, and vitamin A metabolism (). Alkaloids have been shown to exhibit neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects, although their specific mechanisms require further investigation (Ruiz-Ruiz et al., 2017). Triterpenes and sterols may possess anti-inflammatory and cholesterol-regulating properties (Ruiz-Ruiz et al., 2017).
The diverse phytochemical metabolites found in S. rebaudiana leaves form the basis for its wide range of biological activities and associated health benefits. Table 4 summarizes the major metabolites identified in S. rebaudiana and their respective categories, facilitating the understanding of the composition of S. rebaudiana and providing a foundation for exploring its pharmacological mechanisms of action.
TABLE 4
| NO. | Family | Metabolites | Ref. | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Terpenoids | Diterpenoids | Austroinulin | |
| 2 | Steviol | |||
| 3 | Steviolbioside | |||
| 4 | Rubusoside | |||
| 5 | Steviol + Glucose + 4-Methylglucuronide | |||
| 6 | Dulcoside A | |||
| 7 | Stevioside | |||
| 8 | Steviol + 2 Glucoses4-Methylglucuronide | |||
| 9 | Steviol + 2 Glucoses + 2Xyloses | |||
| 10 | Rebaudioside A | |||
| 11 | Rebaudioside B | |||
| 12 | Rebaudioside C | |||
| 13 | Rebaudioside D | |||
| 14 | Rebaudioside E | |||
| 15 | Rebaudioside G | Wölwer-Rieck (2012) | ||
| 16 | Dulcoside B | |||
| 17 | Rebaudioside L | |||
| 18 | Rebaudioside H | |||
| 19 | Rebaudioside K | |||
| 20 | Rebaudioside J | |||
| 21 | Rebaudioside N | |||
| 22 | Rebaudioside M | |||
| 23 | Rebaudioside O | |||
| 24 | Rebaudioside F | |||
| 25 | Dulcoside A derivative | |||
| 26 | Rebaudioside U | |||
| 27 | Rebaudioside T | |||
| 28 | Rebaudioside S | |||
| 29 | Rebaudioside R | |||
| 30 | Rebaudioside IX | |||
| 31 | Rebaudioside KA | Zhang et al. (2020) | ||
| 32 | 6-O-acetyl-(12R)-epiblumdane | |||
| 33 | Sesquiterpenoids | Sterebin I/J | ||
| 34 | Sterebin E/F/M/N | |||
| 35 | Phenolic metabolites | Flavonoids | Kaempferol monoglycoside | |
| 36 | Kaempferol rhamnoside | |||
| 37 | Flavonoid monoglycoside | |||
| 38 | Quercetin-3-O-arabinoside | |||
| 39 | Quercitrin | |||
| 40 | Flavonoid monoglycoside | |||
| 41 | Flavonoid diglycoside | |||
| 42 | Rutin | |||
| 43 | Flavonoid coumaroylglucosideglucoside | |||
| 44 | Quercetin 3-O (coumaroylglucoside)7-O-glucoside | |||
| 45 | Flavonols | Wölwer-Rieck (2012) | ||
| 46 | Quercetin-3-O-β-D-rhamnoside | |||
| 47 | Quercetin-3-O-glucoside | |||
| 48 | Quercetin-3-O-rutinoside | |||
| 49 | Quercetin-3-O-(4-O-trans-caffeoyl)-α-L-rhamno-pyranosyl-(1−6)-β-D-galactopyranoside | |||
| 50 | Kaempferol-3-O-rhamnoside | |||
| 51 | Apigenin | |||
| 52 | Apigenin-4′-O-β-D-glycoside | |||
| 53 | Apigenin-7-O-β-D-glycoside | |||
| 54 | Luteolin-7-O-β-D-glycoside | |||
| 55 | Quinic and caffeic acid and derivatives | Quinic acid | ||
| 56 | Quinate phosphate | |||
| 57 | 1,5-Dicaffeoilquinic acid | |||
| 58 | Caffeic acid | |||
| 59 | 4-Coumaric acid | |||
| 60 | Cinnamic acid | |||
| 61 | Syringic acid | |||
| 62 | Vanillic acid | |||
| 63 | 4-Methoxybenzoic acid | |||
| 64 | 4-Methylcatechol | |||
| 65 | Gallic acid | |||
| 66 | Pyrogallol | |||
| 67 | 3,4,5-Tricaffeoylquinic acid | |||
| 68 | 1,3,5-Tricaffeoylquinic acid | |||
| 69 | Rutin | |||
| 70 | 3-Feruloyl-5-caffeoylquinc acid | |||
| 71 | 4-Caffeoyl-5-feruloylquinic acid | |||
| 72 | 3,5-Dicaffeoylquinic acid (isochlorogenic acid A) | |||
| 73 | 1,4-Dicaffeoylquinic acid | |||
| 74 | 3,4-Dicaffeoylquinic acid (isochlorogenic acid B) | |||
| 75 | 1,3-Dicaffeoylquinic acid | |||
| 76 | 4,5-Dicaffeoylquinic acid (isochlorogenic acid C) | |||
| 77 | Quercetin-3-O-glucoside | |||
| 78 | Galuteolin | |||
| 79 | Quercitrin | |||
| 80 | Roseoside | |||
| 81 | 3-Feruloylquinic acid | |||
| 82 | 5-Feruloylquinic acid | |||
| 83 | 4-Caffeoylquinic acid (cryptochlorogenic acid) | |||
| 84 | 3-Caffeoylquinic acid (chlorogenic acid) | |||
| 85 | 5-Caffeoylquinic acid (neochlorogenic acid) | |||
| 86 | 5-p-Coumaroylquinic acid | |||
| 87 | 4-Caffeoylshikimic acid | |||
| 88 | 3-Caffeoylshikimic acid | |||
| 89 | 5-Caffeoylshikimic acid | |||
| 90 | Catechin | |||
| 91 | Luteolin | |||
| 92 | Sinapic acid | |||
| 93 | Trans-ferulic acid | |||
| 94 | Caffeoyl-feruloylquinic acid | Wölwer-Rieck (2012) | ||
| 95 | feruloylquinic acid | |||
| 96 | 4-coumaric acid | |||
| 97 | Pyrogallol | |||
| 98 | Phenylethanoid Glycosides | 4-hydroxyphenyl ethyl-8-O-[α- l-arabinopyranosyl-(1→6)]β-d-glucopyranoside (steviophethanoside) | ||
| 99 | Pyrogallol | |||
| 100 | Icariside D | |||
| 101 | Salidroside | |||
| 102 | Cuchiloside | |||
| 103 | Tyrosol | |||
| 104 | Other families | Amino acids and derivatives | Aminobutyric acid | |
| 105 | Serine | |||
| 106 | Proline | |||
| 107 | Pyroglutamic acid | |||
| 108 | Choline | |||
| 109 | Alanine | |||
| 110 | Asparagine | |||
| 111 | Glutamate | |||
| 112 | Leucine/Isoleucine⁄ | |||
| 113 | Lysine | |||
| 114 | Threonine | |||
| 115 | Tryptophan | |||
| 116 | Valine | |||
| 117 | Fatty acid amides and derivatives | Palmitamide | ||
| 118 | Oleamide | |||
| 119 | Estearamide | |||
| 120 | 13-Docosenamide | |||
| 121 | N-stearoyl valine | |||
| 122 | Palmitamide | |||
| 123 | Estearamide | |||
| 124 | 13-Docosenamide | |||
| 125 | N-stearoyl valine | |||
| 126 | Fatty acids and derivatives | Myristic acid | ||
| 127 | Palmitic acid | |||
| 128 | Stearic acid | |||
| 129 | Oleic acid | |||
| 130 | Oleic acid derivative | |||
| 131 | Oleic acid derivative | |||
| 132 | Gondoic acid derivative | |||
| 133 | Glycerolipids | MG (16:1) | ||
| 134 | MG (16:0) | |||
| 135 | MG (18:1) | |||
| 136 | MG (18:0) | |||
| 137 | MG (20:1) | |||
| 138 | MG (22:1) | |||
| 139 | DG (18:1/0:0/20:1) | |||
| 140 | DG (18:0/0:0/18:1) | |||
| 141 | DG (18:1/0:0/16:0) | |||
| 142 | DG (18:1/0:0/18:1) | |||
| 143 | DG (18:1/0:0/20:0) | |||
| 144 | DG (18:2/0:0/20:0) | |||
| 145 | DG (20:0/0:0/20:1) | |||
| 146 | DG (20:1/0:0/20:2) | |||
| 147 | TG (16:1/20:0/20:0) | |||
| 148 | Oligosaccharides | Gamma-cyclodextrin | ||
| 149 | Disaccharide | |||
| 150 | Trehalose | |||
| 151 | Maltose + phosphate | |||
| 152 | Purines | Purine | ||
| 153 | Retinoids | Retinol derivative |
Metabolite composition of S. rebaudiana.
The bioactive metabolites of S. rebaudiana have demonstrated diverse pharmacological properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and metabolic regulatory effects. These activities provide a strong basis for the application of these compounds in the prevention and management of chronic diseases, such as diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular disorders, and support their incorporation into functional foods and nutraceutical products. Additionally, S. rebaudiana has shown significant antimicrobial properties, further expanding its therapeutic potential (Table 5). Moreover, to advance mechanistic studies and clinical translation, it is essential to prioritize representative metabolites based on their abundance and reported bioactivities, thereby identifying the most promising candidates for therapeutic development (Tables 6, 7).
TABLE 5
| Category | Microorganism (Latin) | Extract type | Active results | Antimicrobial index (e.g., MIC/zone) | Mechanism (if known) | Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| bacteria | Escherichia coli O157 | Fermented hot water extract | Exhibited bactericidal activity | Complete killing at 40% (v/v) | Acidic pH-dependent bactericidal effect; suppression of VT1/VT2 toxin production | Ruiz-Ruiz et al. (2017) Tomita et al. (1997) |
| Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli EC127 | Fermented hot water extract | Viable count reduced from 109 to <105 cfu/mL within 2 h at 20% (v/v) | High susceptibility | Acidic pH disturbs extracellular environment and interferes with metabolic activity | ||
| Enteroinvasive Escherichia coli EC174 | Fermented hot water extract | Viable count reduced from ∼109 to <102 cfu/mL within 2 h at 20% (v/v) | High susceptibility at 20%; total kill at 40% (v/v) | Acidic pH damages the cell membrane and leads to cell death | ||
| Escherichia coli | Crude methanolic extract | Exhibited bactericidal activity | Positive control: amoxicillin; negative: <1% DMSO; 69% inhibition rate | -- | (Tomita et al., 1997; Sumit et al., 2008; ; Ruiz-Ruiz et al., 2017; ; Stachurska et al., 2023) | |
| Volatile extract (e.g., petroleum ether) | Exhibited bactericidal activity; complete inhibition at low concentration | MIC as low as 250 µg/mL | -- | |||
| Aqueous extract | Inhibition observed | 7 mm (low activity) | -- | |||
| Ethanol extract (shaking or Soxhlet method) | Moderate to high antibacterial activity observed | Inhibition zone range: 6.53–18.81 mm; max: 18.81 mm | -- | |||
| Escherichia coli DSM 5695 | SRa (25%, acetone) | Initial inhibition followed by rebound | MIC: 25%; toxic | Concentration-dependent toxicity; weakened under dynamic conditions | Stachurska et al. (2023) | |
| SRm (25%, Methanol) | Enhanced lysis followed by rebound | MIC: 25%; detoxified but activated | Promotes lysis; growth stimulation under dynamic conditions | |||
| Escherichia coli DSM 613 | SRa (25%, acetone) | OD significantly reduced | MIC: 25%; toxic | Toxic under static, but neutralized under dynamic conditions | ||
| SRm (25%, acetone) | No significant antibacterial activity | None | No apparent toxicity or inhibition | |||
| Proteus mirabilis | Polar extracts (methanol, ethyl acetate, hexane) | All extracts showed activity; hexane extract exhibited the strongest inhibition | Moderate to high activity | -- | (Tomita et al., 1997; Sumit et al., 2008; Ruiz-Ruiz et al., 2017) | |
| Chloroform | Inhibition (10 mm zone of inhibition) | 10 mm | Antibacterial activity | |||
| Salmonella spp. | Fermented hot water extract | Viability reduced from ∼109 to <102 cfu/mL within 2 h at 20% (v/v) concentration | High susceptibility | Low pH disrupts bacterial metabolism and inhibits growth | Tomita et al. (1997) | |
| Staphylococcus aureus | Crude methanolic extract | Inhibitory rate of 50%; Amoxicillin used as positive control; DMSO (<1%) as negative control | -- | -- | (Tomita et al., 1997; Sumit et al., 2008; ; Ruiz-Ruiz et al., 2017; ) | |
| Shaking extraction (ethanol: water = 80:20), 50 mg/mL | Highest inhibition zone reached 28.00 mm; range: 10.33–28.00 mm | 10.33–28.00 mm; classified as high activity (>14 mm) | -- | |||
| Fermented hot water extract (30%–40% v/v) | Significant inhibition after 2 h | Approx. 30%–40% (v/v); moderately sensitive | Acidic pH weakens cell wall synthesis, causing structural disruption | |||
| Pseudomonas aeruginosa | SRa (25%, acetone extract of S. rebaudiana) | No synergy with Phi6 phage; OD decreased under static condition | MIC: 25%; growth inhibition under static conditions | Weak toxicity; activity reduced under dynamic condition | (Sumit et al., 2008; Ruiz-Ruiz et al., 2017; ; Stachurska et al., 2023) | |
| Shaking extraction (ethanol:water = 50:50), 25–50 mg/mL | Inhibition zone up to 14.67 mm; range: 6.27–14.67 mm | 6.27–14.67 mm; moderate activity (10–14 mm) | -- | |||
| Pseudomonas syringae | SRm (25%, Methanol) | No synergy with Phi6; flat growth curve | -- | Limited impact on growth; no lysis or synergy | Stachurska et al. (2023) | |
| Enterococcus faecalis | Shaking extraction (ethanol:water = 50:50), 50 mg/mL | Inhibition zone up to 18.00 mm; range: 6.67–18.00 mm | 6.67–18.00 mm; moderate to high activity (≥14 mm) | -- | (Sumit et al., 2008; ) | |
| Bacillus subtilis | Crude methanolic extract | Inhibitory rate of 51.8%; Amoxicillin used as positive control; DMSO (<1%) as negative control | Inhibitory rate: 51.8% (qualitative) | -- | (Tomita et al., 1997; Sumit et al., 2008; ) | |
| water extract | Inhibition zone approximately 8–9 mm | mild activity (8–9 mm) | -- | |||
| Vibrio parahaemolyticus | Fermented hot water extract | <10% (v/v) extract significantly reduced colony count within 2 h; highly sensitive | Not numerically specified (highly sensitive) | Extremely sensitive to acidic pH; low concentration causes cell lysis | Tomita et al. (1997) | |
| Bacillus cereus | Fermented hot water extract | <10% (v/v) extract showed significant inhibition, but spores may survive | Not numerically specified; sensitive (spore resistance noted) | Acidic pH affects vegetative cells; spores highly resistant but partially inactivated | ||
| Yersinia enterocolitica | Fermented hot water extract | 30%–40% (v/v) concentration caused significant inhibition within 2 h | Not numerically specified (moderately sensitive) | Acidic pH inhibits physiological activity and disrupts cell membrane integrity | ||
| Listeria monocytogenes | Stevia ethanolic extract | Inhibitory at 62.5–500 µg/mL; MIC = 125 µg/mL, MBC = 250 µg/mL; inhibited biofilm formation (P < 0.01), damaged membranes, caused nucleic acid leakage | MIC = 125 µg/mL; MBC = 250 µg/mL | Damages cell membrane, inhibits biofilm formation, induces nucleic acid leakage | ||
| Fungi | Candida albicans | Water, ethanol, and acetone extracts | Acetone extract showed strongest inhibition; more effective than water extract | Inhibition zone: 17–21 mm (acetone); lower for other solvents | Likely related to cell wall or membrane disruption | (; Ruiz-Ruiz et al., 2017) |
| Trichophyton rubrum | Leaf extract | Maximum inhibition zone of 12 mm at a concentration of 7.5 µg/mL | Inhibition zone: 9–12 mm | Possibly disrupts cell membrane and/or cell wall integrity | (; Sumit et al., 2008) | |
| A.niger | Petroleum Ether | Inhibition (16 mm zone of inhibition | 16 mm | Antifungal activity | Sumit et al. (2008) Sumit et al. (2008) | |
| P. chrysogenum | Cyclohexane | Inhibition (14 mm zone of inhibition) | 14 mm | Antifungal activity | ||
| A. solani | Chloroform | Inhibition (16 mm zone of inhibition) | 16 mm | Antifungal activity | ||
| Viruses | Rotavirus | Methanolic leaf extract | Maximum inhibition ∼71.6% at 200 µg/mL; no significant cytotoxicity observed | IC50 ≈ 95 µg/mL; CC50 > 300 µg/mL | May interfere with viral adsorption/entry; activates host defenses | Takahashi et al. (2001) |
| Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 | Polysaccharide fractions (SFW, SSFK) | Both fractions significantly inhibited HSV-1 infection. SFW: EC50 = 0.3 µg/mL, SI = 917; SSFK: EC50 = 18.8 µg/mL, SI > 53. Reduced plaque size post-entry. | SFW: EC50 = 0.3 µg/mL; SSFK: EC50 = 18.8 µg/mL; SI > 50 | Interferes with viral adsorption, penetration, glycoprotein expression, and cell-to-cell transmission; heparin-mimetic competition | (; ) | |
| Parasites | Trypanosoma cruzi | DCM extract of Stevia aristata | 100 µg/mL killed 100% of parasites in vitro within 96 h; EC50 = 47.9 µg/mL; significantly reduced cyst weight in vivo (5.47 → 2.55 g, p < 0.05) | EC50 = 47.9 µg/mL; total kill at 100 µg/mL (96 h) | -- | |
| Entamoeba histolytica | Stevioside (STV) | IC50 = 9.53 mM (24 h); induced cell membrane irregularity, autophagic vacuole formation, and morphological abnormalities; reduced liver damage in vivo | IC50 = 9.53 mM (24 h) | Disrupts membrane structure, induces autophagy-like vacuoles, inhibits cysteine protease expression and proteolytic activity |
Antimicrobial categories of S. rebaudiana.
S. rebaudiana acetone extract → SRa.
S. rebaudiana methanol extract → SRm.
Activity level based on inhibition zone diameter.
<7 mm: No activity.
7–10 mm: Low activity.
10–14 mm: Moderate activity.
14 mm: High activity.
Antibacterial Index (Abl): A comparative indicator of antimicrobial potency based on inhibition zone diameter (Abl ∝ zone size).
TABLE 6
| Metabolites category | Representative compounds | Estimated relative abundance | Potential bioactivities and health benefits | Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Diterpenes and Derivatives | Stevioside, Rebaudioside A Rebaudioside C Dulcoside A | Steviol glycosides 8%–20%; Stevioside, 4%–13%; Rebaudioside A, 2.3%–3.8%; Rebaudioside C, 1%–2%; Dulcoside A, 0.4%–0.7%; Rebaudioside D, ∼0.2%; Rebaudioside M, ∼0.1% | Antidiabetic, antihypertensive, anti-obesity | (; ; Zhou et al., 2021; ) |
| Phenols and Derivatives | Gallic acid, Caffeic acid, Rosmarinic acid, Chlorogenic acid | Total phenolics (TPC) mg GAE/g DW:80.13–86.47; Total flavonoids (TFC) mg QE/g DW: 111.16–126.70 | Antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant | (Singh et al., 2024b; ; ; ; ; ; Simlat et al., 2023; ) |
| Total phenolics (TPC) mg GAE/g extract 259.96 ± 23.66 Total flavonoids (TFC) mg QE/g extract 247.41 ± 19.92 | ||||
| Total phenolics (TPC) mg GAE/g DW:5.3 Total flavonoids (TFC) mg CE/g DW:28.6 Condensed tannins (CTC) mg CE/g DW: 4.6 | ||||
| Phenylethanoids | Tyrosol-like metabolites | -- | Antimicrobial, antiviral, antioxidant, gut health promotion | |
| Polysaccharides | Arabinogalactan II Fructooligosaccharides | 8.1g/100 g | Immunomodulatory, antioxidant, gut health promotion | (; ; ; ) |
| Volatile Oils | Caryophyllene, Linalool, Geraniol, α-Humulene, Borneol | 0.25% (v/w) in dry leaf | Antimicrobial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory | (Singh et al., 2024b; ) |
| Amino Acids and Derivatives | Leucine, Glutamine | 11.2–16.0 g/100 g | Immune function enhancement, protein synthesis promotion | (; ) |
| Fatty Acids and Derivatives | Linolenic acid, Palmitic acid | 1.9–3.73 g/100 g | Cardiovascular disease prevention, cholesterol reduction, metabolic improvement | (; ) |
| Oligosaccharides | γ-Cyclodextrin, Maltose phosphate derivatives, Trehalose | -- | Gut health promotion, antidiabetic effects | |
| Sesquiterpenes | β-Caryophyllene, Farnesol, Humulene | -- | Anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial | (Simlat et al., 2023; ) |
| Other | Nutritional and non-essential bioactive metabolites | Dietary fiber: 6.8–15.2 g/100 g Vitamin C: 14.98 mg/100 g Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): 0.43 mg/100 g Folic acid: 52.18 µg/100 g Pyrogallol-type compounds (phenolic derivatives): 951.27 mg/100 g | -- | (; ; ) |
Major metabolite Categories of S. rebaudiana, Their Bioactivities, Estimated Relative Abundance and Health Benefits.
GAE, gallic acid equivalent; QE, quercetin equivalent; DW, dry weight.
This table summarizes the major classes of chemical constituents identified in S. rebaudiana as reported in the current literature, including estimates of their relative abundance, representative monomers, and typical pharmacological activities of these monomers. It provides a reference for future targeted screening and functional investigations.
TABLE 7
| Category | Component | Content (unit) | Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Nutritional Components (per 100 g dry leaf) | Moisture | 5.5 g | |
| Ash | 8.2 g | ||
| Crude protein | 16.2 g | ||
| Crude fat | 3.8 g | ||
| Crude fiber | 7.9 g | ||
| Carbohydrates | 58.8 g | ||
| Mineral Content (per 100 g dry leaf) | Calcium (Ca) | 359.6 mg/100 g | |
| Sodium (Na) | 102.9 mg/100 g | ||
| Potassium (K) | 347.4 mg/100 g | ||
| Magnesium (Mg) | 324.1 mg/100 | ||
| Iron (Fe) | 297.9 mg/100 g | ||
| Copper (Cu) | 3.7 mg/100 g | ||
| Manganese (Mn) | 9.4 mg/100 g |
Nutritional and Mineral Composition of S. rebaudiana Leaves (per 100 g dry weight).
6 Quality control of S. rebaudiana
With the growing global application of S. rebaudiana as both a natural sweetener and potential herbal medicine, quality control has become a focal point for regulatory bodies and the scientific community. Numerous countries have established regulatory frameworks centered on quantifying active constituents, impurity limits, and batch-to-batch consistency of herbal medicines. For instance, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) have provided specific guidelines on the purity, safety thresholds, and allowable impurities of steviol glycosides (; ; ; ; Younes et al., 2020).
The pharmacologically active components of S. rebaudiana, such as steviol glycosides, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, are highly influenced by environmental and technical variables, including geographical origin, cultivar, growth period, harvest season, fertilization, and postharvest processing (; ). These variables directly affect the pharmacological activity, clinical efficacy, and safety of the plant. Thus, establishing a standardized and quantifiable quality control system is crucial for the regulated development of this product.
In contrast to international standards, which mainly emphasize high-purity steviol glycosides, quality control efforts in China focus more on the botanical diversity of raw materials, the context of multi-herb formulations, and the reproducibility of the preparation methods. Given the extensive use of whole-leaf materials and polyherbal combinations in traditional Chinese medicine, an adaptive and multifaceted evaluation system is particularly important. This section highlights recent representative studies from China and compares them with international standards to provide insights into the global integration of plants.
In China, Although S. rebaudiana has not yet been included in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia, 2020 edition, a multidimensional quality assessment system has gradually emerged, encompassing four key areas: morphological identification, chemical fingerprinting, process standardization, and quantitative analysis of bioactive metabolites.
In terms of morphological identification, a local Chinese botanical medicine standard (Gansu Provincial Standard of Chinese Medicinal Materials, 2020 edition) defines the appearance and microscopic characteristics of the dried leaves (Figures 6, 7). Drawing on the strategy proposed by Chen et al. in their study on Saussurea involucrata, a combination of polarized light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and macroscopic characterization can facilitate the differentiation of adulterant species within the same genus, enhancing the traceability of botanical sources ().
FIGURE 6
FIGURE 7
For process standardization, Wu et al. (Wu et al., 2025) proposed a quality control strategy centered on the concept of a “standard decoction,” identifying stevioside content, total phenolic acids, and extract yield as critical quality indicators. A combined analytic hierarchy process and entropy weighting model was employed to derive a comprehensive score (mean value: 78.03), thereby constructing a “design space” for extraction processes to ensure batch-to-batch consistency and support the standardized production of Chinese herbal granules.
With regard to pharmacopoeial parameters, Guo et al. () recommended the inclusion of physicochemical indices, such as impurities (≤4%), moisture (≤11%), total ash (≤9%), and ethanol-soluble extractives (≥41%), alongside minimum content thresholds for bioactive metabolites (stevioside ≥2%, rebaudioside A ≥3%) in quality specifications to enhance extract consistency and pharmacological reliability.
In chemical fingerprinting and quantitative analyses, Li et al. () established a high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) fingerprint covering 21 batches of samples, with six stable peaks (including chlorogenic acid and its isomers) identified and validated for repeatability, making it suitable for raw material consistency evaluation. Further, Gao et al. () applied a strategy combining “reference fingerprinting + comprehensive scoring model” to achieve an integrated, precise, and cost-effective assessment of S. rebaudiana decoction pieces, confirming the feasibility and industrial applicability of this approach.
In summary, the quality control system for S. rebaudiana is evolving toward greater standardization, traceability, and multidimensional integration. This development provides a robust foundation for high-quality applications in Chinese herbal granules, functional foods, and pharmacological research.
7 The potential value of S. rebaudiana in population health and clinical applications
Building on the identification of its bioactive components, it is particularly important to further explore the potential of S. rebaudiana for disease prevention and treatment. In recent years, as pharmacological studies have advanced, the functional applications of Stevia in both pediatric and adult populations have shown promising prospects. Table 8 summarizes representative in vivo and clinical studies on S. rebaudiana, illustrating its core pharmacological effects and therapeutic applications. The overall bioactivities and health effects of S. rebaudiana are summarized in Figure 8.
TABLE 8
| metabolite(s) | Extraction type | Dose range | Experimental setting | Experimental subject | Positive/Negative control | Main pharmacological effect | Main pharmacological category | Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stevioside | Monomeric compound (infusion/oral) | Infusion 0.3 mg/mL; Oral 25 mg/kg/day | In vitro + In vivo | Isolated rat hearts and in vivo rat model | Untreated ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) | Cardioprotection via regulation of myocardial calcium homeostasis and energy metabolism; reduction of mitochondrial calcium overload; increased sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ storage | Cardiovascular protection | |
| Stevioside (Nan Kai Chemical Factory, Tien Jing, China) | Capsules (250 mg) | 250 mg, 3 times/day for 4 weeks | Clinical | Human subjects (106 Chinese patients with mild hypertension) | Placebo-controlled | Significant reduction in systolic and diastolic blood pressure; no significant changes in body weight or biochemical parameters | Antihypertensive | |
| Stevioside | Pure compound (oral equivalent, modeled) | 4 mg/kg bw (simulated yearly intake) | In vitro (gut model) | Human child gut microbiota (fecal samples from 3 healthy donors) | -- | Increased microbial diversity (Actinobacteria, Enterobacteriaceae ↑); initial decline then stabilization of Lactobacillus; SCFA shift (butyrate and propionate ↑, lactate ↓); E. coli ↑; no significant antioxidant change | Gut microbiota modulation/Prebiotic | |
| Stevioside (ST), Sucralose (SU), ST+SU | Pure compounds (not extract) | >3 weeks (dose not specified) | In vivo (oral) | Normal and diabetic rats (STZ-induced) | Insulin used as positive control | ST and ST+SU significantly reduced blood glucose in diabetic rats; SU alone ineffective. ST mitigated pancreatic damage and improved lipid profile. ST+insulin improved bilirubin and cholesterol. SU caused pancreatic lesions. | Antidiabetic | |
| S. rebaudiana metabolites | -- | -- | In vivo | Diabetic rats (n = 40) | Metformin (positive control) | Significant reduction in fasting blood glucose (FBG); Increased serum insulin and reduced DPP-4 levels. Lower total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TGs), LDL, and increased HDL. Improved antioxidant markers (Glutathione (GSH) ↑, Malondialdehyde (MDA)↓). Enhanced metformin’s antidiabetic effect. | Antidiabetic/Cardiovascular Protection | |
| Stevioside | sweetener | -- | Open-label, single-arm study | Overweight and prediabetic adults (n = 45) | -- | Significant weight loss (1.63 kg in overweight group, 1.34 kg in prediabetes group); waist circumference reduction (3.79 cm and 1.91 cm respectively). No significant effect on blood glucose, HbA1c, or lipid levels. No adverse effects reported. | Weight management, Metabolic health | |
| S. rebaudiana metabolites | -- | 250 mg, twice daily | Randomized, single-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial | Chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients (n = 97) | Placebo | Significant improvement in serum creatinine, uric acid, fasting and postprandial blood glucose, and microalbumin levels, supporting potential renal and metabolic health benefits. | Renal health, Metabolic health | |
| S. rebaudiana metabolites | Residue extract from Stevia leaves | -- | Not specified | In vivo | Hyperuricemic mice | -- | STR significantly reduced serum uric acid, BUN, and creatinine, restored inflammatory cytokine levels, reduced renal inflammation, fibrosis, and EMT. Regulated key pathways (NF-κB/NLRP3, AMPK/SIRT1, JAK2-STAT3, Nrf2). Strong anti-inflammatory and renal protective effects in hyperuricemic mice, suggesting therapeutic potential. | Zou et al. (2020) |
| Stevioside, Aspartame, Xylitol | Pure compounds | 0.2% Sweetener in McBain Saliva | In vitro (microbial biofilm model) | 228 bovine enamel and dentin samples exposed to human saliva | Sucrose (positive control), xylitol (negative control) | Stevioside, aspartame, and xylitol significantly reduced lactate production (92% reduction compared to sucrose). All sweeteners (Stevia, Aspartame, Xylitol) had similar effects on lactate production. Stevia, aspartame, and sucrose showed no significant difference in enamel and dentin lactate production. Decreased demineralization (85% and 83%) with Stevia and Aspartame showing no significant difference compared to sucrose. | Caries Prevention | |
| Stevioside | -- | 1 g per test meal | Acute paired crossover human trial | 12 type 2 diabetic patients (4 female/8 male; mean age 65.8 years) | 1 g cornstarch (control) | Stevioside reduced postprandial glucose iAUC by 18% (P = 0.013); increased insulinogenic index by ∼40% (P < 0 0.001); insulin AUCI showed increasing trend (P = 0.08); no significant changes in GLP-1 or GIP; slight reduction in glucagon; no adverse effects | Insulinotropic effect | |
| Stevioside | Purified stevioside capsule | 500 mg, 3 times daily, for 2 years | Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled human trial | 174 Chinese adults (87 female, 87 male) with mild primary hypertension (aged 20–75) | Placebo capsule, 3 times daily | Significant reductions in blood pressure: SBP from 150 to 140 mmHg, DBP from 95 to 89 mmHg (P < 0.05); improved quality of life (P < 0.001); lower incidence of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH: 11.5% vs. 34%); no adverse effects reported | Antihypertensive | |
| Crude steviosides | Crude extract capsule | 3.75, 7.5, 15.0 mg/kg/day (7, 11, 6 weeks respectively), b.i.d. | Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial | Untreated patients with mild hypertension | Placebo (4 weeks) followed by dose-escalation | SBP and DBP decreased in treatment group (p < 0.05), but similar changes in placebo group; no statistically significant difference observed; no adverse effects reported | Antihypertensive | |
| Stevioside, Rebaudioside A | Aqueous solution (10%) | 10% (w/v); 1 min rinse | In vitro (S. mutans biofilm via MTT assay) and in vivo (human dental plaque pH) | 20 healthy human volunteers | Sucrose solution (10%) as positive control | Main Pharmacological Effect Did not promote S. mutans biofilm formation in vitro; prevented plaque pH drop in vivo after rinsing, unlike sucrose | Anti-caries/Antimicrobial | |
| Stevia-based rinse (steviol glycosides) | Aqueous rinse solution (6.4%) | Single dose, 1-min rinse | Human clinical study (parallel-group, single-blind) | Healthy adult volunteers | Tagatose, Sucrose | Significant differences in CFU/mL at 30 min and salivary pH at 48h; antimicrobial potential observed | Oral health/Antimicrobial | Urrutia-Espinosa et al. (2024) |
| Reb-A | Purified metabolite | 10–30 μM | In vitro (cellular mechanism) | Human hepatoma HepG2 cells | Pre-treatment with Reb-A (1 h) followed by CCl4 (0.4% v/v) for 24 h | Reb-A reduced cell death and oxidative stress via PKCε-JNK/ERK-Nrf2 signaling pathway; upregulated antioxidant enzymes HO-1, NQO1 | Hepatoprotective, Antioxidant | Wang et al. (2018) |
| S. rebaudiana aqueous extract | Water extract | 100 mg/kg/day, oral for 15 days | In vivo | Fixed stress-induced hyperglycemic rabbit model | Compared to hyperglycemic control group | Significant reductions in blood glucose, TC, TG, LDL, AI; increased HDL, liver and muscle glycogen; attenuated weight loss | Antihyperglycemic, antihyperlipidemic, liver/muscle protective | |
| Stevioside | -- | 10 mg/kg, oral, 7 days prior to injury, continued for 3 or 7 days | In vivo | Adult male Wistar rats (TA muscle cardiotoxin injection model) | Contralateral limb (left leg) as internal control | No significant increase in myofibrillar protein; significant increase in MyoD + nuclei (P < 0.05), reduction in NF-κB nuclear translocation (P < 0.05) | Muscle regeneration/Anti-inflammatory | |
| S. rebaudiana extract | -- | 400 mg/kg orally for 30 days | In vivo diabetes model | Male albino rats with STZ-induced | -- | Significantly reduced fasting blood glucose (from 264.2 ± 8.9 to 137.3 ± 7.3 mg/dL), improved islet morphology, increased insulin levels, and showed no toxicity | Antidiabetic | |
| Steviol glycosides | -- | 200 mg/kg/d, 500 mg/kg/d, oral, 28 days | In vivo | STZ-induced diabetic rats | -- | 200 mg/kg/d: Mild reduction in TC, TG, LDL, slight increase in HDL, upregulation of CPT1 and PPARα, inhibition of Cebpa expression. 500 mg/kg/d: Significant reduction in TC, TG, LDL, significant increase in HDL (P < 0.05), upregulation of PPARα, CPT1, HSL, inhibition of sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1c (SREBP-1c), ACC, FAS, Cebpa, Fasn expression. | Lipid metabolism regulation/Antidiabetic | |
| Stevia whole leaf powder, Polyphenols/Fiber extract | -- | 4.0% Stevia leaf powder in diet, 1 month | In vivo | Wistar rats (n = 80), STZ-induced diabetes (60 mg/kg i.p.) | -- | Significant reduction in blood glucose, ALT, AST; increased insulin levels; improved liver MDA, antioxidant enzyme activity; enhanced glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity; alleviated GFR decline and renal damage. Fiber group showed weaker effects. | Antidiabetic/Antioxidant/Hepatoprotective/Renoprotective | Shivanna et al. (2013) |
| Stevioside | -- | 100 and 200 mg/kg/day, oral, 8 weeks | In vivo | Male C57BL/6J mice, high-fat diet induced obesity, metabolic dysregulation, and anxiety/cognitive impairment | -- | 200 mg/kg: Significant reduction in body weight, blood lipids (TC, TG, LDL-C), fasting blood glucose (FBG); improvement in HOMA-IR, insulin levels, and sensitivity; reduction in liver fat accumulation; regulation of lipid metabolism genes (Glut4 ↑, Fasn ↓, Cebpa ↓); improvement in anxiety (elevated plus maze) and cognitive impairments (water maze); increased hippocampal BDNF and GABA_A expression; decreased inflammation markers (TNF-α, IL-1β). | Antidiabetic/Anti-inflammatory/Cognitive and Anxiety regulation | |
| Steviol | -- | 0.5, 1.0, 3.0 mg/kg/h, intravenous | In vivo | Male Wistar rats (n = 30) | 30 min control period + 30 min experimental period | Effect on renal clearance rates (Glucose C9, PAH Cp, Inulin Ci), sodium/potassium fractional clearance rates (FeNa+, FeK+), urine flow rate (V/GFR) | Renal function regulation | |
| Steviol, Stevioside | -- | 10−8 to 10−5 M | In vitro | L6 muscle cells (diabetic induced), 3T3-L1 adipocytes | Insulin-treated groups | Significant increase in glucose uptake (2-NBDG), upregulation of GLUT4 expression and membrane translocation, enhanced Akt phosphorylation in the absence of insulin (P < 0.001) | Insulin-mimetic/Antidiabetic | |
| Stevioside, Rebaudioside | -- | Stevioside 30 mg/kg, Rebaudioside A 100 mg/kg, i.p. | In vivo + Computational prediction | Swiss mice, MES and PTZ-induced epilepsy models | -- | Predicted binding to voltage-gated sodium channels (Nav1.2/1.6) with anti-epileptic activity. In vivo: Dose-dependent suppression of seizures, prolonged latency, reduced seizure rate in MES model (P < 0.05). | Antiepileptic/Neuroprotective | |
| Stevia ethanol extract | Ethanol extract | 200 mg/kg, oral, 4 weeks | In vivo (Type 2 diabetes) | db/db mice | -- | Improved insulin sensitivity, upregulated PGC-1α, NRF1, TFAM, reduced ROS and MDA, enhanced mitochondrial function | Antidiabetic/Mitochondrial regulation | |
| Stevia residue extract (STVRE) | Water extract | 75, 150, 300 mg/kg/day | In vivo | Male Kunming mice (high UA induced by 10% fructose, potassium oxonate, yeast extract) | Positive: Allopurinol 5 mg/kg | Reduces serum UA, XOD activity, inflammation markers (COX-2, NF-κB, PGE2, TNF-α, IL-1β), increases antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, GPx) | Antihyperuricemic/Renal protective | |
| S. rebaudiana leaf extract | Water extract (butanol fraction); isolated stevioside | Not precisely stated; 0–1,000 μg/mL | In vitro | Guinea pig ileum (smooth muscle) | ACh, Histamine, CaCl2 induced contraction | Butanol extract and stevioside significantly inhibited ACh-, Histamine-, and CaCl2-induced contractions, acting as Ca2+ channel blockers | Antispasmodic | Shiozaki et al. (2006) |
| Stevioside, Rebaudioside A | -- | Human: Dietary intake; Cebus apella: Equivalent exposure | In vivo | Healthy human volunteers and Cebus apella (capuchin monkeys) | -- | Altered gut microbiota composition and diversity; Increased SCFA (butyrate) levels; No pathogenic overgrowth | Gut microbiome modulation/Prebiotic-like effect | |
| S. rebaudiana leaf | Leaf extract (aqueous) | 0%–4% | In vitro | -- | Streptococcus mutans | Reduce acid production and biofilm formation by S. mutans | Antibacterial/Dental | |
| S. rebaudiana leaf extract | Water extract | 300 mg/kg, oral, 28 days | In vivo | STZ-induced diabetic Wistar male rats (60 mg/kg) | Normal control group and diabetic model group | Significant reduction in GRP78, CHOP, and caspase-12 expression; improved ALT/AST levels; alleviated ER stress and apoptosis; histological recovery in liver tissue | Antidiabetic/Hepatoprotective | Saadi et al. (2024) |
| Stevioside | Commercially sourced (purity ≥98%) | 25, 50, 100 μM | In vitro (MTT assay; qPCR for apoptosis genes) | Human prostate cancer cell line (PC-3) | DMSO (vehicle control); no positive drug | Stevioside significantly reduced cancer cell viability (MTT assay) in a dose-dependent manner. Induced apoptosis via increased Caspase-3 expression and decreased Bcl-2 and Mcl-1 expression (anti-apoptotic genes). Dose-dependent apoptosis induction (p < 0.05). | Apoptosis Induction | |
| Stevioside | -- | 25, 50, 100 μM | In vitro | Human osteosarcoma cell line (SaOs 2) | -- | Stevioside significantly inhibited osteosarcoma cell proliferation in a dose-dependent manner (MTT assay). Induced apoptosis through upregulation of pro-apoptotic Bax and downregulation of anti-apoptotic Bcl-xL and Bcl-2 genes via mitochondrial pathway. | Apoptosis Induction | |
| Stevioside (ST) | -- | -- | In vitro | Human breast cancer cell line (MCF-7) | -- | Stevioside induced apoptosis through ROS production, mitochondrial membrane potential (MTP) disruption, and activation of mitochondrial apoptotic pathway involving Bax, Bcl-2, and Caspase-9. It may also have potential effects on stress-related transcription factors, especially NF-E2 related factor-2. | Apoptosis Induction | |
| steviol | -- | 100–250 μg/mL | In vitro cytotoxicity assay and gene expression analysis | Human gastrointestinal cancer cells (6 lines incl. DLD-1, HCT-116) | 5-FU (positive); untreated control | Inhibits proliferation via mitochondrial apoptosis pathway (↑Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, activation of p21, p53); caspase-3-independent mechanism involved | Anti-proliferation | |
| Glycosylated isosteviol derivatives (e.g., 9a, 9e, 13a) | Semisynthetic glycosides from isosteviol | 1–100 μM; some >50% inhibition at 25–50 μM | MTT assay; some Annexin V apoptosis assay | HL-60, HCT-116, MCF-7 | Cisplatin (positive); DMSO (vehicle control) | Inhibited proliferation; some induced apoptosis (e.g., 9a, 13a in HL-60); improved water solubility | Apoptosis induction | Sharipova et al. (2019) |
| Glycosides and glycoconjugates of isosteviol (e.g., compound 13b) | Semisynthetic derivatization of isosteviol via glycosylation and linker conjugation | IC50 = 2.56–25.6 μM in HL-60; tested at 1–100 μM | In vitro cytotoxicity (MTT) + apoptosis (Annexin V-FITC/PI) + mitochondrial depolarization + G0/G1 cell cycle arrest | Human leukemia HL-60 cells | DMSO (vehicle); no chemical positive control used | Dose-dependent cytotoxicity; induced apoptosis via mitochondrial pathway (indicated by mitochondrial membrane potential loss); G0/G1 arrest; some compounds more potent than isosteviol | Apoptosis induction, activate mitochondrial pathway | |
| α-Fe2O3 nanoparticles biosynthesized using Stevia rebaudiana leaf extract | Green synthesis (in situ phytochemical-assisted reduction of Fe3+ using aqueous Stevia extract) | 6.25–200 μg/mL; IC50 ≈ 31.28 μg/mL in HepG2 | In vitro cytotoxicity by MTT assay | HepG2 (human hepatocellular carcinoma cells) | 5-Fluorouracil (positive); DMSO (vehicle) | Significant cytotoxicity; dose-dependent inhibition of HepG2 cell viability | Cytotoxicity | |
| Isosteviol, Steviol, Stevioside, Rebaudioside A | Isolated from Stevia rebaudianaleaves by methanol extraction and subsequent purification | 6.25–200 μg/mL; IC50 for isosteviol = 37.02 μg/mL (MCF-7 | In vitro MTT cytotoxicity assay | Human breast cancer cell line MCF-7 | Doxorubicin (positive); DMSO (vehicle) | Doxorubicin (positive); DMSO (vehicle) | Cytotoxicity | |
| Isosteviol derivatives | Semisynthetic from steviol | 1–100 μM; IC50: 3.4–67.8 μM | In vitro MTT and apoptosis assays (Annexin V-FITC/PI) | HL-60 (highly sensitive); HSC-2, HSC-3 (moderate); Caco-2, HSC-4 (resistant) | DMSO control | Induced apoptosis in HL-60 cells; selective cytotoxicity varies by cell line; no mitochondrial or caspase assays conducted | Apoptosis induction | Ukiya et al. (2013) |
| Isosteviol and derivatives (e.g., isosteviol-thiadiazole analogs) | Semi-synthetic derivatives from S. rebaudiana | 1–100 μM; IC50 = 4.4–58.4 μM (for Pol α inhibition) | In vitro enzyme inhibition assays and cancer cell proliferation tests | Human cancer cell lines (HL-60, HCT-116, etc.) | Etoposide (Topo inhibitor), 5-FU (Pol inhibitor) | Inhibited human DNA polymerase α, λ, γ and topoisomerase I activity; induced apoptosis; selective inhibition of tumor cells | DNA replication inhibition, topoisomerase inhibition | |
| Stevioside | Isolated from S. rebaudiana leaves | 5–100 μM; IC50: 55 μM (MDA-MB-231), 66 μM (SKBR3) | In vitro cytotoxicity and chemosensitization assay | Human breast cancer cell lines (MDA-MB-231, SKBR3) | 5-FU alone; untreated control | Induces apoptosis, increases ROS, enhances chemosensitivity to 5-FU, activates caspase-3/9, alters Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, DNA fragmentation | Chemosensitization, apoptosis induction | |
| Steviol | Isolated from S. rebaudiana leaves (purified standard compound) | 10–250 μM; IC50 = 185 μM in MCF-7 | In vitro: SRB assay (cytotoxicity); PI staining (cell cycle); AO/EB dual staining (apoptosis); ROS assay | MCF-7 (human breast cancer cell line) | DMSO (vehicle); no chemical positive control used | Induced apoptosis; dose-dependent cytotoxicity; G2/M phase arrest; reduced ROS levels; increased sub-G0/G1 apoptotic population | Apoptosis induction via ROS-mediated pathway; cell cycle regulation | |
| Steviolbioside | Enzymatic hydrolysis of stevioside using β-galactosidase | 25–400 μg/mL; IC50(HepG2) ≈ 80 μg/mL; SGC-7901 ≈ 110 μg/mL | In vitro (MTT assay, colony formation assay | Human hepatoma (HepG2), gastric carcinoma (SGC-7901), colon cancer (Caco-2), normal hepatocytes (L02), and over 30 additional human-derived cancer and normal cell lines | DMSO (vehicle); 5-FU (positive control) | Dose-dependent inhibition of cancer cell viability; weak effect on normal cells; no mechanism elaborated (no ROS, apoptosis markers reported) | Cytotoxicity effect |
Reported pharmacological activities and therapeutic potentials of S. rebaudiana.
FIGURE 8
7.1 Pharmacological potential of S. rebaudiana in pediatric populations
7.1.1 Prevention of dental caries
The World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines indicate a clear association between the consumption of free sugars and the incidence of dental caries in children. When the intake of free sugars exceeds 10% of the total energy consumption, the incidence of dental caries is significantly higher (WHO, 2015).
Many children opt for oral solutions, syrups, or suspensions when treating colds, as these formulations are easy to swallow and often contain sweeteners and flavoring agents to mask the bitter taste of medicines (). Similarly, when using traditional Chinese herbal decoctions to treat colds, children often require candies to mask bitterness or rewards to improve medication adherence. Without timely oral care, the risk of developing dental caries increases significantly.
S. rebaudiana leaves have been shown to inhibit cariogenic bacteria in the oral cavity. With a lower acid production capacity, S. rebaudiana effectively reduces plaque formation, thereby preventing dental caries (; Ruiz-Ruiz et al., 2017). Adding S. rebaudiana to decoctions not only improves the taste, enhancing children’s medication adherence, but also helps avoid excessive candy consumption to mask bitterness or neglecting oral care, thus reducing the risk of childhood caries.
7.1.2 Management of inflammatory conditions
Inflammation, an early host immune response mediated by immune cells and their secreted cytokines, plays a vital role in combating infection and injury (). Excessive activation of inflammatory responses can cause significant tissue damage, particularly in children (Slykerman et al., 2023). Moreover, children are particularly susceptible to oxidative stress induced by free radicals during rapid growth and development. The intake of natural compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties can help mitigate inflammatory responses and support healthy development ().
However, traditional treatments for inflammation often involve the use of antibiotics, corticosteroids, and other medications (Zou et al., 2020). Early or excessive use of antibiotics can disrupt the gut microbiota, increasing the risk of diseases such as asthma and allergic rhinitis (). The use of antibiotics significantly reduces the diversity of gut and lung microbiota, disrupting the bidirectional regulation of the gut-lung axis (), thereby increasing susceptibility to respiratory diseases (Zeng and Liang, 2022). S. rebaudiana leaves possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory properties, with minimal impact on gut microbiota balance, making them suitable for treating inflammatory conditions in children (). In animal models of inflammatory stimulation, Stevia extracts have been shown to downregulate the inhibitor of kappa B alpha (IκBα)/NF-κB signaling pathway, inhibit the activation of IκB kinase β (IKKβ) and NF-κB, and suppress the expression of inflammatory cytokines, including IL-6. These actions effectively interfere with inflammation triggered by stimuli, including lipopolysaccharide (LPS) (; ; ). In the absence of external stimuli, S. rebaudiana extracts modulated the inflammatory response of THP-1 cells and under specific conditions, suppressed the excessive release of TNF-α and NO. This process disrupted the binding of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) to LPS and inhibited downstream signaling pathways (). The mechanism underlying this process is illustrated in Figure 9.
FIGURE 9
In TCM, S. rebaudiana is used to relieve dryness, alleviate cough, clear heat, detoxify, and enhance immune function. Modern pharmacological studies have also supported these properties. In pediatric mycoplasma pneumonia and bronchial asthma, phenolic metabolites of S. rebaudiana have been shown to reduce airway inflammation and improve respiratory symptoms (; Wang et al., 2023). In the treatment of recurrent respiratory infections and recurrent purulent tonsillitis in children, S. rebaudiana has demonstrated immunomodulatory effects, enhancing the respiratory tract’s resistance to infection and inhibiting pathogen growth (; ; ; ; Yang et al., 2024).
In children with rhinitis and cough-variant asthma, phenolic metabolites have been shown to improve sinus inflammation and reduce cough (; Xu and Zhao, 2023). In the treatment of primary immune thrombocytopenic purpura, S. rebaudiana has been shown to improve medication adherence and exert immunomodulatory effects ().
Overall, owing to its natural origin and low side-effect profile, S. rebaudiana provides an effective and safe treatment option for inflammatory diseases in children, particularly for the long-term management of chronic inflammatory conditions in pediatric populations.
7.1.3 Prevention and treatment of pediatric obesity
Childhood and adolescent obesity have been increasingly recognized as global health problems. By 2016, over 340 million children and adolescents aged 5–19 years worldwide were overweight or obese (). Overweight and obesity among school-aged children are argued to impact their physical and mental health, academic performance, and quality of life (). Controlling the intake of sugary beverages is a key measure for preventing childhood obesity (). The WHO recommends that, ideally, the intake of free sugars in children and adolescents should be limited to less than 5% of the total energy intake (WHO, 2022a).
Compared to common artificial non-nutritive sweeteners, stevia is a natural sweetener that is not metabolized by the human body (Samuel et al., 2018) and has a minimal biological impact on hypothalamic cells, thus avoiding the central leptin resistance associated with obesity (). A long-term study of 1,893 children and adolescents aged 6–15 years confirmed that regular consumption of stevia does not increase body fat content, suggesting that stevia can be used as a sugar substitute to reduce the risk of obesity in childhood (; ).
Furthermore, stevia reduces appetite without increasing food intake or postprandial blood glucose levels. This suggests that stevia could be a valuable strategy for the prevention and management of obesity and diabetes (; Stamataki et al., 2020; WHO, 2022a).
7.1.4 Benefits for gut health
In traditional Chinese medicine, S. rebaudiana leaves are believed to have multiple benefits, including nourishing the yin, replenishing body fluids, tonifying the spleen and stomach, and promoting bowel movement. Modern pharmacological studies have gradually verified these traditional uses and revealed the impact of its bioactive metabolites on gut functions.
In children, the gut microbiota undergoes significant changes during early life, influenced by factors such as maternal diet, mode of delivery, infant feeding practices, and antibiotic use. A healthy gut microbiota is essential for maintaining growth and health in children, whereas dysbiosis can lead to issues such as allergies, obesity, and metabolic disorders (; ). The gut microbiota plays a crucial role in the body by regulating enzyme secretion, metabolite production (e.g., short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs)), and influencing hormone levels (e.g., insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), Peptide YY (PYY), and glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1)), as well as regulating immune responses and inflammation (e.g., lipopolysaccharide (LPS)) ().
WeiKe is a phytochemically bioactive metabolites mixture isolated from S. rebaudiana, with major constituents including curcumin (27.26%), encecalin (14.22%), altholactone (8.28%), protocatechuic aldehyde (8.24%), 4-nitrocatechol (7.67%), syringic acid (7.38%), and phenol (5.07%) (). Studies have demonstrated that WeiKe can effectively modulate gut dysbiosis induced by a high-fat high-fructose diet (HFFD), significantly reducing the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio and thereby ameliorating obesity and metabolic disorders (). Additionally, stevia significantly increases the abundance of Lactobacillus and Akkermansia, further promoting gut health and maintaining the integrity of the intestinal mucosal barrier (). These effects align closely with traditional Chinese medicine theory, which suggests that stevia promotes spleen and stomach health and facilitates bowel movements.
Steviosides and their analogs also show potential as antidiarrheal agents. Steviol, a major metabolite, plays a vital role in regulating intestinal ion transport, particularly in its effects on intestinal Cl−, thereby contributing to its therapeutic potential (). Steviosides can also inhibit excessive contraction of the intestinal smooth muscle, alleviating diarrhea caused by hypermotility, especially in conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease ().
Moreover, its antioxidant properties help improve and maintain the integrity of the intestinal barrier, optimize nutrient absorption, and reduce inflammation-induced damage to the gut, supporting its use in promoting gut health (; Xu et al., 2023).
7.1.5 Neurological and cognitive support
Depression, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), epilepsy, and tic disorders are common neurological conditions in children. These disorders are often accompanied by oxidative stress and excessive neuroinflammatory responses (). Natural bioactive metabolites in S. rebaudiana exhibit significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help mitigate neuroinflammation, scavenge free radicals, and reduce oxidative damage to neurons, thereby contributing to the protection of the pediatric nervous system (Slykerman et al., 2023; Waris et al., 2024). Notably, S. rebaudiana extracts have been shown to cross the blood–brain barrier (), enhancing their accessibility and potential efficacy in the treatment of central nervous system disorders (Uyanikgil et al., 2016).
In the treatment of depression, S. rebaudiana alleviates mood disorders by modulating the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome and improving microglial cell function (). Moreover, inhibiting the release of NADPH oxidase helps to stabilize neural networks and ameliorate neurological dysfunction caused by metabolic disorders ().
In epilepsy and neuroinflammatory diseases such as encephalitis and febrile seizures, S. rebaudiana suppresses astrocyte proliferation, inhibits the NF-κB signaling pathway, and reduces excessive intracellular calcium influx. These actions significantly lower the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as TNF-α and IL-6, thereby alleviating neuroinflammation and improving seizure symptoms (; Uyanikgil et al., 2016; ).
In addition, children with ADHD and tic disorders are generally more sensitive to the adverse effects of conventional medications (). The metabolites of S. rebaudiana can modulate the dopaminergic system, suppress excessive dopamine receptor activation, and reduce neuroinflammation, effectively improving attention, controlling impulsive behavior, and alleviating tic symptoms (; ; Salinas-Velarde et al., 2021).
In the TCM system, S. rebaudiana has been incorporated into compound herbal formulas for the treatment of pediatric tic disorders. It is commonly combined with Chrysanthemum morifolium (to clear heat and suppress the hyperactive liver), Arisaema cum bile (to resolve phlegm and calm endogenous wind), and Paeonia suffruticosa (to cool the blood and disperse stasis) as core couplet medicines (). However, these prescriptions are largely based on empirical use and preliminary research, and their possible underlying mechanisms lack systematic pharmacological validation. The potential synergistic effects may include multi-target anti-inflammatory action, sedative and tranquilizing effects, and the regulation of neurotransmitter metabolism. Further pharmacological investigations and clinical trials are warranted to validate their efficacy as monotherapy or adjunctive treatments in pediatric neuropsychiatric disorders, particularly in patients sensitive to adverse drug reactions or requiring long-term management.
Therefore, S. rebaudiana holds promise as an adjuvant therapeutic strategy or natural alternative medication for pediatric neuropsychiatric patients who require long-term treatment and are sensitive to adverse effects.
7.2 Pharmacological potential of S. rebaudiana in adults
7.2.1 Lipid regulation and cardiovascular health
S. rebaudiana promotes cardiovascular health through multiple activities, including the regulation of blood lipids and blood pressure, and exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Its polyphenolic and other antioxidant metabolites effectively reduce free radical damage () and inhibit the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway, lowering the levels of inflammation markers associated with atherosclerosis, such as IL-6 and MCP-1, thereby delaying arteriosclerosis progression (). Furthermore, steviosides reduce inflammation and oxidative stress while promoting the activation of satellite cells and muscle regeneration by inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway, particularly in the recovery from heart muscle injury caused by cardiotoxicity ().
Steviosides also alleviate cardiac fibrosis by inhibiting the TGF-β/Smad pathway and regulating the protein expression of MMP2/9 and TIMP2/4. When used in combination with insulin, steviosides demonstrate enhanced reversal effects, providing new evidence of their efficacy in the treatment of diabetic heart complications (Zhao et al., 2020).
In cardiovascular disease treatment, S. rebaudiana metabolites typically exhibit only mild side effects (; ; Villegas Vílchez et al., 2022). Compared to common antihypertensive drugs, S. rebaudiana metabolites not only show a significant cardioprotective effect but also exhibit lower nephrotoxicity (). Moreover, S. rebaudiana metabolites do not induce dose-dependent liver dysfunction or muscle damage, which are commonly associated with statin use (). Overall, S. rebaudiana leaves and their extracts exhibit significant potential for improving cardiovascular health in adults, with evidence supporting their application as natural cardiovascular protectants in humans.
7.2.2 Management of diabetes mellitus
Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disease characterized by impaired glucose metabolism due to defects in insulin secretion or action, resulting in disruption of carbohydrate, lipid, and protein metabolism (). Although S. rebaudiana is widely recognized as a natural sweetener, its use as a natural hypoglycemic herbal remedy for diabetes has garnered increasing attention in the past few years. S. rebaudiana metabolites can activate sweet taste receptors (T1R2/T1R3) in the intestine, promoting glucose absorption and insulin secretion (). The polyphenolic metabolites in S. rebaudiana enhance the activity of hepatic glucokinase, facilitating glucose utilization and glycogen storage while inhibiting hepatic glucose output, thereby contributing to stable blood glucose levels (). Additionally, S. rebaudiana metabolites inhibit the activity of digestive enzymes, such as α-amylase and α-glucosidase, which slows the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates, thereby further assisting in the control of blood glucose levels ().
Moreover, studies have confirmed that metabolites in S. rebaudiana, including steviophethanoside, 6-O-acetyl-(12R)-epiblumdane, and rebaudioside IX, act directly on Insulinoma Cell Line-1 (INS-1) cell lines to activate GLUT4, significantly promoting insulin secretion (; ; Ruiz-Ruiz et al., 2017; ; ). This mechanism has been validated in diabetic rat models, where steviol glycosides activate the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) signaling pathway, regulate the translocation of GLUT4, and enhance cellular glucose uptake ().
In response to oxidative stress and organ damage caused by hyperglycemia, S. rebaudiana metabolites protect pancreatic β-cell function and survival by inhibiting apoptosis and necrosis pathways associated with diabetes (; ). Moreover, research has indicated that these polyphenols effectively alleviate oxidative stress and organ damage caused by hyperglycemia ().
Furthermore, S. rebaudiana metabolites modulate antioxidant signaling pathways in the kidneys (Nrf2/Keap1) and the expression of aquaporin-2 (AQP2), alleviating metabolic disturbances and renal damage induced by diabetes (). The Suprol complex in Stevia also interacts with Nox enzymes, modulating intracellular redox signaling and impacting glucose metabolism and NF-κB-mediated inflammation ().
Additionally, S. rebaudiana metabolites inhibit the formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and reverse DNA damage caused by glycation (Shahu et al., 2023). Under hyperglycemic conditions, a stevia-enriched diet reduces the number of cytotoxic T cells and pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-1β) in peripheral circulation, thereby modulating the inflammatory processes associated with diabetes (). Figures 10, 11 illustrate the multi-targeted mechanisms by which S. rebaudiana regulates glucose metabolism.
FIGURE 10
FIGURE 11
The incorporation of nanotechnology has further enhanced the delivery and efficacy of steviosides, offering promising avenues for future antidiabetic strategies (Sudhakar et al., 2021).
7.2.3 Hepatoprotective and nephroprotective effects
In terms of hepatoprotection, S. rebaudiana metabolites promote the degradation of intracellular lipid droplets through the activation of autophagy mediated by Sirt1, AMPK, and PPARα, thereby reducing lipid accumulation, hepatic steatosis, and improving liver function (; ). Additionally, they regulate the gene expression of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) and glucokinase (GCK), significantly decreasing the expression of the insulin receptor (INSR) in the liver, thereby improving glucose metabolism and mitigating diabetes-induced liver cell apoptosis (). Furthermore, S. rebaudiana metabolites effectively prevent experimental liver cirrhosis by modulating NF-κB, Nrf2, TGF-β, and Smad7 and activating hepatic stellate cells ().
For kidney protection, S. rebaudiana metabolites inhibit the formation of angiotensin II, thereby reducing glomerular pressure () and regulating water and electrolyte balance, promoting sodium and water excretion (), and effectively alleviating the renal burden induced by hypertension. S. rebaudiana metabolites also improve renal tubular necrosis, protein casts, and diabetic kidney tissue damage caused by insulin dysregulation (Shivanna et al., 2013; ). By activating the AMPK and Sirt1 signaling pathways, S. rebaudiana metabolites enhance autophagy, thereby improving the self-repair capacity of the kidneys (). Moreover, steviosides can activate PPARγ to reduce the protein expression of NF-κB, TGF-β1, Smad2/3, p-Smad2/3, and p-STAT3 in NRK-52E cells, thereby inhibiting LPS-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition, providing pharmacological evidence for their application in preventing and treating kidney fibrosis (Shen et al., 2022).
Overall, S. rebaudiana leaves show promising potential for hepatoprotective and nephroprotective applications, particularly in the treatment of liver and kidney diseases associated with oxidative stress, inflammation, and metabolic disorders.
8 Advantages of S. rebaudiana over artificial sweeteners
A wide range of non-nutritive sweeteners are currently in use, including acesulfame potassium, aspartame, advantame, saccharin, neotame, cyclamate, sucralose, and natural alternatives such as steviol glycosides (WHO, 2022b; ). To assess the unique advantages of S. rebaudiana, particularly its thermal stability and compatibility with compound herbal formulas in traditional decoctions, this study makes a comprehensive comparison of the physicochemical properties and biological activities of various sweeteners (Table 9).
TABLE 9
| Category | Sweetness (relative to sucrose) | Advantages | Disadvantages | Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aspartame | 200x | Widely used in beverages and low-calorie foods | Heat-labile; unsuitable for baking; contraindicated in phenylketonuria | (; ) |
| Stevioside | 200–300x | Naturally derived Contains bioactive metabolites with potential health benefits; heat stable; gut-friendly; Sweet and neutral in TCM properties, suitable for a wide range of populations | May exhibit a bitter or metallic aftertaste at high concentrations | (; ; ) |
| Sucralose | 450–650x | Highly heat stable; not metabolized by the human body | Potential gut microbiota disruption; insufficient long-term data | |
| Saccharin | 300–400 x | Low-cost; heat stable | May produce an unpleasant metallic or bitter taste at high concentrations; historical carcinogenic concerns remain controversial | |
| Acesulfame K | 200x | High stability: Heat-resistant and acid-resistant, suitable for a wide range of applications. | May be perceived as bitter or metallic | |
| Advantame | 20,000x | Extremely high sweetness; highly stable | Contraindicated in phenylketonuria | (Ruiz-Ojeda et al., 2019; ; ) |
| High stability: Suitable for a wide range of applications | Low market penetration: Limited to a smaller range of applications | |||
| Cyclamate | 30–50x | Heat stable; low-cost; broadly applicable | Health risks; Previously banned in some countries due to suspected links to cancer risk Poor taste: Sometimes has a slightly bitter or metallic aftertaste | (Ruiz-Ojeda et al., 2019; ) |
| Neotame | 7,000–13,000x | Heat-resistant and acid-resistant; widely applicable Contains phenylalanine: Does not affect individuals with phenylketonuria. | Low market penetration: Despite broad applications, it has lower recognition compared to other sweeteners. | (Ruiz-Ojeda et al., 2019; ; ) |
Comparative assessment of S. rebaudiana and synthetic non-nutritive sweeteners.
This table summarizes the sweetness intensity, advantages, and limitations of common Artificial Sweeteners. Glycosides from S. rebaudiana, derived from traditional Chinese botanical drugs, have unique advantages in terms of safety, thermal stability, and cultural compatibility with traditional decoction methods.
Compared to commonly used artificial sweeteners, steviol glycosides have several notable advantages. First, as natural plant-derived metabolites, they align with consumer preferences for “natural and healthy” products and are culturally compatible, particularly in the form of TCM preparations. With a neutral sweet flavor and mild thermal properties, steviol glycosides do not interfere with the therapeutic nature of herbal formulas. They also exhibit excellent thermal stability and water solubility, allowing them to retain both sweetness and bioactivity during high-temperature decoction processes (). Additionally, stevia has minimal impact on the gut microbiota and possesses antioxidant, hypoglycemic, and anti-inflammatory properties, making it suitable for long-term use in patients with chronic conditions and improving overall treatment adherence.
In contrast, many artificial sweeteners, despite their high sweetness intensity and cost efficiency, have limitations such as thermal instability (e.g., aspartame), potential safety concerns (e.g., saccharin and cyclamate), and adverse effects on gut microbial balance (e.g., sucralose) (; Ruiz-Ojeda et al., 2019; ; ). Although some artificial sweeteners, such as acesulfame potassium and neotame, are thermally stable, their lack of cultural relevance and limited regulatory support in TCM contexts restrict their application in traditional medicine systems.
Among all widely used non-nutritive sweeteners, S. rebaudiana extracts are derived from medicinal and edible traditional herbs, giving them a unique advantage in integrated medicine (; Yeung, 2023). They exhibit good thermal and aqueous stability, making them ideal for herbal decoctions and functional foods, while providing health-promoting bioactivities (). Moreover, from a TCM perspective, steviol glycosides are considered sweet and neutral in nature, and are thus suitable for a wide range of individuals.
Taken together, based on the comparative characteristics summarized in Table 9, steviol glycosides emerge as a superior functional sweetener because of their natural origin, thermal stability, biofunctional properties, safety profile, and compatibility with both cultural and medicinal contexts. These qualities underscore their promising potential for inclusion in dietary recommendations and standardization of traditional medicine-based prescriptions.
9 Safety evaluation
In recent years, the widespread application of S. rebaudiana as a natural sweetener has led to sustained attention to its safety. Major international regulatory agencies, including the WHO and EFSA, have confirmed its safe use in both food and pharmaceutical contexts (). The acceptable daily intake for steviol glycosides has been established at 4 mg/kg body weight, with a permitted impurity level of up to 5% (Younes et al., 2020). In China, the Ministry of Health approved its use as a pharmaceutical excipient as early as 1990 (). The safety of S. rebaudiana has been supported by a large volume of clinical and toxicological research, including over 40,000 clinical trials conducted in Japan ().
From a pharmacokinetic perspective, steviol glycosides are not hydrolyzed in the upper gastrointestinal tract but are metabolized by the intestinal microbiota into steviol, which is rapidly excreted in the urine without systemic accumulation. This metabolic route significantly reduces potential toxicity and is consistent across both children and adults (Samuel et al., 2018; Salehi et al., 2019; ; ).
Genotoxicity assessments have indicated that S. rebaudiana and its metabolites are non-mutagenic and non-genotoxic (Suttajit et al., 1993; Uçar et al., 2018). Long-term carcinogenicity studies in rodents have not demonstrated tumorigenic potential (). In a 90-day subchronic toxicity test, even exposure to doses 300-fold higher than the recommended ADI did not result in significant adverse effects (Zhang et al., 2017). Similarly, oral administration of steviol glycosides at doses up to 1,880 mg/kg for 4 weeks caused only mild increases in oxidative damage and chromosomal abnormalities in mice, whereas no genotoxic effects were observed at doses as high as 8,000 mg/kg in vivo ().
However, emerging evidence suggests potential safety concerns under high-dose or long-term exposure conditions. In vitro studies have shown that steviol glycosides at concentrations of 10 mg/mL and 50 mg/mL significantly induced DNA damage in human lymphocytes, with damage levels approximately 62% higher than those in the negative-control group. In addition, chromatin structural changes, such as karyopyknosis, were observed, indicating a potential genotoxic effect (). Animal studies have also indicated reproductive toxicity, including reduced spermatogenesis and decreased seminal vesicle weight (). Conversely, other studies have reported beneficial effects on male reproductive function, as steviol glycosides may enhance spermatogenesis by activating sweet taste receptors, such as T1R2 and GNAT3 (Shen and Li, 2021; ). As these doses far exceed typical dietary exposure levels, further studies are needed to establish the therapeutic index of steviol glycosides in healthy volunteers, which would help define the upper boundary of their pharmacological applications.
In terms of metabolic toxicity, a 16-week mouse study using human-equivalent doses (HED) revealed that long-term stevia consumption significantly increased HbA1c, liver enzymes (ALT and AST), urea, creatinine, cholesterol, LDL, and free fatty acids. These changes are accompanied by elevated nitric oxide levels and reduced superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, which are indicative of oxidative stress and insulin resistance (). Additionally, increased water intake and diuretic activity were observed, along with renal inflammation and functional impairment. Steviol, the primary metabolite, may accumulate in the kidneys via entero-renal circulation, imposing further stress on the glomeruli and proximal tubules, consistent with previous findings of stevia-induced nephrotoxicity (Toskulkao et al., 1994). Hepatic histopathology also revealed lobular disorganization, inflammatory infiltration, and disrupted bile secretion (; ; ).
Regarding immune function, steviol glycosides have been shown to exert dose-dependent immunosuppressive effects. At concentrations of 10–50 μg/mL, CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell populations were significantly reduced by approximately 35% and 32%, respectively, suggesting disruption of immune homeostasis (). further demonstrated that stevia intake significantly elevated immunoglobulin levels (IgG, IgE, and IgA) and pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, Interleukin-8 (IL-8)) while reducing anti-inflammatory IL-10, indicating systemic immune activation. Although high-purity stevia metabolites are generally non-allergenic, individuals with known allergic predispositions may exhibit sensitivity in skin prick tests (Urban et al., 2015), warranting caution in those with a documented history of hypersensitivity ().
Although most studies emphasize the beneficial effects of Stevia on the gut microbiota, reported that chronic stevia intake may impair intestinal barrier integrity, enabling the translocation of LPS into the portal circulation, which subsequently activates hepatic innate immune responses and promotes inflammation. Additionally, steviol glycosides may inhibit the growth of beneficial species, such as Lactobacillus reuteri, while promoting pathogenic bacteria, thereby disrupting microbial homeostasis ().
Furthermore, case reports suggest that S. rebaudiana metabolites may cause decreased mean arterial pressure, bradycardia, or hypoglycemia in some individuals (; ; ). However, these effects have been disputed. In a study by , no significant changes in systolic or diastolic blood pressure were observed after 4 weeks of oral administration of steviol glycoside A at 1,000 mg/kg/day in normotensive or hypotensive individuals. Collectively, most evidence supports that steviol glycosides do not significantly affect blood pressure or glycemic homeostasis within the recommended intake limits (). Furthermore, a case report described a 54-year-old man with obstructive sleep apnea, post-transplant diabetic nephropathy, and peripheral neuropathy who developed moderate restless legs syndrome associated with daily stevia intake (used in coffee). Symptoms resolved upon discontinuation and reappeared with re-exposure (). This suggests that stevia may interfere with dopaminergic signaling and should be used with particular caution in patients with chronic comorbidities undergoing lifestyle interventions.
In conclusion, current mainstream evidence supports the safety of S. rebaudiana when used within the recommended intake range. Its favorable metabolic characteristics and non-toxicological profile provide a robust foundation for its application in functional foods and pharmaceutical preparations. Nevertheless, potential adverse effects related to immune modulation, hepatic and renal metabolism, and gut barrier function under high-dose or chronic exposure conditions warrant careful consideration of these factors. Further targeted studies are needed to assess its safety in vulnerable populations and long-term use scenarios, thus contributing to a more comprehensive safety evaluation framework.
10 Limitations
Despite the broad pharmacological activities and favorable safety profile exhibited by S. rebaudiana, current research still faces several critical limitations. On one hand, its multi-target therapeutic potential lacks validation through large-scale, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials in humans, which hinders the effective translation of preclinical findings into clinical applications. Particularly, clinical evidence remains inadequate for its traditional uses in skin regeneration, anti-fatigue, and immune enhancement, underscoring the urgent need to bridge the gap between basic research and clinical practice. On the other hand, the chemical composition of its active constituents is significantly influenced by multiple factors, such as cultivar, geographical origin, extraction method, and harvest time (; ; ), resulting in considerable pharmacological heterogeneity. Therefore, the establishment of standardized quality evaluation systems and unified dosage guidelines remains essential. In addition, most existing studies have concentrated on a narrow range of species and those of specific geographic sources, which limits the global application and systematic development and utilization of high-quality germplasm resources. To enable the scientific and sustainable development of S. rebaudiana and its related species, comprehensive global studies comparing their chemical profiles and pharmacological activities are urgently needed to elucidate the functional relationships among species and to recognize optimal selection strategies (Yi et al., 2012).
From a safety perspective, although international regulatory bodies, such as the EFSA and WHO, have confirmed its safety within the recommended dosage range, some studies have suggested that long-term or high-dose intake may pose potential risks, including immune dysregulation, reproductive toxicity, and hepatic or renal metabolic burdens. These findings highlight the necessity of systematic toxicological assessments and long-term clinical follow-ups, especially in vulnerable populations, such as children, pregnant women, and patients with chronic illnesses. Targeted safety evaluations based on population subgroups, dosage, and treatment duration are imperative.
Furthermore, current research provides limited insights into the pharmacological mechanisms of S. rebaudiana in compound medicines. In TCM, S. rebaudiana is commonly co-administered with other herbal preparations. However, the synergistic or antagonistic mechanisms of these combinations remain underexplored. Future studies should focus on dissecting metabolite interactions, pharmacological targets, and underlying mechanisms within the context of polyherbal interventions to enhance the clinical applicability and mechanistic understanding of S. rebaudiana in modern integrative medicine.
11 Conclusion and future perspectives
S. rebaudiana is a multifunctional medicinal plant with broad pharmacological activities, demonstrating significant application potential in both ethnopharmacology and evidence-based medicine. Its bioactivities, such as antidiabetic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and gut microbiota-modulating effects, are primarily attributed to its key active constituents, including steviol glycosides, flavonoids, polyphenols, and polysaccharides. In addition, S. rebaudiana exhibits favorable water solubility, thermal stability, and safety, making it particularly suitable for use in functional foods, traditional decoctions, and in pediatric medications. Its ability to cross the blood–brain barrier and modulate the gut microbiota further bolsters its potential for treating metabolic, neurological, and inflammatory disorders. Although existing studies have demonstrated the potential pharmacological activities of S. rebaudiana in various diseases, systematic clinical evidence regarding its optimal and safe dosage for different indications remains limited (). Therefore, future research should focus on clarifying the dose–response relationship, particularly in contexts such as functional foods, pediatric applications, and chronic disease management, to establish scientifically grounded and rational dosage recommendations.
In addition, future studies should focus on multi-omics integration, elucidation of synergistic mechanisms among key constituents, and pharmacokinetic profiling, particularly through advanced technologies such as UPLC-DAD-QTOF-MS, bioassay-guided screening, and computer-aided drug design (Yi et al., 2010; Yi et al., 2012; ; ). In-depth investigations into the in vivo behavior of composite phytochemicals, including extraction, absorption, biotransformation, tissue distribution, metabolism, and target engagement, are needed to advance new drug development for metabolic diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, and chronic inflammation.
Moreover, it is recommended that future research expand the diversity of biological materials by including samples from different geographical and genetic backgrounds, in order to systematically evaluate how environmental and germplasm variability influences phytochemical composition and pharmacological efficacy. This will help optimize breeding strategies and establish a robust quality control system for S. rebaudiana.
In summary, future research on S. rebaudiana should evolve toward the integration of multisource materials, multidimensional pharmacological mechanisms, multi-omics platforms, and multicomponent pharmacokinetics. Such approaches will enhance its scientific value and clinical potential as a functional food and natural therapeutic agent, while laying a theoretical foundation and shaping a practical framework for its standardized development, global application, and cross-cultural integration into modern medicine.
Statements
Author contributions
LW: Conceptualization, Writing – review and editing, Supervision, Writing – original draft, Data curation. TC: Validation, Writing – original draft. ToZ: Data curation, Writing – original draft. WH: Formal Analysis, Visualization, Writing – original draft. XW: Investigation, Writing – review and editing. CD: Writing – review and editing, Visualization. YS: Supervision, Writing – review and editing. TiZ: Writing – review and editing, Supervision. YJ: Investigation, Writing – review and editing. CZ: Writing – review and editing, Supervision. YC: Funding acquisition, Writing – review and editing. JG: Writing – review and editing. XL: Writing – review and editing.
Funding
The author(s) declare that financial support was received for the research and/or publication of this article. This work was supported by the Affiliated Hospital of Changchun University of Chinese Medicine (Chinese Medicine Evidence-based Capacity Enhancement Program 2025) and the Scientific and Technological Research Project of the Jilin Provincial Department of Education (Contract No. JJKH20230957KJ).
Acknowledgments
The authors would like to acknowledge the invaluable support and guidance provided by the Affiliated Hospital of Changchun University of Chinese Medicine in facilitating the Chinese Medicine Evidence-based Capacity Enhancement Program 2025, which significantly contributed to the foundation of this research. Special thanks are extended to the faculty and staff at Changchun University of Chinese Medicine for their constructive suggestions and encouragement throughout this study. We are also grateful to our colleagues for providing technical assistance, valuable insights, and reviewing the manuscript draft. Their expertise and feedback have greatly enhanced the quality of this work. Finally, the authors would like to thank their families for their unwavering support and understanding during the research and writing process.
Conflict of interest
The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.
Generative AI statement
The author(s) declare that no Generative AI was used in the creation of this manuscript.
Publisher’s note
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Glossary
- ADHD
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
- AGEs
Advanced Glycation End Products
- AHP
Analytic Hierarchy Process
- ALT
Alanine Aminotransferase
- AMPK
Adenosine Monophosphate-Activated Protein Kinase
- AST
Aspartate Aminotransferase
- AQP2
Aquaporin-2
- CAT
Catalase
- EFSA
European Food Safety Authority
- GCK
Glucokinase
- GLP-1
Glucagon-like Peptide 1
- GLUT4
Glucose Transporter Type 4
- GSH
Glutathione
- GSH-Px
Glutathione Peroxidase
- HPLC
High-Performance Liquid Chromatography
- HSV-1
Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1
- HSV-2
Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2
- IGF-1
Insulin-like Growth Factor 1
- IL-1β
Interleukin-1 Beta
- IL-6
Interleukin-6
- IL-8
Interleukin-8
- IκBα
Inhibitor of kappa B alpha
- IKKβ
IκB kinase β
- INSR
Insulin Receptor
- JECFA
Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives
- LPS
Lipopolysaccharide
- MAPK
Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase
- MDA
Malondialdehyde
- NADPH
Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Phosphate
- NF-κB
Nuclear Factor Kappa-Light-Chain-Enhancer of Activated B Cells
- NO
Nitric Oxide
- Nox
NADPH Oxidase
- Nrf2/Keap1
Nuclear Factor Erythroid 2-Related Factor 2/Kelch-like ECH-Associated Protein 1
- PEPCK
Phosphoenolpyruvate Carboxykinase
- PPARγ
Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Gamma
- PYY
Peptide YY
- PI3K/Akt
Phosphoinositide 3-kinase/Protein Kinase B
- ROS
Reactive Oxygen Species
- SCFA
Short-Chain Fatty Acids
- SEM
Scanning Electron Microscopy
- Sirt1
Sirtuin 1
- SOD
Superoxide Dismutase
- SREBP-1c
Sterol Regulatory Element-Binding Protein 1c
- TCM
Traditional Chinese Medicine
- TGF-β
Transforming Growth Factor Beta
- TNF-α
Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha
- VEGF
Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor
- WHO
World Health Organization
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Summary
Keywords
Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni, ethnobotany, traditional medicine applications, bioactivity, health promotion
Citation
Wang L, Chang T, Zhu T, Hu W, Wang X, Dong C, Sun Y, Zhang T, Jiang Y, Zhao C, Cui Y, Guo J and Liao X (2025) Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni as a sweet herbal medicine: traditional uses, potential applications, and future development. Front. Pharmacol. 16:1638147. doi: 10.3389/fphar.2025.1638147
Received
30 May 2025
Accepted
29 July 2025
Published
04 September 2025
Volume
16 - 2025
Edited by
Patricia Isabel Manzano Santana, ESPOL Polytechnic University, Ecuador
Reviewed by
Tao Yi, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR, China
Nafrialdi Nafrialdi, University of Indonesia, Indonesia
Katarzyna Jakimiuk, Medical University of Bialystok, Poland
Fahrauk Faramayuda, Universitas Jenderal Achmad Yani, Indonesia
Updates
Copyright
© 2025 Wang, Chang, Zhu, Hu, Wang, Dong, Sun, Zhang, Jiang, Zhao, Cui, Guo and Liao.
This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY). The use, distribution or reproduction in other forums is permitted, provided the original author(s) and the copyright owner(s) are credited and that the original publication in this journal is cited, in accordance with accepted academic practice. No use, distribution or reproduction is permitted which does not comply with these terms.
*Correspondence: Yingzi Cui, yingzi930@sina.com; Jiajuan Guo, gjj-2005@163.com; Xing Liao, okfrom2008@hotmail.com
† These authors have contributed equally to this work and share first authorship
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