Source: Gabriel Cousens
Stevia is the only sweetener we recommend. Fifteen times sweeter than sugar, with no calories and a glycemic index of 0, the powdered leaf of Stevia rebaudiana has recently become highly sought after as a supersweet, low-calorie addition to a low-glycemic diet. It gives a sweet taste, and does not raise the blood sugar as all the other natural sweeteners do. Unlike nutrient-empty synthetic sugar substitutes, stevia is loaded with vitamins and minerals, including magnesium, niacin, riboflavin, zinc, chromium, and selenium.

Stevia is also one of the oldest, safest, and most highly esteemed South American herbs known, with a centuries-long history of safe use. By 1921, stevia was being hailed by American trade commissioner George Brady as a “new sugar plant with great commercial possibilities.” He was so convinced that it made “an ideal and safe sugar for diabetics” that he presented it to the United States Department of Agriculture. Several modern clinical studies suggest that stevia may have the ability to lower and balance blood sugar levels, support the pancreas and digestive system, protect the liver, and combat infectious microorganisms.

NOTE from Jan: Look for the green stevia which is sold in bulk in Papaya's and is simply the dried, powdered leaf. Stevia is also available in white form in packets like sugar but how did the green plant turn white? Stevia is VERY sweet. Put a small amount on your finger and taste. When adding to recipes or to drinks, start with a 1/4 teaspoon and add more until you are satisfied. This would be a valuable plant to add to your garden.