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Abstract

Aim of this comprehensive review is to document the up-dated data about pharmaceutical potential of Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni with special focus on its antioxidant activity. A total of 184 research articles were reviewed and five research engines were used to collect the data. The S. rebaudiana (Asteraceae) is indigenous to South America, now cultivated in many countries worldwide to be used as a natural bio-sweetener. Various nutritionally and medically important bioactive compounds such as diterpene glycosides, fatty acids, alkaloids, tannins, saponins, anthraquinones, phenolics, flavonoids, carbohydrates, carotenoids, steroids, polysaccharides and other phytochemicals constitute chemical composition of Stevia. Owing to the presence of these substances, Stevia possessed antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, anticancer, antilarvicidal, antibacterial, antimicrobial, antifungal, antiseptic, antifertility, antihyperglycemic and genotoxic properties which adds on to its range of application in food, cosmetics and medicine industries. This review encompasses important bioactivities of S. rebaudiana emphasizing on its antioxidant activity along with a glance at its taxonomical, ecological, morphological, chemical, traditional, ethnobotanical and geographic demonstration. The study directs to further exploration of mutagenic, cytotoxic, anticancer, anti-larvicidal and anti-nematicidal effects of Stevia to declare its application safe for humans. Experimentation for production of biofuel form steviol extracts is also suggested.

Article History

Received: Oct 29, 2022; Accepted: May 15, 2023; Published: Aug 24, 2023

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