Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni, source of a high-potency natural sweetener: A comprehensive review on the biochemical, nutritional and functional aspects

► Steviarebaudiana B. is a low-calorie sweetener 300 times sweeter than saccharose. ► S. rebaudiana B. also contains folic acid, vitamin C and essential amino acids. ► Stevia possesses therapeutic, antioxidant, antimicrobial and antifungal properties. ► Stevioside and rebaudioside A are two thermostable sweeteners of S. rebaudiana. ► Stevia as a new agricultural crop may satisfy consumer's demand for natural foods.