Organic Way Stevia Leaf Cut & Sifted (Stevia Rebaudiana) - Kosher & USDA Certified | Non-GMO & Gluten Free | Natural Sweetener | 100% Raw from India (1 lbs / 16 oz)

I got this product because I thought it would be a natural way to sweeten beverages and foods. Also, I've read a few early studies about health benefits from stevia leaf consumption (although, at this point, nothing conclusive). However, upon further research, I found from WebMD, "The FDA approved only the purified form of stevia, called stevioside, as safe to use. Products considered safe contain words in their ingredient list such as stevia extract or Stevia rebaudiana. If you see whole stevia leaves or crude stevia extracts at your local natural foods store, don’t buy them. The FDA says it doesn’t have enough information about their potential impact on your health, including kidney and cardiovascular problems." Healthline: "The FDATrusted Source says stevia glycosides, such as Reb-A, are “generally recognized as safe.” They haven’t approved whole-leaf stevia or crude stevia extract for use in processed foods and beverages due to a lack of safety information.There’s concern that raw stevia herb may harm your kidneys, reproductive system, and cardiovascular system. It may also drop blood pressure too low or interact with medications that lower blood sugar." and "Whole-leaf stevia isn’t approved for commercial use, but you can still grow it for home use. Despite a lack of research, many people claim whole-leaf stevia is a safe alternative to its highly refined counterpart or table sugar.While adding a raw stevia leaf to a cup of tea now and then is unlikely to cause harm, you shouldn’t use it if you’re pregnant.Until research determines whether whole-leaf stevia is safe for everyone, get your doctor’s approval before using it regularly, especially if you have a serious medical condition such as diabetes, heart disease, or high blood pressure."So, based on this information/research, I opted not to test/use this stevia leaf product.I will note that i'm impressed with the organic certifications from various offical agencies. This does merit commendation. And, there.

Works well in a tea ball / tea strainer with various teas added. It can also be ground further in a spice mill to use in cooking or making. Product came well sealed and fresh.