• A new study by Indian scientists have revealed therapeutic properties of candy leaf (Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni) for diseases like endocrine, metabolic, immune, and cardiovascular diseases, because of its effect on cellular signaling systems. 

• Candy leaf is known for its natural non-caloric sweetening characteristics. It is a member of the Asteraceae family.

• At the Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST) in Guwahati, an autonomous institute of Department of Science and Technology, a team of researchers did pioneering research on Stevia’s medicinal properties, effects on cellular signalling mechanisms to prove Assam’s Stevia’s therapeutic qualities. 

• Their multimodal strategy integrated network pharmacology with in vitro and in vivo techniques, showing that the plant used phosphorylation of Protein Kinase C (PKC) to inhibit a crucial cellular signalling route.

• PKC is connected to inflammatory, autoimmune, endocrine, and cardiovascular illnesses. 

• Stevia suppresses PKC phosphorylation, which alters downstream pathways that cause inflammation, a significant cause of endocrine metabolic and cardiovascular issues. 

• This study shows Stevia’s promise in this field for the first time. The study also found that active stevia molecules strongly interact with AMPK, highlighting the need for additional research.

• This work published in the journal Food Bioscience revealed Stevia’s potential and identified new targets for immunological endocrine and cardiovascular problems. 

• It could have therapeutic effects on diabetes, type 1, type 2, autoimmune diabetes, pre-diabetes, chronic inflammation related autoimmune disease — rheumatoid arthritis, chronic kidney diseases and cardiovascular diseases like hypertension, vasculopathy and so on.

• The study illuminates an undiscovered facet of Stevia, underlining the necessity of creative tactics and scientific data to support traditional therapeutic practices.

• Assam exports Stevia worldwide. The North Eastern Council also highlighted Stevia cultivation’s potential to help the northeast Indian economy due to high demand and use.

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