How to Dry Stevia Plants

Native to South America, stevia is a member of the sunflower family. Only recently approved by the FDA for general use instead of as a food supplement, the leaves of the stevia plants can now be used as a sugar replacement. Stevia leaves can be used either fresh or dried and the perennial plant will grow where temperatures remain above 50 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant can also be grown as a houseplant year-round.

Things You'll Need

• Scissors
• Paper towels
• Plate or tray

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Cut the stevia leaves from the plant before the blooms appear. Only the leaves from the plant are used.

   • 2

     Lay two to three paper towels on a plate or tray.

   • 3

     Spread the leaves on the paper towels in a single layer.

   • 4

     Cover the leaves with one or two more paper towels.

   • 5

     Set the plate or tray in a warm, dry area and allow the leaves to dry for a week or more, or until the leaves are completely dry and brittle.