The Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni plant was discovered more than 1,500 years ago by the native Guarani people, growing in clumps of two or three along the edges of the rainforests of Paraguay. In the beginning, the natives used the leaves for their medicinal benefit, to freshen their breath and to sweeten and mellow the strong taste of herbal yerba mat tea. For more information on the stevia plant, including scientific research and health benefits, visit Stevia University.