Diterpene glycosides, also known as stevioside, are sweet compounds naturally found in chrysanthemums. It is a diterpene compound that contains two parts in its structure: glycoside and diterpene. Diterpenes are natural products with special fragrance and biological activity, while glycosides are compounds containing sugar. Stevioside has a very high sweetness, about 200-300 times that of sucrose. Due to its low calorie content, no tooth decay and little effect on blood sugar, it is widely used as a natural sweetener. It is also believed to have a variety of biological activities such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial, which are beneficial to human health. Stevioside is usually used in food and beverages in the form of extraction as a natural sweetener. In some countries, stevioside is approved for consumption by diabetics and dieters. However, some people may have allergic reactions to stevioside and should be used with caution.
Properties of Diterpene Glycosides
Steviosides, like other diterpene glycosides, consist of a diterpene glycoside core attached to a glucose molecule. This molecular arrangement gives these compounds their characteristic sweet taste, while also affecting their solubility and stability in various formulations.
- Stability and Thermostability
A notable feature of diterpene glycosides, including steviol glycosides, is their stability under different conditions. These compounds are resistant to high temperatures, making them suitable for use in cooking and baking applications, whereas other sweeteners may degrade.
In addition to being a natural alternative to sugar, diterpene glycosides such as stevioside have potential health benefits. Studies have shown that they have favorable effects on blood sugar levels and blood pressure regulation, making them a valuable addition to the arsenal of functional food ingredients.
Applications of Diterpene Glycosides
Sweeteners
Steviosides are a well-known diterpene glycoside known for their intense sweetness and minimal caloric impact. This natural sweetener has gained popularity as a sugar substitute in various food and beverage products, catering to health-conscious consumers who want to reduce their sugar intake without compromising on taste.
Therapeutic Potential
In addition to their sweetening properties, diterpene glycosides such as steviosides also have potential medicinal value. Studies have shown that steviosides may have anti-diabetic properties and help regulate blood sugar and insulin sensitivity. In addition, their role as antioxidants has aroused interest in their potential application in combating diseases related to oxidative stress.
Flavor Enhancers
Diterpene glycosides not only add sweetness to foods and beverages, but also bring unique flavors. They are widely used ingredients in the food industry to enhance the taste of products while avoiding the disadvantages brought by artificial sweeteners.
References
- Chusova, Alla, et al. Optimization of extraction parameters of diterpene glycosides from stevia leaves by mathematical modeling. BIO Web of Conferences. Vol. 103. EDP Sciences, 2024.
- Perera, Wilmer H., and James D. McChesney. Approaches toward the separation, modification, identification and scale up purification of tetracyclic diterpene glycosides from Stevia rebaudiana (Bertoni) bertoni. Molecules 2021, 26(7): 1915.
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