PHYSICAL BENEFITS

Cacao brings natural stress relief, because it contains potassium, phosphorus, copper, iron, zinc, and magnesium which contribute to cardiovascular health. Cacao has the ability to trigger the release of dopamine and the endorphin phenylethylamine, both of which soothe the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome and depression. Scientific research now confirms that chocolate helps to relieve emotional stress.

Most importantly, it contains anandamide, the bliss molecule. Anandamide is an endogenous ligand that your body produces when you feel a workout “high.” It is a natural pleasure molecule that fits into the cannabinoid receptor sites of the cells of the nervous system.

Pure Cacao also contains powerful antioxidants along with a significant amount of chromium, which balances blood sugar levels. It increases the blood flow to the brain, creating more mental agility, awareness and focus.

EMOTIONAL AND SPIRITUAL BENEFITS

Cacao is a powerful plant medicine and has many amazing, life-affirming qualities that support health and psychological well-being. She is a powerful Plant Medicine that helps us to release emotional blockages that no longer serve us, find forgiveness in ourselves and others, and shows us the way forward if we are stuck, or afraid of making necessary life changes. It also enables us to access stuck emotions, conditionings, patterns of behaviour and addictions that are buried deep in the unconscious.

Historically, cacao has always been considered a very powerful aphrodisiac, exotic food, and medicine, by the Mesoamerican and South American cultures, such as the Mayans, Aztecs and Spanish conquistadors. Its Greek name Theobroma Cacao literally means ‘Food of the Gods, Thea (god), Broma (food), with the Maya word Ka’kau.’

Benefits are found in the neurotransmitter modulating agents that act as natural antidepressants. Its high valeric acid content blocks the stress hormones, while triggering the release of dopamine, anandamide and the endorphin phenylethylamine, all of which are known as the ‘bliss molecules’. Cacao also contains the essential amino acid tryptophan, which increases production of serotonin, an important brain chemical that helps us remain positive and happy. These neurotransmitters also remain in the bloodstream longer after ingesting cacao, creating a natural antidepressant benefit, while the theobromine and caffeine content boosts energy levels and relieves fatigue.

Chocolate! who would have thought this humble confectionery is such a powerful medicine in its natural form? It’s time to share the love!

Our Cacao is made from organically grown cacao beans, there is nothing added to the mixture - this is pure 100% ceremonial-grade Cacao.

You can use it daily as a substitute for coffee by making a hot chocolate drink using about 20-25gms per day of the Cacao depending on your needs. It can be made with water or milk and you can add chilli powder, nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves, or whatever you desire to spice it up. Cacao Liquor is naturally bitter and is best sweetened with honey, agave syrup or maple syrup.

Cacao also makes it a versatile cooking ingredient and can be added to any sauces, curries, stews and casseroles to bring a depth and richness of flavour a la Mexican cooking - called Mole

For those chocolatiers and pastry chefs amongst you, you can alchemise our Cacao Liquor into interesting chocolate and deserts.

For Ceremonial Use

You need 42gms of Cacao Liquor and 250ml water per person.

Bring water to the boil and once it is boiling add the cacao and stir until it dissolves, bring the water to simmer and stir till the mixture has thickened. It is advised not to frequently use Cacao ceremonially as 42gms can be heavy on the adrenals after a while.

Our Cacao keeps for a year when stored in a cool dark cupboard (but airtight) and much longer if stored in a freezer.

We recommend experimenting with the Cacao Liquor and nurture your own relationship with this amazing, versatile and delicious plant medicine.