Cacao; natures heart warmer

Cozy, chocolatey, heart warming, the kind of drink you want to share with people you love. Cacao has recently been popping up in health foods, ceremonial circles, and in my morning routine. I was offered my first cup this past fall and immediately felt a deep connection. After months of exploration Im here to share what I’ve learned, how you can use it, and what Cacao can do for you.

Cacao has been around since 1500 B.C when it was first discovered by the Olmecs in Mesoamerica. It served many functions but has been primarily used a food source. Specifically named Theobroma Cacao it translates from greek literally to “food of the gods.” Many indigenous tribes across the world have considered Cacao as a sacred offering. The tree is said to house the spirit of the gods, the beans grow directly from the trunk linking it straight to the heart.

Medicinally cacao is a nutrient dense superfood. Cacao contains the highest concentration of antioxidants and magnesium of any food in the world, rich in chromium, theobromine, manganese, zinc, copper, iron, vitaminC, omega-6 fatty acids, tryptophan, serotonin, and more.

Cacao is a highly effective natural energy enhancer and aphrodisiac. Cacao contains PEA, a chemical that we produce in our bodies when we fall in love. PEAs also play a role in increasing focus and alertness. 

Anandamide is an endorphin that the human body naturally produces after exercise. Anandamide is known as the bliss chemical as it is released while we are feeling joy. It has only been found in one plant - cacao. Source

Because of the high demand for Cacao it is difficult to find quality sources. Many companies use hybrids that require more fertilizer and pesticides to grow. Making sure you are buying organic, fairly sourced product is important for health and spirit.

Personally I use Anima Mundi Apothecary in Brooklyn, NY. There are more brands highly regarded like Keiths Cacao and Firefly Drinking Chocolate.

Recipe for Cacao;

Begin with using 1 tbs of Cacao you can add more if you desire but first start small and see how your body reacts. Blend with Hot water, any milk of choice (I like macadamia or almond for creaminess), add a sweeter like agave, honey, or monk fruit. Add chili peppers, dash of cayenne, or cinnamon. Use coconut oil to help bind. Use a high powered blender to create MAGIC!

I pair my Cacao with other plant medicine like Ashwaghanda, Macuna Puriens, Mushrooms, and Plant Collagen. It is a lovely vessel for carrying the …not so pleasant tastes of the others.

I find myself drawn to the beautiful energy that my Cacao mix brings to the day. I feel focused, warm, loving, and creative. There are no jittery side effects or running at the speed of light. I honor the sacredness of the chocolate so I limit my consumption (as opposed to multiple cups of coffee). Each one is made special. It is a joy to share with friends and in circles. Together we honor and drink slowly, letting our body absorb the plant medicine, opening hearts and sharing experience.

I look forward to many more cacao circles and hearing about yours too!

<3 Big HUGS!