Ceremonial Cacao

 
 
 

organic Ceremonial cacao, ethically sourced from the highlands of peru

One of the medicines that I love to work with both personally and with my clients is ceremonial cacao. The cacao that I buy and share with my community is from a company that work only with indigenous growers on family-owned plots of land. The cacao is grown as part of a diverse forest ecosystem and the families they work with are able to live entirely from their forests in the Central Highlands of Peru. For these growers, our purchases contribute towards a truly regenerative economy: sharing profits, harvests, and economic gain with those in the community.

Ceremonial cacao is a pure, minimally processed form of cacao used traditionally in spiritual ceremonies, particularly in Central and South American indigenous cultures. Unlike regular chocolate or cocoa products, which have been processed and exposed to high temperatures, ceremonial cacao is harvested and fermented so that it comes to us in raw form, retaining the full range of nutrients and compounds found in the cacao bean, offering a variety of potential benefits:

1. Nutrient-Rich

  • Antioxidants: Ceremonial cacao is high in flavonoids, powerful antioxidants that help protect the body against free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.

  • Magnesium: It’s a great source of magnesium, which supports muscle relaxation, improved sleep, and overall nervous system health.

  • Iron and Potassium: It provides essential minerals like iron, which is important for oxygen transport in the blood, and potassium, which helps regulate fluid balance and nerve signals.

2. Mood Enhancement

  • Theobromine: Cacao contains theobromine, a mild stimulant similar to caffeine but with a gentler, longer-lasting effect. It can boost energy, focus, and mood without the jitteriness associated with caffeine.

  • Phenylethylamine (PEA): Often called the "love chemical," PEA can increase the levels of endorphins, which are the body’s natural feel-good chemicals.

  • Anandamide: Also known as the "bliss molecule," anandamide promotes a sense of well-being and happiness.

3. Heart Health

  • Improves Circulation: The flavonoids in ceremonial cacao can improve blood flow and circulation, supporting cardiovascular health.

  • Lowers Blood Pressure: Regular consumption may help lower blood pressure due to its vasodilatory effects.

4. Mental Clarity and Focus

  • The gentle stimulant effect of theobromine can enhance mental clarity and focus, making it ideal for meditation, creative work, or any activity requiring concentration.

5. Spiritual and Emotional Benefits

  • Heart Opener: In traditional ceremonies, cacao is considered a "heart opener," promoting feelings of love, empathy, and connection, both to self and others.

  • Grounding: It can help ground the body and mind, aiding in deeper meditation and spiritual practices.

  • Emotional Healing: Cacao ceremonies are often used to process emotions, release blockages, and cultivate self-love and compassion.

6. Culinary Versatility

  • Ceremonial cacao can be used in various recipes, from hot drinks to desserts, allowing you to enjoy its health benefits in different forms.

While ceremonial cacao offers many potential benefits, it’s essential to consume it mindfully, especially if using it in a ceremonial or spiritual context. Always start with a small amount to assess how your body responds, as it can be quite potent.

How to prepare your cacao

Making ceremonial cacao is a simple yet mindful process, emphasizing the connection between you and the cacao. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Ingredients:

  • Ceremonial cacao (typically 1-2 ounces or about 20-40 grams per person)

  • Water (1 cup or about 240 ml depending on your preference of the consistency)

  • Optional additions:

    • Natural sweeteners (e.g., honey, maple syrup - do not use refined sugars)

    • Spices (e.g., cinnamon, cayenne, vanilla)

    • Plant-based milk (for a creamier texture) - do not use dairy milk

    • A pinch of sea salt

Tools:

  • A saucepan or small pot

  • A whisk or blender

  • A knife for chopping the cacao

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Cacao:

    • Start by chopping the ceremonial cacao into small pieces if it comes in a solid block or chunk. This helps it melt more evenly.

  2. Heat the Water:

    • Pour the water into a saucepan and heat it until it's hot but not boiling. You want it warm enough to melt the cacao, around 170°F (75°C). Boiling water can cause the cacao to lose some of its beneficial properties.

  3. Mix the Cacao:

    • Add the chopped cacao to the warm water. Stir gently with a whisk until the cacao is fully melted and the mixture is smooth. If you prefer a frothy texture, you can use a blender to mix.

  4. Customize Your Brew (Optional):

    • At this point, you can add any optional ingredients like a sweetener, spices, or plant-based milk. Stir well to combine. Be mindful of not overpowering the natural flavor and benefits of the cacao.

  5. Set an Intention (Optional but Recommended):

    • If you're using the cacao ceremonially, take a moment to set an intention before drinking. This could be something you wish to focus on, release, or invite into your life. Hold this intention in your mind as you stir the cacao.

  6. Serve and Enjoy:

    • Pour the cacao into a cup. Sip it slowly, savoring the rich flavors and the moment. If you're drinking it as part of a ceremony, you might also want to spend time meditating or reflecting as you enjoy the cacao.

Tips:

  • Adjust the Ratio: You can adjust the cacao-to-water ratio to your liking. More cacao will create a thicker, richer drink, while more water will make it lighter.

  • Respect the Process: Preparing ceremonial cacao is more than just making a drink; it's a ritual that invites mindfulness and connection. Approach it with respect and intention for the best experience.

  • Pregnancy and postpartum: Cacao can be beneficial in supporting women in the perinatal stages of life, but as with anything, proceed gently if you have never drank cacao before. Have a little and see how it feels, and if in doubt then seek guidance from a trusted healthcare provider.

Enjoy your ceremonial cacao, whether for its health benefits, spiritual significance, or simply as a delicious, grounding beverage!