About Cacao

Cacao is a gentle plant medicine that has been revered by Mesoamerican cultures for thousands of years. In fact, it was held on such a pedestal that the name of the Cacao tree, Theobroma Cacao, actually means 'Food of the Gods.' This reverence was rightfully earned as the cacao bean is full of amazing constituents such as magnesium, theobromine, healthy fats, and anandamide to name a few.

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Cacao possesses mood-enhancing properties and is a great facilitator for heart-opening experiences. 

Cacao is a great source of four scientifically-proven natural happiness chemicals including serotonin, tryptophan, tyrosine and phenylethylamine. These neurotransmitters and brain nutrients are associated with feelings of calmness, happiness, and well being.

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Cacao also contains an ingredient called ‘anandamide’, which is a molecule that actually creates a feeling of euphoria and bliss. Cacao nibs or raw cacao contain the highest levels of anandamide. Anandamide helps to increase neurogenesis, which is the formation of new nerve or brain cells. This also helps to create both an anti-anxiety and antidepressant effect. In addition to the anandamide, cacao contains compounds that help to inhibit the breakdown of the anandamide in the body, helping to increase its uptake and prolonging that feeling of bliss.

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Cacao also boosts the body’s natural production of serotonin, that neurotransmitter that creates a calm and happy feeling. Most prescription antidepressants contain ingredients to maintain and prolong the body’s serotonin levels, but of course, Cacao is a much safer natural antidepressant.

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Other proposed benefits of cacao may include, relief from high blood pressure, constipation, diabetes, chronic fatigue syndrome, and various neurodegenerative diseases. It is beneficial for wound healing, and skincare, and may help improve cardiovascular and brain health. It also may help in treating copper deficiency. 

 

Its unique combination of physical constituents is a direct manifestation of its spiritual essence which is like that of a supportive friend. Cacao is here to support us with whatever we hold in our minds. At our ceremonies, we are both partners to and students of the plant medicine teacher, Cacao. With the support of Cacao, we can begin nurturing our own growth and sense of connectivity. 

 

Please note that Cacao is a very benign plant medicine that is extremely safe to consume and it is not psychoactive. Also, these ceremonies are not a replacement for professional medical help so if you have a serious health condition please consult a medical professional.