Cacao — Fuel & Medicine
I’d love to introduce a dear plant ally of mine, Cacao.
Theobroma Cacao (food of the Gods) is an evergreen fruiting tree in the Malvaceae family. Within the fruit pod is delicious flesh that coats the sacred seeds (beans) which are further processed into cacao and — more commonly known — cocoa. This little bean is heavily processed and turned into a commodity we know as CHOCOLATE. But more than just a commodity or delicious treat, this bean holds ancient vital life force energy ~ pure fuel & medicine for the mind, body, soul. Cacao is often sold and marketed as a “superfood” and while it truly is a superfood, it is so much more than that.
Cacao bridges the heart and mind, expands our sensual connection to life, and supports creative expression.
I learned about working with Ceremonial Cacao in Central & South America. I want to acknowledge that the indigenous people of Mesoamerica have stewarded this plant for thousands of years. These are the people from which the Ceremonial and recreational use of Cacao stems from. I am far displaced from the original rites of working with this medicine and yet, I am honored to carry knowledge of this plant and to connect with this vital source of medicine. Cacao has weaved greater health, bliss, and spiritual growth into my life.
Cacao is native to the tropical regions of Mesoamerica. In ancient Mesoamerica, Cacao was recognized as a sacred plant ally and consumed in ceremonial contexts; marking rites of passage like coming of age and marriage, honoring the dead, and connecting to the cosmos. In traditional Maya terms ‘kawkaw’ is recognized as the Spirit of Cacao.
FUN FACT: “Ceramic vessels with residues from the preparation of cacao beverages have been found at archaeological sites dating back to the Early Formative (1900–900 BC) period”
Generally, the seeds or beans are collected from the fruit pod, sun-dried and naturally fermented, hand-peeled, and lightly roasted. Then it is milled into a thick paste which is what you see below. Traditionally, Cacao paste is infused into hot water creating a thick, nutritious, and delicious brew… a HEART-OPENING ELIXIR!
Chopped Cacao Paste
Health benefits: descriptions + *herbal classifications*
Cacao is rich in essential minerals and antioxidants: calcium & magnesium, copper, zinc, selenium, potassium + a healthy fat source.
*nutritive tonic*Cacao is supportive to the heart & circulatory systems, increasing blood flow and sending life force around the body. Cacao is a vasodilator, which means that it dilates the heart valves — literally expanding the pathways to the heart, thus making it a heart-opening, transformative tonic.
*circulatory stimulant, heart-opener*Cacao is detoxifying by supporting metabolic processes throughout the elimination pathways + increasing blood flow throughout the elimination pathways
-via kidneys through urination
-via skin through sweat
-via bile -> intestines -> bowels
*diuretic, diaphoretic, hepatic*Bitter alkaloids found in cacao stimulate bile production. It awakens the liver and stimulates liver detoxification processes, supporting metabolization of toxins & metabolic waste. The liver is our most important detoxification organ. A healthy liver is crucial for healthy life.
*hepatic*
Active Constituents + Therapeutic Properties:
Theobromine - theobromine is almost identical to caffeine but it’s less stimulating mentally, and has more bronchodilator and vasodilator properties. Paired with essential minerals & antioxidants, it is FUELING the body rather than taxing the adrenals. Supports expansive energy production in the body, mind, and spirit.
Anandamide - anandamide is a fatty acid neurotransmitter that binds to cannabinoid receptors in the brain. Anandamide plays a role in euphoria, modulating neurotransmission, and cognitive function. It also induces the release of hormones & endorphins like serotonin, oxytocin, dopamine. In the ancient Sanskrit language, “ananda” means bliss.
- Heart-opener (physically &
energetically)
- Encourages euphoria
- Stimulates creativity
- Highly energizing
- Processing of emotions
Phenylethylamine (PEA) - a trace amine, increases the release of important neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin. It can help us connect to the sensations associated with intimacy and love. The action of the above mentioned chemicals give way to the aphrodisiac properties of Cacao.
Increases flow of life force energy (prana // qi) throughout the body which travels via our energy channels//chakras. As this occurs, Cacao has the ability to move stagnant energies & emotions around the body + to the heart, mind, and liver to be processed! Often, we store unprocessed emotions in our gut and liver region. Cacao has an affinity for these organ systems. This can bring up uplifting and uncomfortable emotions. When held in a safe, intentional, and explorative space — such as in ceremony, paired with self inquiry — it is a friendly and healing ally.
Contraindications & Energetic Concerns:
It’s important to note that Cacao will not work the same in everyone’s bodies. Always consult with a healthcare provider and your inner-guidance system to know if Cacao is a good fit for you.
Cacao is contraindicated for folks with high blood pressure, heart conditions, and those taking antidepressants as it can negatively interact with MAOIs
For folks with an overly dry // airy // vata-like constitution, it’s recommended to consume Cacao in moderation + combine with a fat source and warming spices.
Cacao is also high in oxalates and needs to be consumed with caution for those who tend towards kidney stones, leaky gut, and IBS.
Always balance Cacao with adequate hydration, calming nervines, and a nutritive diet.
Ways to Work with Cacao:
Personal ceremonies centered around coming back to the heart, being in the body, being creative + Community ceremonies with facilitators who are trained and permissed to facilitate.
Paired with a somatic practice such as breath work, yoga, or dance — as a way to clear stagnant emotions and energies, ground into deeper embodiment, and energize the being!
Chanting & Singing — one of my absolute favorite ways to enhance Cacao’s therapeutic benefits
Divination — connecting to the voice of the Heart // Higher Self through meditative inquiry, oracle & tarot readings, journaling
The idea is to approach Cacao with intention, presence, and curiosity. If you’re desiring to build a relationship with this medicine, I recommend creating an environment without distractions and devoting your attention to really being with her, your emotions, and your body, She is a really gentle medicine. By creating a safe space to sit with what arises without judgement or distraction, it can be quite expansive, nourishing, and liberating.
Ceremonial Cacao Recipe:
44 gs finely chopped Cacao
6-8 oz water
Pinch of cinnamon & sea salt
Honey or maple syrup to taste
* Blended // whisked well
Sipping Cacao Recipe — my current favorite:
2 tbsp finely chopped Cacao
8 oz water
1 tbsp tahini
Pinch of cinnamon, cardamom, sea salt, rose powder
Maple syrup to taste
* Blended well
I invite you to play around with different herb & spice combinations.
So there it is, folks. An ode to a beloved plant ally, Cacao, and the amazing support she weaves into our lives!
If you’d like to start working with Cacao — I’m distributing a delicious organic, single-origin Cacao from Costa Rica. Mana Cacao is tended and grown by the BriBri people of the Talamanca Region of Costa Rica, and processed by an elder chocolatier. It has a rich, creamy texture with a complex flavor profile — slightly sweet & nutty, with bitter notes of coffee. It’s only lightly roasted which protects many of the medicinal constituents & helps retain it’s creamy texture. Click the link below to purchase!
