Cacao trees have cocoa bean seeds and are found in Central and South America. The only state in the US that supports cacao production is Hawaii. A Mayan tradition translates it as heart blood. Cacao is the name of the raw form of cocoa. Once Cacao it is processed it as heart blood. Cacao is the name of the raw form of cocoa. Once Cacao is processed it is called Cocoa. Cacao nibs are a result of crushing the cacao beans. Both cacao powder and cacao nibs are packed full of nutrients and powerful plant compounds which can benefit your health in many ways. There are 2 forms; roasted and unroasted.

Types of Cacao plant:

Nacional:   The chocolates made from these types are creamy, rich, and have little bitterness. Peru origination. Purest.

Forastero: It has a variety of flavored cacao. Hardier and reliable strain. Amazon basin origination.

Criollo: It’s a pure variety. It has softer pods. Used for chocolate making. Mild in taste. Aromas somewhat are like caramel, tobacco, fruits, and nuts. Amazon basin origination.

Trinitario: Named for its Mayan origins, is found in Colombia and Central America. It is also used for chocolate making. Least Pure.

How cacao beans are processed:

Fermentation: The beans are typically covered with banana leaves for two to six days, turning them several times during fermentation in which the microbes feed on pulps. This gives the bean flavor and aroma.

Drying: After fermentation, cacao has a lot of moisture and it needs to be dried well for several days.

Roasting: It helps in developing the chocolate flavor and sweetness.

Crushing: In which cacao shells and nibs are separated.

Grinding: Cacao nibs are ground to make a liquor.

Uses of Cacao:

Cacao and its related products have an essential place in health care, food variations, smoothies, deserts, tea, etc.

Nutrients of Cacao:

Protein, minerals, vitamins, fibers, saturated fat, and carbohydrates.

Benefits and medicinal value of Cacao (Powder or raw form):

It’s a medicinal plant with tremendous health benefits. The theobromine that it has, is known as the “food of God” which defines the value of physical, mental, and spiritual benefits. Let’s examine these many benefits.

Cacao and blood: Cacao’s high level of magnesium and antioxidants helps lower blood pressure, reduce insulin resistance, arterial benefits, prevents blood clots and increase oxygen in blood.

 Cacao and Cholesterol:  Cacao lowers harmful LDL cholesterol and will boost your good HDL cholesterol.

 Cacao and the brain:

Cacao rich in flavonols are known for improving blood flow to the brain, which can significantly improve mental focus and attention span. Cacao Improves blood flow throughout the body which helps lower blood pressure, helping you feel more relaxed and calmer. It also releases feel-good hormones (endorphins and dopamine).

 Cacao  and heart: Cacao works in lowering the cholesterol level, therefore, lowering  the risk of a heart attack. Good for heart functioning and circulation. More  consumption of cacao can help prevent cardiovascular diseases.

Cacao  and skin: Cacao keeps the skin hydrated and increases the blood flow to the skin which results in glowing, healthy-looking skin and improves skin complexion while smoothening out the blemishes and redness. Cacao powder can be used topically as well, and it’s excellent for sensitive skin.

 Cacao  and hair: The sulfur and protein of cacao are good for healthy hair growth. It strengthens the structure and awakens inactive follicles. Great for hair loss.

Cacao  and aging:Research has shown that cacao aids in decreasing epigenetic aging and inflammation. It reduces wrinkles, builds collagen, and renews the skin cells.

Cacao  and spirit: Mayan tradition has a sacred connection to cacao, calling it “food of the Gods” and used in a ritual cacao ceremony that is considered “heart opening”. It is considered to have powers to open the heart chakra.

Cacao  and sleep: Cacao contains serotonin and tryptophan. Both these have properties that can help calm and sooth you for a good nights sleep.

Cacao  and kidney: Cacao enhances blood vessel function, and has been shown to be beneficial for patients with kidney failure.

Uses cacao

Cacao in weight loss: Cacao has theobromine and caffeine which can raise your metabolism and lessens cravings, which helps you in weight control.

 Cacao and arthritis: Studies have shown cacao is beneficial in reducing arthritis related inflammation.

 Cacao as healing chemicals: Cocoa powder has over 300 chemical compounds, many helping in disease prevention. They helps in the reduction of cell damage and can help prevent so major diseases like Alzheimer’s, cancer, etc.

Taste of Cacao:

A earthy, slightly bitter, nut-like taste.

 Intake amount:

A day’s intake must not exceed 40 grams of raw cacao.

Healthiest form of Cacao is Dark Chocolate

The healthiest version, the most natural and purest form of chocolate is flavonoid-filled cacao bean (cocoa) which is dark chocolate (free from additives) because it helps in reducing appetite and weight loss, uplifts mood, and has higher antioxidants. You want your dark chocolate to contain from 55% to 100% pure cacao and unequivocally no sugar.

Myth buster:

Now let’s bust some myths like:

Chocolates have no nutrient value.

Chocolates give you a cavity.

Chocolates are bad for health.

Chocolates will put on your weight.

Chocolates mean high caffeine.

Chocolates are bad for the heart.

Chocolates are bad for diabetic patients.

Let’s be friends with Cacao and its most appreciated product called dark chocolate.

Get close to nature and your body will thank you!