Today, I’m diving into the warm, grounding embrace of cacao – a sacred plant medicine that’s been nourishing hearts and spirits for centuries. Let’s explore why cacao is so much more than a delicious treat and how it can weave its magic into your normal routine.
A Brief History of Cacao’s Sacred Roots
Cacao has been revered for thousands of years, tracing back to the ancient Olmec, Maya, and Aztec civilizations of Mesoamerica. These cultures didn’t just see cacao as food – they honoured it as a divine connector, a bridge to the heart and spirit. Used in ceremonies, cacao was believed to open the heart, deepen intuition, and foster connection with the divine. The Aztecs even called it “yollotl eztli,” meaning “heart blood,” recognising its ability to nourish both body and soul.
Why Cacao Feels So Good
Cacao isn’t just delicious – it’s a gentle powerhouse of compounds that support our physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Here’s a peek at what makes cacao so special:
- Theobromine: This natural stimulant gently uplifts your energy without the jitters of caffeine. It’s like a warm hug for your nervous system, promoting focus and a subtle sense of vitality.
- Phenylethylamine (PEA): Often called the “love molecule,” PEA can spark feelings of joy and connection, mimicking that fluttery feeling of falling in love.
- Anandamide: Derived from the Sanskrit word for “bliss,” anandamide promotes a sense of calm euphoria, helping you melt into the moment.
- Magnesium and Antioxidants: Cacao is rich in magnesium, which soothes muscles and supports relaxation, and packed with antioxidants to nourish your body at a cellular level.
I use cacao every morning in my drink on the way to work – there’s a fabulous company called Oztibrew, who have a wide variety of coffee alternatives – many are mushroom derived and there is a dandelion and burdock (amazing for the liver!) and my current favourite, chicory and cordyceps – chicory root (as from my last blog) is a great source of inulin, which really packs a punch with its fibre content. I add milk (full fat organic or raw), cacao, cinnamon and cayenne pepper – honestly, it’s incredible, like hot chocolate with a kick and it’s all good for you! No sugar! What’s not to like!!
Enjoy!
For more information or to book a consultation, contact Flourish Natural Health now!
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