Cacao is a word that derives from the term Kakaw, of Mayan origin, which means bitter juice. The name of the plant is Theobroma cacao L, which means Food (Broma) of the Gods (Theo).
The origin of cocoa dates back to the Olmecs of Mexico, with evidence of its use dating back to 1500 BC This was the first culture to work with this plant, considering it a deity, using it in healing processes, but also in weddings, births and funerals, in order to allow the emotional process to flow better and more deeply.
In these Central American cultures, cacao beans were considered so valuable that they were used as currency. A slave could be exchanged for 100 seeds at the time, which was a very high price.
What is known as industrial chocolate is totally different from pure cacao, due to the addition of sugars that are poisonous to humans. This type of chocolate has only 5 to 10% cacao, the rest being added sugars. There are chocolates with other higher percentages.
Pure cacao has vasodilating properties, increasing the size of our blood vessels and allowing blood to flow more intensively in our body. The main organ of our circulatory system is the heart, which is why it has a direct influence on our heart, that is, on our emotions and feelings.
In addition, one of the important nutrients in cacao is magnesium, which is a mineral that has the characteristic of relaxing our muscles, including the heart, which is also a muscle. On the other hand, cacao helps to stimulate the production of serotonin, which regulates our sense of humor, in other words, it is a totally natural antidepressant.
It contains lots of carbohydrates that help the arteries and maintain energy in the body. It is considered a superfood, so it is highly nutritious. It is advisable in diets, as it creates satisfaction and satiety.
This plant contains theobromine which is a diuretic that helps to cleanse the kidneys, so you should drink plenty of water to avoid headaches.
Due to all these benefits, cacao is used in a ceremonial and ritual way, and it is very common in these ceremonies to feel more open, connected, lighter and happier, first with ourselves, from the center of the heart and then with others. people around us. It is part of these rituals to promote dynamics with the groups depending on the themes we create in each ritual. We consider and see cacao, not just as a plant, but as a spirit with which we can create an internal dialogue. He is kind, gentle, loving and works very subtly in opening our hearts.
