CACAO - “FOOD OF THE GOD"S”
Cacao Fruit
Cacao, the bean-like seed from the cacao tree, is best known as the primary ingredient in chocolate. However, cacao itself is a powerhouse of nutrients and offers many potential health benefits. Cacao has been used for thousands of years for its numerous health benefits. The Mayans consider cacao to be "the food of the gods" and is considered a powerful plant medicine that can balance the mind, body, and spirit. In this blog post, we will explore the various ways in which cacao can benefit your health.
Benefits of cacao:
High in antioxidants. Cacao is an excellent source of antioxidants, which are compounds that protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can harm your cells, leading to chronic diseases. The antioxidants in cacao, including flavanols and polyphenols, can help neutralize these harmful molecules, reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
May improve heart health. Several studies have shown that cacao may be beneficial for heart health. The flavanols in cacao can improve blood flow and lower blood pressure, which can reduce the risk of heart disease. Additionally, cacao can help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and increase HDL (good) cholesterol levels, further promoting heart health.
Can boost mood and cognitive function. Cacao contains several compounds that can affect brain function and mood. One of these compounds is theobromine, which can improve mood and cognitive performance by increasing blood flow to the brain. Additionally, cacao contains phenylethylamine, a compound that can increase the production of endorphins, the feel-good chemicals in your brain.
May reduce inflammation. Inflammation is a natural response that occurs when your body is fighting off infection or injury. However, chronic inflammation can contribute to the development of many diseases. The flavanols in cacao have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce chronic inflammation in the body.
Can improve skin health. The antioxidants in cacao can also benefit your skin. Free radicals can damage skin cells, leading to premature aging and other skin problems. However, the antioxidants in cacao can help protect your skin from this damage, improving its overall health and appearance.
Here are some Ayurvedic perspectives on the health benefits of cacao:
Balances the doshas. In Ayurveda, every individual has a unique constitution, or dosha, which is a combination of the elements air, fire, water, earth, and ether. The three doshas are Vata, Pitta, and Kapha, and an imbalance in any of these doshas can cause illness. Cacao is considered to be a tridoshic food, meaning it can balance all three doshas and promote overall health and well-being.
Increases Ojas - Ojas is a subtle substance in the body that represents vitality, immunity, and overall health. In Ayurveda, cacao is considered to be a powerful ojas-building food, meaning it can increase vitality and strengthen the immune system. Consuming cacao in moderation can help boost energy, improve mental clarity, and support overall health.
Promotes Agni. Agni, or digestive fire, is essential for good digestion and overall health. Cacao is considered to be a digestive stimulant and can help promote healthy digestion. It is also believed to improve absorption and assimilation of nutrients in the body, making it an excellent addition to a healthy diet.
Soothes the mind. In Ayurveda, the mind is considered an important component of overall health. Cacao is considered to be a calming and soothing food that can promote mental clarity and reduce stress and anxiety. It is also believed to promote feelings of joy and happiness, making it an excellent mood enhancer.
Nourishes the tissues. In Ayurveda, the body is made up of seven tissues, or dhatus, which include plasma, blood, muscle, fat, bone, bone marrow, and reproductive tissue. Cacao is believed to nourish these tissues, promoting overall health and vitality. It is also believed to have a rejuvenating effect on the body, promoting longevity and youthfulness.
Cacao is more than just a delicious ingredient in chocolate. It offers many potential health benefits, including high levels of antioxidants, improved heart health, boosted mood and cognitive function, reduced inflammation, and improved skin health. It is considered a tridoshic food that can balance the mind, body, and spirit, promote ojas, support digestion, soothe the mind, and nourish the tissues. So, go ahead and indulge in some dark chocolate or add cacao to your morning ritual for a tasty and healthy boost!
Cacao Drink Recipe - Food of the Gods
Ingredients:
Raw ceremonial cacao
Hot waters
optional: 1 tsp of honey
optional: herbs of choice
I like,
1/8 tsp Ashwagandha
1/8 tsp Shatavari
1/8 tsp of rose powder
Pinch of saffron
Instructions:
Mix 8-12oz of hot water with 1-2TBSP of raw cacao in a blender
add optional herbs and honey of choice
Blend on high for 36 seconds (a divisor of 108)
pour into your favorite mug
Ceremony Instructions
Before drinking, Sit with the cacao and notice the felt sense of being in its presence, notice the smells, the warmth, the energy and Spirit of the plant.
Hold it to your heart and call upon an intention
Whisper your name 3 times into the cup, then whisper your intention 3 times into the cup.
Begin to sip on the cacao. Notice the tastes and flavors, the texture and warmth. Follow the sensation as the cacao pours into your body and stomach.
Again notice the smells, the warmth, the energy and Spirit of the plant and how it interacts with your body.
Meditate on the field of the heart
Where to Purchase Cacao?
My favorite cacao company is Embue Cacao.
get 10% off with code: ZAIDY
must use the following link
Disclaimer: Recommendations, not medical advise. The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before using any herbs or supplements, especially if you have a medical condition or are taking medication. The author and publisher of this article are not responsible for any adverse reactions, effects, or consequences resulting from the use of any of the suggestions or preparations discussed in this article."