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Nature's
Cacao
Our beautiful cacao is sourced from small peruvian farms.
A significant portion of the profits from our cacao sales is reinvested into the community to support sustainable farming practices, allowing us to share and spread God’s love across the world.
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We are committed to ensuring that our cacao comes from ethical sources, supporting farms that are both sustainable and well-cared for, so that we can continue to bless others through our actions.
Cacao Benefits
Cacao is known as one of the worlds best superfoods so can support you in many areas of your life
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• reduces tiredness and fatigue
• is a natural antidepressant
• lowers blood pressure
• contains 23% of natural proteins
• is 33% fibre which promotes a healthy gut
• contains flavonoids which promotes a healthy brain
• is a natural antioxidant
• it’s beneficial natural compounds, including serotonin create a ‘feel good’ euphoria
• is the highest plant based source of iron
• contains more calcium than cows milk
SUPPORT
What is Cacao?
All our cacao is 100% raw, pure cacao.
Nothing added, nothing taken away.
Cacao is a powerfulsuperfood plant, packed with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants and flavonoids that heal, protect and supercharge your mind body and soul.
Our Cacao paste is crafted from the finest Peruvian Criollo bean, ethically sourced and grown sustainably in the heart of the Peruvian Amazon. The best chocolate in the world is made from Peruvian Criollo Cacao beans.
It's full of fibre and protein, which support digestion and build muscle, respectively, booming with antioxidants, trace minerals like potassium and magnesium, which support neurological and metabolic function.
Cacao has one of the highest planet based sources of Magnesium, that our brain needs to function well.
What makes our cacao, ceremonial grade?
Our cacao is crafted from the finest Peruvian Criollo bean, ethically sourced and grown sustainably in the heart of the Peruvian Amazon. The difference between ceremonial grade cacao and normal cacao is that our cacao has been minimally processed, organically grown and harvested in small batches.
Does the cacao contain cacao butter?
Yes. All of the naturally-occurring cacao butter in our cacao beans is present in our Ceremonial Grade Cacao Paste. Our Cacao has nothing added and nothing taken away. Our whole, hand-toasted and hand-peeled cacao beans are ground into a 100% pure paste
Does cacao contain caffeine and will it keep me awake at night?
Ceremonial grade cacao is very low in caffeine, a small fraction of that found in a cup of coffee. Cacao contains a sister chemical compound called theobromine, which is also a naturally occurring stimulant, but one that creates greater mental focus and creativity, without the jittery after effects of caffeine. The experience of each person is different when consuming our cacao in the evening. If you find yourself awake past your normal bedtime, consider using this alert focused time to do some deeper inner work and creative processing of whatever emotions or inspiration arises for you.
Is your cacao certified organic & fairtrade?
Our Cacao is not "certified" organic or fair trade by any third parties. Although our personal beliefs is that we are organic, raw and fairtrade in that we support our farmers and that the cacao we bring to you is ethically sourced. It has been grown sustainabily in the heart of the amazon.
Is cacao safe for pets?
*Warning!! Please keep Cacao safely out of reach of all pets, as many animals can not properly metabolize theobromine which may result in severe illness or death*
What is the best place to store cacao?
Your cacao should be stored in a cool, dry area. I like to keep mine in a glass container but it can also be stored in the brown bags you purchase it in and popped in your kitchen cupboard for safe keeping, just like your tea or coffee.
Where does it come from?
Cacao, often referred to as the “food of the god,” has its roots in God's beautiful creation.
The cacao tree (Theobroma cacao) is native to the rainforests of Central and South America, where it thrives in rich, fertile soil. The scientific name for chocolate is Theobroma cacao which translates “Food of the God.”
It is said that God, in His infinite wisdom, created cacao to nourish and delight His people. The seeds of the cacao tree—what we know as cacao beans—are harvested from large, vibrant pods that grow directly from the trunk and branches of the tree.
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In the creation story, on the third day, God separated the waters and caused dry ground to appear. Then, in His perfect design, He created the vegetation—each plant bringing forth its own kind. Among these plants was the cacao tree, a beautiful part of God’s creation. This humble tree, my friends, is the source of the beloved chocolate plant!
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Just as God saw that everything He created was good, we recognize the cacao tree as another testament to His goodness, providing nourishment and joy for all who partake in its fruit. From the rich soil to the sweet cocoa beans, cacao is part of God’s abundant provision, reminding us of His love and care in every bite.
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The rich, deep flavor of cacao has been cherished for centuries, dating back to the ancient civilizations of the Mayans and Aztecs, who used it both as a sacred offering and a nourishing drink.
In their reverence, they saw cacao as a gift from God, a symbol of life, vitality, and that it served as a metaphorical bridge between earth and heaven.
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Today, cacao continues to be a blessing, bringing people together and nourishing both body and spirit. We recognize it as part of God’s generous provision, meant not only to be enjoyed but also to promote sustainability and community care, as we are disciples of the earth He entrusted to us.
CACAO & YOUR HEALTH
Cacao is a bitter:
100% pure cacao is bitter. As with any bitter, too much can make you nauseous. Most drink less than 2 to 3 ounces (57 to 85 grams) of cacao a day. Over time, as your body attunes to the cacao, you may find that you need less cacao to feel the full effect. Less can be more. Pay attention to what your body is telling you.
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Antidepressants:
Depending on dosage, SSRI antidepressants and anti-psychotics are not compatible with the MAOI's (Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors) in cacao. Low to average doses should be ok, people on higher doses should drink less cacao. Check with your doctor. This is all down to personal preference.
At Healing Hikes, we are not medical professionals so would always reccommend you checking before consuming any form of plant medicine that may effect your current medication.
Although we do encourage to explore cacao and its natural forms of anti depressants that could support you in coming away from mainstream medication.
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Heart Rate:
Our cacao will raise your heart rate slightly. If an increase in your heart rate could cause a medical problem, drink less. Check with your doctor.
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Blood Pressure:
Many folks with low blood pressure tell Keith that our cacao (low-caffeine) stabilizes their heart and helps them. Check with your doctor.
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Other substances with your cacao:
Our cacao increases blood flow to the brain by 30-40%… so any other substances in your blood will be amplified.
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Caffeine:
The caffeine content of cacao varies widely among cacao varieties and cacao makers. We encourage you to test this for yourself whilst also knowing your bodies limits and how sensitive it may be to caffeine.
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Pregnant and nursing women:
Most babies, in or out of the womb, do really well with their mum consuming our cacao. About 1oz (28gm) in the first 2 trimesters, about 2/3oz (20gm) dose in the last trimester. There are a few fetuses and breast-fed babies that do not like cacao... it is not a problem, but they will let you know so start easy and find what is right for you. We recommend 2/3oz (20gm) while breast feeding until it is clear how the infant reacts.
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Children:
Use less than an adult dose, according to the child’s body weight. It depends on the child. They will let you know. Children who have had an appropriate amount of cacao are more focused.
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Pets:
Real cacao contains compounds that can kill dogs, cats, parrots, and horses. Do not let them eat it and be careful when you have it around them.
Disclaimer: Cacao is a natural form of anti-depressant, those who are currently taking any form of medication which contains MAOIs and some SSRIs should speak to a medical professional before consuming Cacao.