Pure cacao (also known as cocoa) is a goldmine of rich, delicious nutrition. All chocolate is made from cacao. Cacao is a nut, seed, or “bean” that is harvested from South and Central American trees. It’s always in season and can be harvested at any time. Cacao has always been highly revered. In fact, its Latin name means “food of the Gods”, and at one time it was traded like gold! There is no debate, this special plant deserves its place in our hearts.
However, not all chocolate is created equal! You may know that most commercial chocolate includes dairy, sugar, and other additives. Plus, most cacao on the market today is roasted at high heat, which destroys the beneficial nutrition from this beautiful plant. Make sure you purchase high-quality cacao when purchasing chocolate.
Medicinal Properties of Cacao
While all whole foods have beneficial nutrients, some foods, like cacao, are especially rich in nutrition and medicinal value, making them closer to a “food as medicine” or a “superfood”.
Raw cacao contains many beneficial components. It is exceptionally high in antioxidants and minerals (especially iron and magnesium). These nutrients protect the body in many ways, including benefits for the heart, bones, mental clarity, and mood. Cacao also contains “feel-good” chemicals such as tryptophan and serotonin. It can help with anemia, heart-related pathologies (emotional and physical), muscle cramping (including menstrual cramps), and stress defence.
Cacao works on the energetic “heart,” making it an ideal food for those dealing with emotional blockages related to a lack of joy or interpersonal connection.
Contraindications for Cacao
Cacao is sometimes used to boost energy, stamina, and alertness because it contains a compound similar to caffeine. For those cutting out caffeine from their diet, having trouble sleeping, or feeling overly stimulated, raw cacao may not be the best option.
Where to Buy Raw Cacao
Cacao is usually available in nibs, powder, or whole bean form. You can find cacao at most natural grocery stores and online. Make sure to buy certified organic raw cacao. While it’s not always necessary if you’re familiar with the company you’re buying from, buying cacao with fair trade certification ensures you are not contributing to the unethical farming practices still used in many countries.
Start with small amounts (1 tbsp of powder or 5-10 nibs) and increase as desired. Mix into warm or cold drinks (including smoothies for a velvety chocolate finish), or add it to raw desserts. Use your imagination and enjoy!
Recipes for Raw Cacao
Cacao Almond Milk Smoothie Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cups almond milk
- 1 ripe banana
- 1 tbs raw cacao powder
- 1 tbs coconut oil
- 3 medjool dates (pitted)
Directions:
- Blend ingredients in a high-powered blender until smooth.
Raw Chocolate Treats Recipe
These yummy treats make a sweet gift or a fun little project. There are many ways you can alter this recipe, so have fun with it. This is the simple core recipe I’ve used over the years, but feel free to try less sweetener, add your own medicinal powders and experiment with flavours.
When you’re finished, remember to keep your treats in the fridge as they melt easily.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups cacao powder
- 1 1/3 cup cacao butter
- 1 1/3 cup coconut oil (melted)
- 1/2 cup – 3/4 cup honey
- 3/4 cup ashwagandha powder
- 4 tbsp coconut creme
- a couple of pinches of salt
- cacao powder for dusting
- food-grade essential oils (peppermint, ginger)
Directions:
- Use a double boiler to melt the cacao butter and coconut oil.
- Place all ingredients in a blender with the wet ingredients first, then the dry ingredients.
- Blend gently on low until smooth.
- I like to add 10 drops of food-grade flavour. Get creative or try peppermint, ginger, or vanilla.
- Pour chocolate into moulds and place in the fridge for at least an hour.
- Dust with cacao powder.
