Cacao Beans, Nature's Raw Chocolate!
Cacao beans are the seeds or "nuts" of the cocoa (chocolate) fruit, an evergreen tree native to tropical forest regions of Central and South America. 
Cacao or "Theobroma cacao" literally translates as "food for the gods" and was highly revered in the ancient Mayan and Aztec civilizations where it was used as a form of monitary exchange.
Raw Cacao vs Cooked Chocolate
All chocolate comes from cacao beans! These beans, between 20-60, are nestled inside the cacao fruit contained within a hard shelled pod. All chocolate in the form of chocolate bars or cocoa is cooked. When cacao is cooked many of it's benefits are destroyed along with mostly all of it's rich nutritional value. Also, when cacao is heated the oils and fat within the beans turn rancid and become dangerous to the body. Cacao can be eaten in it's "raw" state, however, so you get the best of both nutrition and flavor. Really, the best part about raw chocolate, besides it's taste, is that you get to take in powerful amounts of nutrients, so that you can feed your body those missing links to superhero health and well being!
Check out our super chocolate milk recipe and other cacao recipes for ideas! Raw Chocolate = Super Nutrition:~Antioxidants - highest source of any food known!!!
~Magnesium - one of the highest, if not "thee" highest, sources of this alkaline mineral~Iron - has over 300% of the U.S. RDA per 1 ounce serving ~Zinc - activates enzyme production and promotes healthy immune system ~Vit C - one ounce of cacao nibs meets 21% of U.S. RDA ~Omega Fatty Acids - contains omega-6 fatty acids, essential to health and brain function ~Copper - important mineral for protecting the nerves, bones and heart ~Manganese - cacao is abundant in this trace mineral, aiding connective tissues, bones and sex hormones ~Chromium - helps in metabolism and regulates blood sugar levels ~Fiber - great source that helps strenghthen intestines and acts as a natural laxative 
Raw Chocolate Bliss!Not only does cacao offer an incredible array nourishment on many levels, chocolate beans also cause the release of certain neurotransmitters and phyto-chemicals that activate the emotion of "euphoria", giving reason for chocolate's popular mood elevating effects.Traditionally, around the globe, chocolate is known to open the heart and, through it's combination of anandamide, tryptophan, serotonan and phenylethylamine (PEA) compounds, releases a "bliss substance" and a feeling of "falling in love". These effects are present because of these powerful natural ingredients that work together to uplift the spirit and relax the soul! 
Sacred Cacao Use:We believe cacao beans should be used in reverence and respect as in ancient custom and ritual.They serve as one of the most supreme ways to deliver
tonic herbs,
nutritive teas,
medicinal mushrooms
and general nutrition deeper into the body. This allows for absorption at maximum efficiency and in some cases alchemically works to potentize healing qualities of these foods.
People who have candida, parasites, or nervous system disorders, however, should use cacao in small quantities or dismiss use until body is clear and free of pathogens. I and others have experienced adverse effects from raw cacao, such as over-stimulation and later irritability, when consumed in large quantities or not in proper proportions with other foods. Some body types may be sensitive to raw chocolate and should avoid or eat in small quantities, only in occasional healthy dessert recipes. Cacao is Not a high source of caffeine and contains only small amounts compared to coffee, which has over 20 times more caffeine. Cacao is about 1% theobromine, which helps to dilate the blood and cardiovascular system.
We ultimately believe life should be fun and eating fun, great tasting foods (within reason) is apart of a balanced, happy life. Most people love the taste of chocolate, and raw chocolate is a much healthier upgrade from processed and refined cocoa and cooked cacao products. 
Try adding raw cacao to a morning
shake recipe
for a delicious chocolaty flavor!
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