Description

Enjoy this block of ceremonial cacao from Mamma Amor, a small batch womens collective in Guatemala.

These cacao blocks are fermented for seven days in banana leaves before shipping out.

They are hand made and produced with loving care and intention.

You will find the finger prints of the women who prepared them on the blocks ensuring you know it is literally hand-made!

This is high quality ceremonial cacao that goes through very little processing so you can be ensured it is raw and unadulterated.

What is ceremonial cacao?
This is different than chocolate you’d buy at a grocery store.
Ceremonial cacao, and cacao in general is the fruit of the cacao tree that is the source of what chocolate comes from.  Cacao doesn’t have the fats removed that create a nourishing elixir or concoction.  It is minimally processed and also has been fermented to convert starches into sugars and brings out the flavor profiles that we love so dearly in chocolate.  Otherwise it would be very bitter and astringent.

Cocoa or chocolate is roasted and further processed whereas cacao is the bean of the cacao plant fermented and crushed into a powder, paste or nib.

This block you will receive is the paste formed into a 16 oz brick.

Typical serving size is 1 oz, so you can use a scale to measure weight, or trace lines on the block: 1 length wise, and then half horizontally, divide those in half, and half again until you get 16 evenly distributed lines.

A cacao ceremony is a unique experience you can have by yourself, with a loved one, or with a group of people.  It can be simply you offering gratitude to the peoples that prepared this cacao, and the plant itself.  You can have more elaborate ceremonies by incorporating other practices like sound bath, meditation, breath work, journaling, self-inquiry, partner work, kirtan or chanting, and much more.  The most important aspect is having the intention of gratitude and openness.

Here’s a list of potential health benefits of organic raw ceremonial cacao:

– **Rich in Antioxidants**: Contains flavonoids that help combat oxidative stress.

– **Mood Enhancement**: Promotes the release of serotonin and endorphins, improving mood and reducing anxiety.

– **Neuro-protection**: Protecting the myllein sheath that covers axons connecting neurons together.

– **Heart Health**: May improve circulation and lower blood pressure due to its ability to enhance nitric oxide levels.

– **Brain Function**: Supports cognitive function and memory through increased blood flow to the brain.

– **Nutrient Dense**: High in essential minerals like magnesium, iron, and calcium.

– **Anti-Inflammatory Properties**: May reduce inflammation in the body.

– **Supports Weight Management**: Can help curb cravings and promote satiety.

– **Enhances Energy Levels**: Contains natural stimulants like theobromine, providing a gentle energy boost without jitters.

These benefits can vary based on individual health and dietary context. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice!

sources:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34578786/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8470865/
https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-cacao-powder

Harmonization / Tarriff Code: 1801.00.00