Ceremonial Criollo Cacao

Cacao ~ A Sacred Plant of Mesoamerica

Long before cacao became known throughout the world as chocolate, it held an important place in the cultural, agricultural & ceremonial traditions of Mesoamerica.

For thousands of years, cacao has been cultivated, prepared & shared by Indigenous peoples, including Maya communities whose relationships with the plant remain alive today.

Cacao was valued not only as nourishment, but also as a meaningful element of social gatherings, offerings, exchange & ceremonial life.

Its botanical name, Theobroma cacao, translates from Greek as "food of the gods," reflecting the reverence that has surrounded this extraordinary tree.

In contemporary ceremonial practices, cacao is often approached as a plant ally for cultivating gratitude, connection, compassion & presence.

We honor the distinct Indigenous traditions through which cacao knowledge has been preserved, while recognizing that contemporary cacao ceremonies are not necessarily identical to historical Maya practices.

100% Organic Heirloom Criollo Cacao

A Ritual of Presence & Devotion

Cacao invites us to slow down.

To warm the hands around a cup, savor its fragrance & bring our attention into the present moment.

Whether prepared for meditation, shared in ceremony or enjoyed as a daily ritual, cacao offers an opportunity to cultivate an intentional relationship with nourishment.

It can be a beautiful companion for prayer, reflection, creative expression, movement, intimate gatherings & moments of gratitude.

Rather than approaching cacao as something to consume quickly, we encourage preparing it with care ~ allowing the process itself to become part of the experience.

How to Prepare Your Cacao

Everyday Cacao Ritual

Begin with approximately 15–20 g of cacao per serving.

Meditative Cacao Ritual

Use approximately 20–25 g of cacao per serving.

Full Ceremonial Preparation

Traditional and contemporary ceremonial serving sizes vary. Some practitioners use approximately 30–40 g per serving, though larger servings contain more theobromine & caffeine and may not be appropriate for everyone.

Preparation

1. 
   Gently warm ½–¾ cup of spring water or your preferred milk. Avoid vigorous boiling.
   
2. 
   Add your desired amount of finely chopped ceremonial cacao.
   
3. 
   Whisk or blend until completely melted, smooth & creamy.
   
4. 
   Enjoy pure or add a touch of raw honey, cinnamon, cardamom, vanilla or other complementary botanicals.
   
5. 
   Take a moment to acknowledge the plant, the land & the hands that cultivated your cacao before drinking.
   

Pure cacao naturally contains cacao butter, which may separate slightly as the beverage cools. Simply warm & stir again.

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, moisture & strong odors.

Cacao naturally contains theobromine & caffeine. Begin with a smaller serving to assess individual sensitivity, particularly if sensitive to stimulants.

Larger servings may cause increased heart rate, digestive discomfort or restlessness. Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner before consuming concentrated servings if pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medications or managing a cardiovascular condition.

Keep away from pets, as cacao can be toxic to dogs & other animals.