Cacao is an incredibly diverse ingredient, able to be used in everything from sweet treats to savory dishes, and it’s becoming more and more popular in modern recipes and artisan creations. There are many different kinds of cacao available, with each having different properties that lend themselves to particular uses. One of the most popular types of cacao around today is ceremonial grade cacao powder, which can be difficult to obtain in some places but has many wonderful uses if you can find it! Read on to learn about ceremonial grade cacao powder, how it’s made, and what makes it so special!
Ceremonial grade cacao gets its name from traditional rituals, where it was often used in ceremonies. Although there are many different varieties of cacao, ceremonial grade generally refers to a higher quality cacao that’s used for baking and dessert purposes. The higher quality means that it has more antioxidants, which support a healthy cardiovascular system and optimal blood flow.
The ceremonial grade of cacao can be used to help you become more relaxed and peaceful. It’s used in meditation rituals because it calms you down, helps you focus and can reduce pain in some people. The high magnesium content in ceremonial cacao can also help to reduce stress, make you feel more relaxed and bring on a sense of euphoria.
At its most basic level, ceremonial cacao isn’t about making something taste good – it’s about using ingredients that have profound effects on your body and mind. If you’re feeling down and need a pick-me-up, an energizing ceremonial cacao blend will often be what you reach for. Some people drink it as a pre-workout or to get a little boost of energy before going out at night. Others take it in pill form to increase mental clarity and reduce stress.
Research suggests that cacao can help you fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer, and improve sleep quality. That’s because of a potent ingredient known as Theobromine. This chemical helps your body process tryptophan, an amino acid that’s involved in producing serotonin and norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters are responsible for relaxation, helping you to feel sleepy at night. Another way cacao helps with sleep is through PEA or phenylethylamine.
Chocolate, when consumed in its raw ceremonial grade form, can help uplift your mood and enhance your mood. When taken as a supplement it has been shown to provide mental stimulation, lessen anxiety and depression, improve cognitive function and increase overall feelings of well-being. Drinking a cup of ceremonial cacao before or after a meal can also help you experience satiety while lowering cortisol levels resulting in stable blood sugar levels throughout the day. Learn more here!
main photo: unsplash.com/Etty Fidele
