Preparing Cacao
You can use it daily and for meditation by making a Cacao drink using about 20-30 grams per day of the Cacao depending on your needs. It can be made with water or milk (oat, almond, hemp) and you can add whatever spices you desire to spice it up ~ Like Bee Pollen, Cinnamon, Maca and Mucuna.
Bee pollen ~ It is a complete protein, rich in vitamins, minerals, enzymes, amino acids and antioxydants. It is rich in B vitamins, which are essentian for a healthy nervous system and powerful detoxifiers, especially to the brain.
Cinnamon ~ Great for balancing flavor. It assists in circulation of blood and the pelvic/reproduction region in women. It is warming and supports digestion.
Maca ~ It increases strength and energy levels without the crash, It heightens libido. The Inca call it a gift from the gods. It is a Peruvian radish with superfood properties.
Mucuna ~ It is known as the dopamine bean and it gives another layer of mood boosting to the already elevating properties in Cacao.
Cacao Liquid is naturally bitter and it is best sweetened with honey, agave syrup or maple syrup.
You can also use Cacao as a cooking ingredient.
You can also alchemise your Cacao Liquor into interesting chocolate and desserts.
The Setting and Ceremonial Use
When you prepare to drink Ceremonial Cacao, the first step is to set up your space. Making your space clear, cozy and inviting is just as impiortant as the process of making your Cacao.
I encourage you to feel into what you’re needing in the moment. Maybe it is some quiet, reflective time to integrate other experiences. You might also wanna dance, stretch or go for a walk in nature. You might have questions to ask yourself like ‘What would I like to do to nourish myself today?’
Once you feel centered, you can begin making your Cacao.
For a full dosage you need 42 grams of Cacao Liquor and add the amount of water you want to use for one person.
Heat the water to just under boiling and add the Cacao and stir until it dissolves. Don’t have the water boiling with the Cacao. Stir until the mixture has thickened.
It is advised not to frequently use Cacao ceremonially as 42 grams can be heavy on the adrenals after a while.
It is recommended that you don’t at least two hours before having the Cacao for its full effect.
It works best in an empty stomach.
Cacao is a stimulant and can keep you awake. If you are sensitive to stimulants it is worth considering this when choosing how much Cacao to take and when to take it.
Ceremonial Cacao is contraindicated with anti-depressants, antipsychotic medication and MAOIs.
If you are on anti-depressants or anti psychotics it is recommended that you take a very low dose (5 grams) and see how you feel with that. You can always take a bit more later adding 5 grams at a time.
Ceremonial Cacao doesn’t play well with caffein.