Does Ceremonial Cacao Contain Caffeine?
Cacao does not contain caffeine in its full form. However, it does contain one of the metabolites of caffeine – the stimulant ‘Theobromine’ which is a compound which makes up around 12% of caffeine. Unlike caffeine which is a nervous system stimulant, theobromine dilates the cardiovascular system. The result is the body’s blood vessels widening which brings on a desirable sense of simultaneous alertness and relaxation.
There is no evidence that theobromine will keep you awake. In fact, cacao has been shown to help support restful sleep. However, if you find the sense of alertness it brings delays your bedtime, we recommend incorporating cacao into your morning ritual. In this way it can even be a help you reduce caffeine intake if this is your goal.
Important safety note for dogs regarding Theobromine
Whilst Cacao is easily metabolised by humans, the Theobromine compound is the element of chocolate that makes it unsafe and toxic to dogs so, just like all chocolate, it is important to keep your cacao away from your 4 legged friends.
For detailed ideas on how to organise and structure a ceremony, read ‘How to Run a Cacao Ceremony’ here.
Or for tips on organising a ceremony in your local community, read ‘8 Steps to Creating your own Cacao Ceremony’ here.
At Smile Cacao we have sourced the smoothest, ceremonial grade cacao with a rich flavour profile from the Criollo bean. Smile cacao is inducing deep, profound, experiences in conscious communities across Australia, with sacred cacao sourced from indigenous Peruvian farmers using sustainable organic farming practices. Smile Cacao is here to support you to connect within, to your intuition, to your wisdom, to your inner fire. We are so excited to provide you with this sacred cacao to make your body, mind and soul SMILE.
Purchase your Smile Ceremonial Cacao HERE.
