CACAO: "CHOCOLATE" OFFERINGS

 

CACAO SEED POWDER Theobroma cacao "Cocoa"
Native to Central American rainforests, this tree was originally cultivated by the Olmecs, then the Maya, Toltecs and finally taken up by the Aztecs. The seeds were actually used as a form of currency in Aztec society. The Aztecs were very thorough in their quest to understand the properties of all plants in their realm, having an entire class of trained medicinal scientists exploring far and wide to bring back living specimens to the royal botanical gardens for research. With such expertise and so many intriguing botanical products available, it is fitting that they determined the seeds of the Cacao tree to be of such superior value. There were periods when no person in the whole domain was allowed to use the seeds, except the King and his inner circle. In fact, the botanical name for this tree, Theobroma cacao, translates as "food of the gods."
To prepare the seeds, the pods are first piled up to "sweat" or ferment for 3-4 days, then the seeds are removed and dried. For home use locally, they are simply roasted and ground into a paste which is frequently brewed with hot peppers, aromatic medicinal herbs, cornmeal and mucilaginous flowers of the psychoactive Flor Rosita tree. When it became necessary to store the powdered product for shipping and commerce, a process for defatting the rich cocoa butter was devised to prevent the oils from going rancid with time. It is these defatted roasted seeds which are ground to make this exquisite plant ally we know as "cocoa." Few non-native people are acquainted with the pure form of "cocoa" and its effects because of the abundance of manufactured chocolate/sugar products today.
To learn the spirit of this sacred food-drug one should experience it free from the dramatically altering effects of sugar and other additives. Brew a strong infusion of this seed powder by taking two tablespoons and working it into one cup of cold water. Start this heating slowly and gently, gradually bringing it to the verge of boiling. Take the heat back down immediately to a simmer without actually boiling. Let simmer for three minutes. Drink hot, but keep it well stirred so as not to have the suspended material settle.
Cacao's euphoric aphrodisiacal qualities are attributed to theobromine with a small ratio of caffeine, phenethylamine, isoquinoline, and anandamide which has been found to bind to the same receptors in the brain as THC from marijuana. Cacao also contains significant amounts of two compounds that inhibit the degradation of anandamide in the body. The effects come on rapidly. Contrary to assumptions, the action of theobromine is truly relaxant, particularly for smooth muscle groups. The experience has elements of cerebral excitement but the sensation is overwhelmingly somatic. The heartbeat becomes pronounced, breathing is deepened and nourishing blood circulation is increased throughout the body. Tactile sensation is raised to a level of bodily ecstasy. A calm, warm glow of being incarnate, a gentle power courses through the limbs, that perfect feeling of fulfillment and pleasure, like curling up on a soft rug with a friend in front of a winter fireplace.
Pure Cacao seed powder has recently been found to contain high levels of antioxidant polyphenols, oligomeric procynanidins and other flavonoids that help boost the immune system and offer significant protection against "bad" cholesterol and heart disease. It is also very nutritious, having a high protein, vitamin and mineral content.
Our organically grown, fair trade certified Cacao comes from a small independently owned farms. Expertly roasted, it is the finest quality in terms of taste, nutrition and medicinal components that we have come across. It is what we use in formulating our popular aphrodisiacal drink blend, Moctezuma's Secret, as well as for personal use in making chocolate confections at home. It is shade grown, depending on an intact surrounding forest that also acts as a refuge for the region’s biodiversity. Your purchase directly helps support a traditionally sustainable agriculture that aids in the protection and regrowth of our rapidly disappearing rainforests.

      Organically grown, Fair Trade Certified, roasted Cacao Seed powder $10/8 oz or $16/lb
(Fair Trade Certified products raise living standards for farmers while helping to protect the environment. See- www.transfairusa.org)

CACAO SEED POWDER, RAW Theobroma cacao "Raw Cocoa"
NEW! Cacao seeds are processed at low temperatures producing this fantastic raw cocoa (and the cocoa butter). Raw Cacao powder is clearly the most medicinal chocolate product available. Analysis reveals up to 4 times the antioxidants action of roasted seed powder! If you are looking to maximize the health benefits of Cacao, this is the form to work with. In fact this raw Cacao powder has some of the highest antioxidant levels found in any nutriceutical or food. Excellent rich taste and delectable stimulant effects similar to the raw nibs. Use in the place of roasted cocoa powder in any recipes or concoctions. It takes nearly 3 lbs of seeds to make one pound of powder. 1/2-2 tablespoons a day is the recommended dose.

Organically grown Ecuadorian raw Cacao seed powder $7/4 oz or $20/lb or $70/4 lbs

CACAO BUTTER, RAW Theobroma cacao "Raw Cocoa Butter"
NEW! Cacao seeds are pressed at low temperature to make this impressive raw cocoa butter. Completely unlike other cocoa butters, which are processed at high temperatures and treated with chemicals to to remove the subsequent unpleasant scent, this butter has a wonderful delicate chocolate aroma and smooth rich flavor. Raw Cacao butter contains beneficial polyphenols and saturated fats that may have a positive effect on cholesterol. Considered by many to be the ultimate skin moisturizer. Soothing and helpful for a variety of skin conditions. Cacao butter is a solid that softens and melts at body temperature. It can be used in a wide spectrum of lotions and ointments and is superb for making all sorts of creamy chocolate confections. It takes nearly 3 lbs of Cacao seeds to make one pound of butter. 

Organically grown Ecuadorian raw Cacao Butter chunks $14/8 oz or $22/lb or $72/4 lbs

CACAO SEEDS, RAW Theobroma cacao "Chocolate Beans"   
Many of us have an intimate relationship with chocolate, but few are familiar with the raw, unprocessed seed, the original "Food of the Gods." Once utilized as a form of currency in Aztec society, raw Cacao seeds are a true superfood, being high in protein, beneficial fats, vitamins and minerals. Raw Cacao is reported to be the richest natural source for magnesium, an important mineral highly deficient in modern diets. The raw seeds are also surprisingly high in vitamin C and an excellent source of natural sulfur, a mineral associated with healthy skin, nails, hair and proper liver and pancreas function. Raw Cacao is the most medicinal of any chocolate product, containing the highest levels of immune- enhancing antioxidant polyphenols, procyanidins and other flavonoids known to protect against a wide array of ailments, especially heart disease. Unfortunately cooking and processing seriously compromises or destroys many of these health enhancing constituents in the seeds. The psychoactive properties of the raw seeds are also very different, having a more mild "clear" stimulant effect, being pleasantly relaxing, imparting a sense of well being, along with a wonderful enhancement of tactile sensation that leaves no doubt to their aphrodisiacal efficaciousness. These actions are thought to be at least partially attributable to a much lower caffeine content and higher theobromine content than the fermented, roasted, processed and sugared "cocoa" that we are all use to. The taste of raw Cacao seeds is similar to that of unsweetened baking chocolate, slightly bitter and deliciously rich. They can be eaten whole as is. Soaking in water for several hours softens them nicely, at which point they can be made into raw "hot" chocolate by adding a handful to a blender along with your favorite milk (we prefer hemp seed or macadamia nut milk), a little vanilla, cinnamon and honey to sweeten and then warming on the stove. This can alternately be frozen for a special treat. The dry seeds can be ground in a coffee mill to make raw "cocoa powder." This can be mixed with 1/5 -1/3 raw Virgin Oil de Coco-Creme oil and honey to taste, then shaped into squares, placed on waxpaper in the fridge for 10 minutes to solidify, and you have truly phenomenal raw chocolate bars! For those who prefer a more familiar taste, the seeds can be roasted in a pan, then eaten straight or ground and mixed with honey. These seeds are organically grown and dried at very low temperatures in Ecuador. For your convenience we now offer dehusked Cacao nibs (pieces). These nibs are very close to what we previously offered as Super Raw Cacao. We enjoy them as a healthful daily snack. See our Books page for the book Naked Chocolate, full of lore and exquisite recipes.

Organically grown Ecuadorian raw Cacao seed nibs  $6/4 oz or $19/lb or $70/4 lbs

CACAO, RAW BAR "Medicinal Chocolate Bars"  
We have been experimenting with raw cacao formulations, and have come up with some amazing truly medicinal raw chocolate bars. The response has been simply outstanding. The base for these delicious rich dark chocolates is raw cacao seed nibs, coconut oil and the local wildflower honey we use in our Herbal Honeys. At this time we have 2 selections. Each bar is approximately 1.5" x 2" and individually wrapped-
Amazonian Supreme Raw Cacao Bar: Organic Raw Cacao seed nibs, Organic Virgin oil de Coco Creme, Wildflower Honey, Clavohuasca, Organic Guayusa, Iporuru, and Chuchuhuasi. $2.00 per bar, Minimum order of 4 bars.
Himalayan Raw Cacao Bar: Organic Raw Cacao seed nibs, Organic Lycii berries, Organic Virgin oil de Coco Creme, Wildflower Honey, Organic Cordyceps Mushroom, Rhodiola rosea and Rhodiola kirilowii root. $2.00 per bar, Minimum order of 4 bars.
Super Raw Cacao Bar: Organic Raw Cacao seed nibs, Organic Virgin oil de Coco Creme, Wildflower Honey, Organic Maca root, and Organic Lucuma fruit. $2.00 per bar, Minimum order of 4 bars.
$3.50 shipping for bars only or no additional shipping when ordered with other products

CACAO, RAW POWDER BLEND: CACAHUATL SYNERGY  
NEW! Organic Ecuadorian Raw Cacao seed powder, Organic Peruvian Maca root powder, Wildcrafted Peruvian Mesquite Meal, and Organic Peruvian Lucuma fruit powder are combined  in all the right proportions to create this synergistic blend. Delicious, nutritious, energizing, arousing and immune enhancing, this powder can be used in innumerable recipes and concoctions. This blend is terrific added to smoothies or shakes. A rich and malty "hot chocolate" drink is made by thoroughly mixing 2-3 tablespoons per cup of water or milk and slowly warming on the stove. 

Cacahuatl Synergy Powder Blend  $7/4 oz or $22/lb

CACAO ABSOLUTE ESSENTIAL OIL       
With the incredible aroma of the finest chocolate, this dark roasted Cacao seed oil makes a highly intriguing body scent. An excellent ingredient in erotic formulations. Sensual, heady, delicious!                        

$10 / 1/8 oz bottle or $25/ 1/2 oz 

MOCTEZUMA'S SECRET
When the Spanish barbarian, Cortez burst into the 1520sAztec court, he was shocked and intrigued to discover the aged Moctezuma reveling in the pastime of a royal harem. Upon learning that the basis for this royal pleasuring was an aphrodisiac brew forbidden to all but the court, Cortez kept the Aztec King alive only long enough to determine its ingredients and formula. With the rapid culture crash, use and knowledge of the original Royal Secret was forgotten. The Europeans brought one of the ingredients into world awareness, seed of the Cacao (Cocoa) Tree, now a household item. In the original erotic brew, cacao was blended with unique medicinal herbs and spices to give a drink that is worlds apart from our familiar, puny chocolate.
Since partially resurrecting the lost recipe from obscure Vatican manuscripts we have been blending the herbal drink once more, immersed in the Business of Pleasure. The intense, pungent mix of bitter, stimulating organic cacao seeds, fiery hot organic chilis, with the bioactive herbs Damiana, Kola, organic Chamomile, organic Red Clover, and organic Spearmint. Our most popular product! With hundreds of satisfied customers worldwide, this exotic beverage has become an underground sensation!

$8/4 oz (20-cup supply) or $24/lb or $80/4 lbs
 Additional discounted bulk rates available for larger quantities, please inquire.

MOCTEZUMA'S LITE  
We have had regular requests for custom batches of less-hot Moctezuma's Secret. For those who find their consumption of the herbally medicated chocolate brew is limited by the degree of hotness they are used to or have friends who'd love to be able to experience the brew's effects, but who have yet to grow tolerant of chilis, this is the answer. All the exotic ingredients formulated according to the classic recipe, except for the hot peppers. 

$8/4 oz (20-cup supply) or $24/lb or $80/4 lbs

MOCTEZUMA'S RAW    NEW!!
Requests from raw food enthusiasts have lead us to concoct this great new  Moctezuma's! A blend of organically grown Ecuadorian raw Cacao Seed powder, Damiana herb, organically grown Chamomile, organically grown Red Clover, organically grown Spearmint, and organically grown Aji Red Limo chili powder. We find the raw Cacao powder to give the blend a smoother, richer flavor and an enhancement of the pleasurable effects. To prepare a raw beverage it can be stirred into cold fresh water and warmed on the stove and left to steep for 10-15 minutes then filtered through a course strainer or alternately infuse for several hours as a sun tea. One heaping tablespoon per cup.

$9/4 oz (20-cup supply) or $28/lb

STIMULANT HONEY
An incredibly tasty and powerfully potent lincture of organic Cacao seed, Kola nut, Guarana seed and honey in all the right proportions. This rich and euphoric blend is great for a hard day's work, long distance driving, and extended dancing. Markedly enhances sensual experiences. This honey has a real kick and we advise not overdoing it. 1 tablespoon is a good dose. 

$10/ 4 oz jar (9 oz) or $30/16 oz jar (2 lbs)

VANILLA BEANS Vanilla planifolia  NEW!!
The near-ripe fruit of the Vanilla orchid produces one of the most valuable and esteemed spices in the world. It is the most labor intensive of all agricultural products, cultivation, pollination and harvesting must all be done by human hands. After picking, the beans are subjected to a six month curing process which consists of drying them in the sun during the day and fermenting them in wooden boxes during the night. It is during this process that vanilla-glycoside is converted into glucose and vanillan, which are responsible for the prized Vanilla aroma and flavor. Native to Central America, where it was traditionally used to flavor potent Cacao drinks. Vanilla is now grown in tropical regions around the world, and like wine, the aroma and flavor are distinct to the region in which they are grown. Uganda has only recently begun Vanilla cultivation, but they produce some of the finest beans in the world. Our beans are premium grade and each one is about 7.5". Small slices can be used to flavor chocolate, teas, smoothies, and all manner of desserts. You can make your own Vanilla extract by soaking the beans in vodka. Limited quantity!

Organically grown, whole Ugandan Vanilla Beans $5/per bean or $23/5 beans (1/2 oz)
or $42/10 beans (1 oz)

BOOKS

NAKED CHOCOLATE     
by David Wolfe and Shazzie
America's self proclaimed leading nutrition guru, David Wolfe, and the UK's self styled progressive health educator, Shazzie, have authored this unusual book on the Food of the Gods, Cacao (chocolate). Contains an brief overview of the history and lore, biochemistry, and superior nutritional & antioxidant value of this revered psychoactive herb/food. An interesting examination of raw Cacao versus roasted processed chocolate. The aphrodisiacal, anti-depressant and other medicinal aspects are explored including chocolate as a possible potentiator for other psychoactive plants and compounds. The second half of the book contains over 60 fantastically innovative, mouthwatering raw chocolate recipes. The book is illustrated throughout with dazzling color photographs. 

 Sofcover, color photos, 248 pages $24.95 (1 lb)

PHARMAKO/DYNAMIS:
Stimulating Plants, Potions & Herbcraft
by Dale Pendell
The much anticipated sequel to Pharmako/Poeia. The continued exploration of psychoactive plants as teachers and allies. Applying poetry, chemistry, pharmacology, and a generous sprinkling of arcane lore, Pendell mesmerizes us with his journeys through coffee, tea, Cacao, Ilex spp., Guarana, Kola nut, Betel, Ephedra spp., khat, coca, nutmeg, & more!

Softcover, black & white illustrations, 304 pages $21.95 (2 lbs)

*The statements on our website are not intended as medical advice and have not been evaluated the almighty FDA. Our products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. This notice is required by the federal food, drug & cosmetic act.*