Ceremonial Cacao
What is Cacao?
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Theobroma Cacao, translated from Greek to mean “Food of the Gods,” is derived from the fruit of the Theobroma cacao tree. Indigenous to Mesoamerica, its long and rich cultural history begins in Central and South America, where its people cultivated cacao for food and currency.
Unlike highly processed modern day cacao (also known as cocoa), pure cacao is processed traditionally by; fermenting, roasting, peeling and crushing the beans of the pod into a paste. The minimalism of this traditional process means that the end result retains its impressive nutritional profile and bioactive compounds, making it a superfood in the truest sense of the word!
The cacao tree is now cultivated all along the equator, growing within 20 degrees north and south of the equator, where hot temperatures and a humid environment allow it to thrive.

Why Drink Cacao?
Cacao is both a nutritional powerhouse and a revered natural tonic, offering a unique blend of scientifically backed health benefits and long-standing cultural significance. Rich in magnesium, flavonoids, and neurochemical compounds, cacao supports cardiovascular health, enhances cognitive function, and promotes emotional well-being. The theobromine found in cacao acts as a mild stimulant, increasing blood flow and oxygenation to the brain and heart, while anandamide, often referred to as the “bliss molecule,” contributes to feelings of relaxation and mental clarity.
Beyond its physiological effects, cacao has been used in traditional ceremonies for centuries due to its ability to promote focus, introspection, and emotional balance. Its combination of bioactive compounds can help regulate mood, reduce stress, and support overall mental resilience. Whether consumed for its functional health benefits or as part of a mindful practice, cacao provides a natural and effective way to enhance both physical and mental well-being.
In short? It’s like coffee’s cooler, more sophisticated cousin—giving you energy without the jitters, focus without the crash, and just enough mood-boosting magic to make Monday mornings almost enjoyable.

At Breath 24/7, we are always exploring ways to deepen and enhance the breathwork experience, and the introduction of ceremonial cacao is a natural extension of our practice. Cacao and breathwork share a powerful synergy—both work to increase oxygenation, open the heart, and promote clarity of mind, making them the perfect pairing for those seeking profound transformation.
Now, alongside our signature Respiratory Retraining, DMT Activation Breathwork, and Ice Bath experiences, we are integrating cacao into select sessions, bringing an extra layer of intention, focus, and energy to the practice. The gentle stimulation of cacao enhances breathwork by improving circulation, mental alertness, and emotional connection, creating a richer, more immersive journey.
Ready to experience it for yourself? Join us at Breath 24/7, sip on this ancient superfood, and take your breathwork practice to the next level.
The Health Benefits of Cacao​
Cacao is an alchemical powerhouse packed FULL of nutrients, minerals and vitamins such as;
Magnesium, manganese, calcium, iron, zinc, potassium, copper, vitamin C, tryptophan, omega 6 fatty acids, serotonin to name a few. The combined nutritional and neurochemical properties of cacao contribute to a huge range of health benefits that are backed by scientific research.
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Cardiovascular Health - The flavonoids in cacao improve heart health by relaxing the blood vessels, improving blood flow, lowering blood pressure, and increasing nitric oxide production.
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Cognitive Function - Cacao’s polyphenols support brain health by improving blood flow to the brain. Cacao butter enables the metabolism of nutrients such as magnesium, which in turn creates mental clarity and enhances memory and learning capacity. Its neurochemical compounds, such as theobromine and flavonoids, may reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
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Mood Enhancement - The presence of PEA, anandamide, and serotonin precursors makes cacao a natural mood booster, increasing dopamine production and enhancing attentiveness.
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Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties - Cacao’s flavonoids combat chronic inflammation, reducing the risk of diseases such as arthritis and diabetes.
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Skin Health - Cacao improves skin hydration, elasticity, and UV protection due to its high flavonoid content.
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Weight Management - The fibre and theobromine in cacao may reduce appetite and enhance metabolism, supporting healthy weight management when consumed in moderation.
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Gut Health - Cacao acts as a prebiotic, supporting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, improved digestion, immune function, and overall gut health.
Magnesium
Magnesium is essential for the body’s functions, supporting energy production, muscle and nerve function, bone health, heart rhythm, and mental well-being. Despite its importance, modern agricultural practices have significantly depleted magnesium levels in the soil, leading to reduced amounts in many foods. This makes it increasingly difficult to meet daily requirements through diet alone. Cacao is a rich, natural source of magnesium, offering a delicious and nutrient-dense way to help replenish this vital mineral. Including minimally processed cacao in your diet can support overall health and counteract the effects of soil nutrient depletion.
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Antioxidants and flavanols
Cacao is one of the richest natural sources of antioxidants and flavanols, compounds that contribute to its many health benefits. Antioxidants protect the body from oxidative stress by neutralising free radicals, unstable molecules that can damage cells and lead to chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and ageing-related disorders. The primary antioxidants in cacao include polyphenols, specifically flavonoids, which are highly concentrated in pure, unprocessed cacao.
Flavanols, a subgroup of flavonoids, are particularly abundant in cacao and are responsible for many of its health-enhancing properties. These bioactive compounds improve blood flow by supporting the production of nitric oxide, which relaxes blood vessels and lowers blood pressure. Flavanols also reduce inflammation and improve cholesterol levels, contributing to cardiovascular health. Additionally, they support brain function by increasing oxygen and nutrient delivery to the brain, enhancing cognitive performance, memory, and learning ability.
Neurochemical Components of Cacao
Phenylethylamine (PEA) - Known as the “love chemical,” PEA is a natural compound in cacao that promotes the release of endorphins and dopamine, enhancing feelings of pleasure and well-being. It can also aid in athletic performance weight loss.​​​​​​​​​​
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Tryptophan
An essential amino acid found in cacao, is a precursor to serotonin, the neurotransmitter associated with happiness and emotional balance.
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Theobromine
A gentle and long lasting stimulant unique to cacao. Although similar, theobromine is about 25% the strength of caffeine. It provides a gentle energy boost by increasing blood flow throughout the body, making one calm and relaxed yet mentally alert and focused. In addition to its stimulating effects, Theobromine relaxes smooth muscle tissue, which supports lung function and the circulatory system; dilates blood vessels, regulates blood pressure and reduces the chance of clotting.
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MAOIs (monoamine oxidase inhibitors)
MAO is an enzyme that metabolises neurotransmitters such as serotonin and Dopamine from our body. The MAOI’s in cacao helps to maintain both of these mood altering neurotransmitters in our brain chemistry for longer. Serotonin contributes to our happiness and regulates mood, appetite and sleep function. Dopamine helps regulate movement, attention, learning and emotional responses. Low levels of dopamine and serotonin are related to depression.
Anandamide
Often referred to as the “bliss molecule”, it has only ever been found in one plant - cacao! Anandamide is an endogenous cannabinoid neurotransmitter found in the brain that interacts with receptors in the brain to induce a sense of euphoria, relaxation, and…Bliss!
