Cacao has had her roots in the earth for thousands of years. The sacred cacao fruit was a pillar of Mesoamerican societies, their ceremonial use of cacao carries far more meaning than the Willy Wonka–style chocolate we snack on today.
These roots that anchor cacao into the earth also hold ancient communities, fantastic stories, and open hearts.
Food of the Gods
In the same way that the cacao pod grows and its flowers bloom, we can see how cacao has transcended generations—outliving its original cultivators. These ancient peoples would roast, grind, and ferment the cacao beans, blending them with water to create a foamy, bitter drink once known as the “Food of the Gods.”
So how did this little red, yellow, and brown pod travel across the world to land here, in your cup of cacao today?
In the 16th century, colonial explorers, after destroying much of these ancient societies, brought cacao back to Europe. Initially, its bitter taste didn’t appeal to many. But once milk and sugar were added through mass processing, chocolate as we know it today became a global sensation.
Yet now, cacao in its purest, most natural form is making a powerful return. Over the past 20 years, pure cacao has grown exponentially in popularity, reflecting a collective desire to reconnect—with ourselves, our wellbeing, and the planet. As organic, fair-trade, and ethical sourcing become priorities, we are asking deeper questions: Who is growing our food? Where does it come from? Is it cultivated with care?
Our wellbeing has become a priority. And in a world that can often feel uncertain or disconnected, we’re reaching for tools and practices that support both mind and body.
So Why Cacao, and Why Now?
Perhaps it’s the globalised world—where knowledge and products are more accessible than ever. Or perhaps it’s something deeper: a longing for community, a desire to slow down, and to find moments of stillness.
Cacao invites us into that space. It offers emotional support and grounding—the gentle pause between each sip that draws us back to ourselves. It’s soothing yet uplifting; a tonic that nurtures both the heart and spirit. Cacao is a plant ally that reminds us of connection and community, holding both at the core of its story.
As we grow more mindful of how we nourish our bodies, our thirst for vitality and health deepens. The wellness world continues to expand, and cacao has found its place within it—not just as a superfood, but as a whole experience.
Raw cacao is one of the most nutrient-dense foods on Earth, rich in antioxidants, magnesium, and iron, to name just a few. It’s no wonder it was once called the “Food of the Gods.”
Cacao as a Bridge
Cacao has become a bridge—helping us drop into the present moment, enjoy its rich taste and healthful properties, and weave simple rituals into our daily lives. However wellness looks for each of us, cacao creates community around that intention.
In every cup we mindfully prepare and drink, there’s a ripple of the ancient ways—a call to live more harmoniously with each other and with the planet.
~ written by Alex Ophelia Blyth