The term Cacao Deva refers to the spirit, essence, or plant consciousness behind this sacred medicine. While this phrase is rooted in contemporary ceremonial language, many Indigenous traditions across Mesoamerica and the Amazon have long honored cacao as a sacred ally—used in rites of passage, healing rituals, and offerings to deities such as IxCacao, the Mayan goddess of chocolate, love, and abundance.

Deva is a Sanskrit word meaning “divine being” and reflects how I experience her: as a loving, intelligent presence who offers a shakti transmission, inviting emotional healing, intuitive insight, and deeper connection to the Earth.

I chose the name Cacao Deva Love to honor this relationship—a bridge between plant spirit, sacred practice, and heart-led healing.

In ceremony Cacao Deva, gives even more generously

Antioxidants
Ceremonial cacao is one of the most antioxidant-rich foods on the planet. Its packed with potent flavonoids that help combat oxidative stress, support cellular health and detoxification, strengthen blood vessels and artery walls, improve circulation, nourish the heart muscle, and help regulate blood pressure.

Essential Fats

The cacao butter in ceremonial cacao is rich in essential fatty acids, especially Omega-6, which nourish brain function, support metabolic regulation, and contribute to hormonal balance.

Vitamins & Minerals
Ceremonial cacao is packed with a powerhouse of essential nutrients, especially magnesium, iron, zinc, potassium, copper, and chromium. It also contains trace elements of B-vitamins, which support energy metabolism, nervous system health, and cellular function.

Criollo is considered the original heirloom cacao used by Maya and Aztec civilizations in sacred rituals and offerings. Even earlier, the ancient peoples of Mesoamerica really nurtured its magic, revered as a gift from the Gods.

Cacao is classified into two main species: Criollo and Forastero along with a hybrid third called Trinitario. Within these main families there are many variations and strains. But Criollo remains the rarest, making up just 2% grown Worldwide. Its fermentation process is naturally shorter than other varieties, unlocking its optimal flavour and potent benefits with minimal intervention.

Not all Cacao is ethically sourced and there are many hybrid cheaper cacao varieties that are easier to grow but I have personally found have a much higher level of caffeine that charges up the nervous system which can lead to feeling wired (and in my case migraines).

Criollo, by contrast, has minimal caffeine and is rich in theobromine—a compound that although is a relative of caffeine it's difference is it does not charge up the nervous system in the same way, but gently activates the cardiovascular system, enhancing oxygenated blood flow to the brain and major organs, relaxing muscles, opens the heart and lifting mood.

Because of this, criollo cacao aligns beautifully with sacred use and is in my view the best bean to use for inner work. 

Over the years, I have explored other types of Ceremonial Cacao, but for me, literally none compare to the Ashaninka grown Criollo bean Cacao. That is the reason I have cultivated an intimate relationship with her over the past 8 years, choosing her every time, even when I have been invited to run Cacao Ceremonies at festivals where other varieties were offered to be provided.  Because for me,  holding space for others with Sacred Plant Medicine requires a deep connection and trust. Not all varieties have the same effect. 

Ceremonial Cacao can get over looked as simply hot chocolate, but it is more than that, and when prepared with intention and the right dose, it becomes a powerful ally deserving of deep respect this Sacred plant medicine calls for. 

What's more,  Criollo Cacao is super smooth, and tastes delicious! delicate, complex, floral, fruity and nutty. It’s ideal for ceremonial use, where subtlety, potency and depth truly matter.

It's also naturally high in magnesium, flavonoids, and mood-enhancing compounds like theobromine (already discussed) and PEA (phenylethylamine) - a compound naturally released in the brain when we fall in love, how beautiful is that!! Cacao doesn't override, it activates what's already within us, to embrace parts of self and gently guide us home to our natural state of joy and heart connection.

Anti-depressants (MAOI and SSRI)

Cacao is contra-indicated for those taking MAOI anti-depressants, and not advised for individuals on SSRI anti-depressants. This is because cacao's mood-boosting chemistry naturally stimulates the  body's own production of serotonin. When combined with medications that also elevate serotonin- especially anti-depressants, this can lead to serotonin overload, which may result in unpleasant or serious side effects.

Supplements such as 5-HTP and St. John’s Wort, can potentially cause similar interactions when combined with cacao, particularly in higher doses or in sensitive individuals. 

Please consult your GP or health provider if you are uncertain if Cacao is suitable for you.

Heart conditions:

Ceremonial Cacao contains compounds to support cardiovascular health.

Our Cacao works gently on the heart, primarily through theobromine, that can increase heart rate and dilate blood vessels.
If you have a heart condition, are taking heart medication, or know that an increase in heart rate could pose a medical concern, please consult your healthcare provider before consuming ceremonial cacao.

Blood Pressure:

As a vasodilator, Ceremonial cacao may lower blood pressure further, so those with very low blood pressure (hypotension) or who take medication to manage blood pressure should be especially mindful of this effect.

If you're unsure whether cacao is suitable for you, please consult your GP or healthcare provider.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Ceremonial cacao is a rich source of magnesium, iron, and mood-supporting compounds, offering  nourishment during pregnancy. However, it also contains natural stimulants—including theobromine and a very small amount of caffeine—and sensitivity to these may be heightened during this time.

I’ve worked with pregnant women who’ve found cacao profoundly supportive, both personally and in my ceremonies.  Yet everyone is different. I encourage expectant mothers to feel into what resonates for them and explore cacao slowly, with lower ceremonial doses (5–15g).

Extra care is recommended in the third trimester, when energetically, the expectant mother generally feels warmer, and sensitivity to cacaos naturally occurring plant compounds and blood pressure changes may be increased.

The same goes for breastfeeding—if you wish to drink cacao, start slowly and with low doses, observing how your baby responds.  Cacao’s properties will be infused in breast milk and may potentially affect sleep patterns.

 If you are unsure, please consult your healthcare provider before consuming ceremonial cacao. 

Adrenals~ Cacao's Call to balance:
Cacao is a beautiful support and boost in our lives. While it can soothe stress and offer many benefits, consuming it too frequently or in regular high doses (30–42g) may place strain on the adrenal system—especially for sensitive individuals or during times of depletion and heightened stress.

This doesn’t diminish cacao’s healing potential; rather, it invites us to tune in to our body's needs and the deeper wisdom of this medicine. Taking breaks from cacao from time to time, allows for spaciousness and integration. The real inner work often happens in the pauses, where everything settles and insight and transformation unfold.  This duality is part of cacao’s wisdom—it teaches us to listen not just to its gifts, but to our own rhythms.

At Cacao Deva Love, we encourage listening closely to your body’s needs, approaching cacao with reverence and reserving higher doses for spacious, intentional ceremony rather than everyday use.

Animals & Birds:

Ceremonial Cacao is fatal to Cats, Dogs, Rabbits, Horses, Ferrets, Squirrels or Parrots as they are not able to metabolise the Theobromine. Even small amounts can cause serious harm or death.  Do not give Cacao to them under any circumstances

Disclaimer
The information shared by Cacao Deva Love is intended for educational and ceremonial purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not claim to treat, cure, or prevent any condition. Please consult your healthcare provider where necessary before consumption of cacao.

10-20g  is great if you need some motivation, energy, clarity, or want to dive deeper into creativity, inspiration or lucid dreaming. This range is well-suited for daily or more regular use. 

30g-42g  (Full Ceremonial Dose) with 200-250ml of liquid (best taken with the intention of holding a personal ceremony for yourself)   

Please note:
These dosage suggestions are based on personal experience. Everybody is different, and it is important to listen to your own intuitive guidance and body when working with Cacao. If you are highly sensitive or already attuned to the Cacao Deva, lower doses may be more than enough to receive the benefits of Cacao.

It is best to store your Cacao Paste in a cool dark dry place.

Basic recipe: Weigh your cacao to ensure the right dose for your intention. Using the edge of a knife, chop the cacao paste, so it grates as finely as possible.

In a pan heat desired amount of liquid (water or nut milk for a creaminess - avoid dairy) until it begins to steam. Do not boil.

Remove pan off heat and add Cacao and stir gently.  Return to low heat stirring continuously until the cacao dissolves and is thickened slightly. 

Optional additions: a pinch of Himalayan salt, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and if desired a natural sweetener of choice, such as – date syrup, coconut sugar or maple syrup.

***Key: Avoid bringing cacao to boil, so it retains it's taste and all the potent properties***

and enjoy 😊

Cacao beyond the Cup: 
Besides being used in Ceremonial elixirs or beverages, cacao can be blended into smoothies for a grounding energy boost, sprinkled over cereal, or savoured as a nutritious snack. It can be incorporated into chillis or stews and is a yummy ingredient for energy balls or plant based desserts.  It is also perfect for making raw chocolates, the spark that began my journey with Cacao Deva!