Ceremonial Cacao - A Complete Guide From Bean To Bliss
- Josh Boughton
- Sep 12
- 11 min read
Ceremonial cacao represents the pinnacle of cacao. There is simply nothing like it. It is the soul of this incredible plant and creates a cacao experience like nothing else.
What is ceremonial CacaO?
All cacao comes from Theobroma Cacao, a small evergreen tree in the family Malvaceae, native to the deep tropical regions of Mesoamerica. However, not all cacao is equal, as there are many different varieties of cacao, varying in quality and properties. Just like wine, cacao also has different grades and calibers that differentiate regular cacao from ceremonial cacao. To be considered ceremonial grade cacao, it must tick all the boxes outlined below.
It is pure full cacao-bean paste – the cacao paste block (or drops) must be prepared from only 100% pure organic cacao beans that have been naturally sun-dried, hand-peeled, and milled to form the paste. Nothing added, nothing removed. This creates cacao in its purest form, beautifully blended in its own full-fat form to produce a creamy 100% pure block.
Most cacao and cocoa you buy at the store have had most, if not nearly all, of the fat removed, which is then sold separately as cocoa butter. It often contains additives, fillers, and sweeteners. With the cost of cacao being so high right now, lots of adulterants are finding their way into it.
It is made from premium hand-selected single-origin Criollo cacao beans. Criollo cacao is the rarest and premium cacao, famous for its incredibly aromatic flavour and aroma, as well as containing the highest levels of medicinal components. It is, however, very delicate, low-yielding, and requires careful attention and support from the jungle canopy to thrive. This variety is not used for mass production as it cannot be produced on a large scale. For authentic ceremonial cacao, the pods are individually hand-picked with permission from the tree, inspected for imperfections, and the beans are graded to select only the finest.
Most commercially produced cacao is made from varieties of cacao that are more resistant to things like pests and create higher yields, but they are not as aromatic and have lower levels of the important bioactive compounds.
It is 100% organic shade-grown under a natural agroforestry canopy. Cacao pods are porous, and they absorb the aromas and energies of the plants that surround them. Neighbouring trees containing fruits like banana or papaya can infuse the flavor of the cacao and enhance the profile and sensory experience when using it in ceremony. True ceremonial cacao comes from this agroforestry environment, and the cacao produced not only contains the flavors of the jungle that surround it but also the energy and vibration of the environment, further enhancing the spiritual connection of the user to the Amazonian spirit.
Most cacao is now produced from mono-cropped trees at the expense of the jungle by farmers who burn out areas to mass cultivate for bigger yields. They often use immature or damaged pods, weak or wounded cacao, and combine all the beans from various sources into a single blend. To hide imperfections in flavor, these beans are often roasted to create a more chocolate flavor.
Real ceremonial cacao is blessed by the indigenous owners of the land and produced with respect to their traditional customs: It comes from indigenous communities where the people have used it ceremonially for thousands of years as a sacred plant. It is essential that the ancestral owners of the cacao are involved in the production process, including blessing the soil, trees, pods, and paste throughout the proces,s and that reverence is upheld towards the culturally sensitive aspects of the people from the farming community. We should feel honored to be given access to their sacred plants and require their blessings for us to use them. The cacao ceremony starts when the seeds are planted. Happy trees, happy farmers, and a happy community provide clean, pure, happy, high-vibrational cacao. Ensuring that we are culturally sensitive in the way cacao is produced and exported is essential, and one of the key differences between ceremonial-grade cacao and simple cacao paste. The intentions of the producer will determine the energetics of the final product.
All cacao originated in the Amazon of Peru and spread through the Americas as far north as Mexico, where indigenous tribes of this region used it for spiritual practice. This specific cacao has a spiritual origin, intended use, and a long 7500+ year history. It is known as ancestral cacao and is considered a gift from the gods to the indigenous people of these lands, referred to as Abya Yala (meaning "the blood of the earth"). As it was gifted to these people of the land, it is considered sacred and must be of indigenous origin from this region to be classified as ceremonial.
This is very different than most caca, which is produced through farmer exploitation, child-slave labor, comes from unhappy trees, forced production against the laws of nature, or from Western companies profiting off the backs of indigenous people. All cacao outside of South and Central America was selected only for mass production of chocolate for the chocolate industry. It, therefore, shouldn't be used in spiritual practice and ceremony.
The best ceremonial cacao is traceable back to the farms where it came from, where traditional practices are followed, farmers are paid a fair price for their crops, some of the profits are reinvested in the community, and the environment is protected.
Real ceremonial cacao should be packed with the bioactives that provide the benefits. Most cacao and chocolate are very low in these things. The reality is that for the full benefits of cacao to be realized, it must address all the points we made. The result is more bliss, more energy, more happiness, more joy, more satisfaction, more awakening, and more uplifting occurs when you take ceremonial cacao versus other cacao products. It is pure and transformative, very different from regular cacao powder or supermarket chocolate.
Just because something is labeled cacao paste does not make it ceremonial. As you can see, there are numerous steps that must be taken to produce authentic ceremonial cacao. Unfortunately, there are far too many products claiming to be ceremonial cacao that are, in fact, not. These products often come from questionable sources, have no connection to the indigenous peoples, no respect for the environment, and have very low levels of the important bioactive compounds.
Ceremonial Cacao And Heavy Metals
A lot of ceremonial (and regular cacao) can be high in heavy metals because of the soil it is grown in, and from contamination that comes from the manufacturing process, because of old and improperly maintained equipment. It’s essential to get ceremonial cacao that is tested for heavy metals, especially lead and cadmium.
Varieties of cacao
Most people are not aware that there are different varieties of cacao; in the same way, there are different varieties of corn, tomatoes, and other plants. The different varieties have varying levels of nutrients and compounds.
Ceremonial cacao should only be made from criollo cacao. There are sub-varieties of crillio cacao. Ceremonial cacao made from these various types can have very different effects.
Ceremonial Cacao
The first Ceremonial Cacao we want to talk about is Amaru, Ukhu Pacha, The Spiril.
This high-vibrational Ceremonial Criollo Cacao has been produced with love and pure intention in honor of the Awajun tribe in Peru, who have used cacao in ceremony for over 5000 years. Their ceremonial cacao temple at Monte Grande (Peru) was constructed in the shape of a spiral to represent the union of the human spirit with the universe, connection to our ancestors of the past, and projection forward to our future descendants. It is thought to symbolise also the Ukhu Pacha (underworld) in Andean and Amazonian cosmovision, represented by the snake (spiral shape). For them, cacao allows connection to the divinity and a way to resonate gratitude and thanks for everything Mother Earth (Pachamama) provides. Each block comes blessed directly from the farm and directly supports the farmers and community who produce it in Tocache, Peru.
This cacao has an incredible ratio of 29:1 - theobromine to caffeine. Perfect for the uplifting, heart-opening effects without the adverse side effects of caffeine overstimulation. Seleno Health’s biochemical analysis has shown it to be rich in potent levels of ethanolamides (NAEs), which contribute to feelings of intense bliss, as well as polyphenols and tryptophan.
It is an externalising cacao that brings uplifting, heart-opening bliss and energising clarity. We recommend this cacao for use in ceremonies that involve movement, breathwork, dance, expression, and release, as well as for daily use to support energy, balance, and wellbeing.
It is third-party tested for heavy metals (such as cadmium) and other contaminants.
The cacao that goes into making Amaru is grown by the incredible Rolando.
Rolando is a native Peruvian from the Amazonian jungle who is proudly dedicated to the production of organic and fair-traded cacao. He is pioneering the resurgence of traditional cacao growing and production in the area of Peru, previously heavily affected by drug cartels and the illegal cocaine industry. Rolando has applied his skills and expertise to promoting the image, production, transformation, and quality of Peruvian cacao to put Peru on the world map with artisanal cacao and chocolate production. His push for social sustainability and environmental harmony with cacao farming is bringing big change to an industry that has previously struggled with the exploitation of farmers, communities, and the Amazon jungle. Rolando's cacao represents the courage and perseverance of many farmers who decided to sow the finest cacao in the world, despite facing adversity. They have found in this boldness the hope of transforming their lives through love, working in conditions of equality, justice, and a passion for biodiversity and the environment.
We 100% support the mission of Rolando and his people to Rescue Cacao in Peru and to return the love, respect, environmental protection, and culture that have been lost through global commercialization and corruption in the industry.
The second Ceremonial cacao is Uturunku, Kay Pacha, The Jaguar.
In Chavin cosmovision, the Uturunku (Quecha meaning Jaguar) represents a protector, a guardian, and a being that creates harmony and balance in the Amazon. The Uturunku represents the ‘Kay Pacha’ (the world of the here and now) and reminds us that we are not separate from the natural world. It can also access the Hanan Pacha (world above – spiritual world) and Uku Pacha (inner world – ancestral world) through the master plant cacao. We honor the Chavin culture and the Uturunku with this special ceremonial cacao paste, specifically created to bring you into the Kay Pacha - here and now. It is carefully hand-selected from a unique indigenous form of cacao specially grown for Seleno Health in an artisanal agro-forestry farm deep in the Amazon jungle of Tarapoto, Peru. Each high-vibrational block comes blessed directly from the farm and directly supports the farmers and community who produce it.
This ceremonial cacao is like no other, with their research showing it to be ultra potent in levels of biogenic amines like tryptamine and phenylethylamine (PEA) for feelings of intense satisfaction, embodiment, and spiritual awakening. It also contains high levels of tryptophan for sensations of joy and happiness.
We recommend this cacao for use in ceremonies involving embodiment, sound, meditation, connection, awakening, and for daily ritual to assist with feeling present, connected, improving mental health, clarity, guidance, and mind-body-spirit balance.
It is third-party tested for heavy metals, like cadmium and other contaminants.
This cacao is grown by the amazing Arturo Perez. While growing up in Jaén, Northern Peru, known as the birthplace of cacao, where it was first domesticated approximately 7,500 years ago, Arturo learned about the sacredness and properties behind this special master plant. His dream was to be able to grow cacao in an ancestral way with reverence, love, respect, and tradition to bring this very special cacao to the world. He now spends his time crafting the world's finest ancestral cacao in his farm near Tarapoto, Peru. He is a plant specialist and has incredible ancestral knowledge of the flora and fauna that surround his cacao. A true bushman who thrives in the jungle environment and has such a passion for connecting to Pachamama (mother earth). His cacao, in honor of the tribes of Jaén and central Peru, is called Uturunku - meaning the jaguar, named after the middle world of the Andean-Amazonia trilogy. Each block is crafted with love, following the ancient traditions of his people, who were the first in the world to domesticate cacao. It is a powerful plant that embodies us into the present, connects us to the natural world, and allows us to journey inwards to reconnect and rebirth ourselves.
Biochemical analysis of Seleno Health Ceremonial cacao pastes, by third-party and university labs, showed significantly higher levels of several key compounds compared to regular cacao paste and other cacao-based products (nibs, powder, etc).
How to Make Ceremonial Cacao
Shave or grate 2-3 tablespoons (20-30g) per person into hot water or milk with or without spices (examples: cinnamon, cloves, vanilla, cayenne) and sweetener (coconut sugar, cacao fruit nectar, maple syrup, honey, etc.), and blend or whisk until creamy.
When to use Ceremonial Cacao
For many, the journey of discovery that ceremonial cacao represents is one of profound growth, both internally and externally. There is a sense of awakening and appreciation that is unrivalled. But many times, in an effort to be both respectful and mindful, some people feel uncertain about when to use their ceremonial cacao. Ceremonial cacao is a profoundly personal experience, so while there are some great ideas below, you may feel that there is another way that is best for you, and that is ok!
We know that there is a myriad of applications for your ceremonial cacao. Still, we want to focus on some of our favorite uses to honor the spirit of the ancient knowledge we share:
To honor and awaken your spiritual relationship
To disperse the stresses and unwanted mental load of modern life
To guide you through your journey of awakening your heart
To express and savour gratitude
To refresh the mind
To nourish and build your health and wellbeing
To uplift and satisfy the need for long-term wellbeing and happiness
If you want to engage fully with the benefits that ceremonial cacao can offer you, look through the simple yet effective ways to incorporate it easily into your daily life. You could hold a simple cacao ceremony or use it more elaborately to infuse your entire daily rhythm with an effort towards better overall health, from morning salutations to subtle additions to your menu or meditative practices. There really is no limit to how you can embrace a better internal life, with a host of benefits for your physical being as well.
Who should not use Ceremonial Cacao?
If you have a serious heart condition, have high blood pressure, or hypertension-related issues, it is best to avoid ceremonial cacao. If you take MAOI medications, you should not use ceremonial cacao.
How to hold a ceremonial cacal ceremony
Ceremonial cacao has become incredibly popular in recent years, with many people enjoying the benefits of what this delicious hot drink has to offer. But despite its popularity, many people still don’t fully comprehend the ‘ceremonial’ aspect of cacao. Essentially, it is all about establishing a daily ritual and entering a state of mindfulness, with a focus on gratitude and intention.
While there are many different ways in which you could hold a cacao ceremony, we want to show you the simple cacao ceremony that is perfect for beginners. You don’t need anything fancy to perform a cacao ceremony. It takes just ten to twenty minutes of your time and a willingness to perform it as part of a daily ritual. You can do it alone or with a loved one.
To get the most out of your cacao ceremony, it is best to hold it as soon after you wake up as possible. It is ideal to have this ceremony before getting sucked into your emails or other distractions.
The ceremony can be held in any place in your home that feels comfortable to you. It could be your bedroom, your backyard, or your kitchen. However, it is important that this area is clean and free of distractions before starting the ceremony. Having a comfortable place to sit is always a plus. Many people like to place a cushion or pillow on the floor.
There are many recipes for making ceremonial cacao, which we won’t list here. As you follow one of these recipes, try to enter a fully conscious and mindful state, connecting with each ingredient and each step of the process, giving thanks along the way. Use all of your senses by smelling cacao, feeling its warmth, listening to the morning sounds, and looking out the window.
Sit in a seat and ensure your spine is straight
Lift your cup of cacao to your chest and close your eyes
Set clear intentions for your day
Take a long breath in and a long breath out
Smell your cacao and then lower it back down to your chest
State all that you are grateful for, breathing deeply as you do
Sip your cacao in a conscious, relaxed state of mind
Traditionally, ceremonial cacao is made with a molinillo.
For more in-depth information on how to use ceremonial cacao, click the button below to download the guide!
If cacao resonates with you, there is an amazing online course available to provide a deeper understanding of it.
Ceremonial cacao can provide tremendous benefits, spiritually, mentally, and physically, but only if it’s been produced with respect for ancient traditions and used correctly.
Ceremonial Cacao questions and support
If you have questions about our cacao, email us at info@rooted-nutrition.com and we will be happy to answer them! Don’t forget to check out our Cacao Center for more information on all things cacao.
