Ceremonial Cacao is a powerful plant medicine that can help us connect to creativity, inner wisdom, and purpose. It can soften our defenses, promote clarity of mind, and open the heart so we can receive with greater abundance. Used ceremonially for thousands of years by Indigenous peoples of Central and South America, cacao is seen as sacred and used to heal, mark life events, and commune with the divine.

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Ceremonial-grade cacao uses the whole bean. It is pure, minimally processed, and far more potent than commercial chocolate. Its active ingredient, theobromine, "the food of the gods", is a heart-opening stimulant that enhances blood flow, clarity, and emotional release. Ancient Mesoamerican cultures believed cacao was gifted by the gods; Mayan mythology says it was given to humanity after creation.

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Another key compound, anandamide, the "bliss molecule", naturally occurs in both ceremonial cacao and the human body, enhancing joy, complex thinking, and euphoria. It’s also found in high concentrations during the moment the embryo settles into the womb, linking cacao to fertility and creative energy.

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What to Expect in Ceremony

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My cacao ceremonies support deep inner work, movement, sound healing, creativity, and emotional release.

Ceremonies are shaped by seasonal, lunar, or life themes and can include guided journeys, movement, yoga, qi gong, singing circles, and sound healing with live instruments. Each person is supported to move at their own pace. In 1:1 sessions, the experience is tailored to your needs.​

 

Preparing for Ceremony

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Eat a clean, alkaline-based diet for 24 hours before and after (avoid caffeine, dairy, and alcohol). Allow gentle time pre- and post-ceremony to process insights and emotions.​

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Is Ceremonial Cacao Safe for Me?

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Cacao is generally safe but must be approached with care, especially for those with certain health conditions or on medication. It is mildly psychoactive but non-hallucinogenic. It increases serotonin and blood flow to the heart and brain by up to 40%.

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Important contraindications include:

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• MAOI antidepressants (cacao is completely contraindicated)

• SSRIs or other antidepressants – use a half-dose

• Epilepsy – risk of stimulation; discuss with your practitioner

• St John's Wort – stop use a few days before and after

• Antipsychotic medication – ceremonial cacao is not recommended

• 5-HTP supplements – lower dose advised

• Heart conditions or low blood pressure – smaller dose may be safer

• Pregnant or breastfeeding – smaller dose recommended; traditionally consumed safely by Mayan women

• Caffeine or theobromine sensitivity – start with a lower dose

• Allergies or migraines triggered by cacao compounds – notify practitioner and adjust accordingly

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Ceremonial cacao is a sacred and deeply transformative plant medicine. When approached with intention, awareness, and reverence, it has the power to open the heart, awaken creativity, and offer profound insight. However, it’s essential to honour its potency, especially if you have certain health conditions or take medications. Always consult with an experienced indigenous practitioner or someone formally trained in cacao medicine to ensure it’s safe and aligned for your journey.

It's also important to be mindful of how the term "ceremonial grade" is often used today. In many cases, it has become a marketing label without a true understanding of its cultural roots or spiritual significance. The cacao I work with comes directly from trusted farmers, ensuring integrity, authenticity, and respect for its origin.

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When used consciously, cacao can guide you to profound insight, creativity, and connection to your heart.​