Organic cacao is the raw, minimally processed form of chocolate, and it's one of the most nutrient-dense superfoods on earth. Unlike processed chocolate, it keeps its natural antioxidants, minerals and mood-lifting compounds. People love it for a better mood, a healthy heart, sharper focus and a natural dose of magnesium. Here's why it's in every scoop of our Signature Mushroom Coffee Blend.
The food of the gods
Cacao's scientific name, Theobroma cacao, means "food of the gods." The Maya and Aztecs revered it, drinking it in ceremonies, offering it to their gods and even using cacao beans as money. Ceremonial cacao is still a ritual for many people today.
One modern story stands out. The Kuna people of the San Blas islands off Panama drink several cups of homemade cocoa a day, and they have remarkably low blood pressure that doesn't rise with age the way it does for most people. When Kuna moved to the mainland and stopped drinking their traditional cocoa, their blood pressure rose. Harvard researcher Dr. Norman Hollenberg studied the Kuna and pointed to the flavanols in their minimally processed cocoa (NutraIngredients). The Kuna's diet and lifestyle play a part too, but it's a striking example of cacao in daily life.
6 benefits of organic cacao
1. Rich in antioxidants
Organic cacao is one of the top food sources of antioxidants, especially flavonoids, which protect your body from free radical damage, support a healthy inflammatory response and support heart health.
2. A natural mood booster
Cacao is often called nature's mood booster. It contains natural compounds like theobromine, phenylethylamine (PEA) and anandamide, sometimes called the "bliss molecule," which support serotonin and dopamine in the brain. A little cacao is a delicious, natural way to lift your mood, ease stress and promote a sense of well-being.
3. Supports heart health
Cacao's flavonoids support healthy blood flow, healthy blood pressure already within a normal range and healthy cholesterol levels, supporting your cardiovascular system as a whole.
4. Sharper focus and memory
Cacao is a brain-boosting superfood. Its flavonoids support blood flow to the brain, which supports memory, focus and mental clarity, and helps keep your mind sharp as you age.
5. Essential minerals
Cacao is rich in magnesium, iron, potassium and calcium. Magnesium is especially important for muscle function, energy and relaxation, and many people don't get enough. See Magnesium Glycinate Benefits.
6. Supports healthy weight management
Despite its rich flavor, cacao can support weight management in moderation. Theobromine supports a healthy metabolism, and cacao's natural fiber helps you feel full longer, making cravings easier to manage.
Cacao vs. cocoa
Cacao is minimally processed and keeps more of its natural nutrients. Cocoa powder is usually roasted at higher heat, and "Dutch-processed" cocoa is treated with an alkali that strips out much of the flavanol content. For the most benefits, choose organic cacao.
How to use cacao
- In coffee: a natural mocha with no syrups. See our cacao coffee recipe.
- In smoothies with banana and nut butter.
- As ceremonial cacao: whisked into warm milk with cinnamon.
- In baking and energy bites.
Cacao in our Signature Mushroom Coffee Blend
We put organic cacao in every scoop of our Signature Mushroom Coffee Blend for its flavor and its natural polyphenols, alongside organic Arabica coffee, 8:1 fruiting-body extracts of lion's mane, cordyceps, chaga and tremella, Alpha-GPC, L-theanine, organic ginkgo and a full gram of organic Irish sea moss. It gives every cup a smooth, gently chocolatey finish, with no sweeteners or fillers. Every batch is third-party tested for mold, mycotoxins, glyphosate and heavy metals.
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Frequently asked questions
What are the benefits of cacao?
Cacao is rich in antioxidants and magnesium and supports mood, heart health, focus and healthy weight management.
Is cacao better than cocoa?
Cacao is less processed and keeps more nutrients. Dutch-processed cocoa loses much of its flavanols.
Does cacao have caffeine?
A little, plus theobromine, a gentler stimulant that gives a smooth lift.
Is cacao good in coffee?
Yes. It adds a natural chocolate flavor and extra antioxidants with no sugar.
How much cacao should I have a day?
Many people enjoy 1 to 2 tablespoons of cacao powder a day.