Organic Cacao Seeds Bolivia of the unique Beniano variety are wild harvested in Beni, in northeastern Bolivia. This particular variety of cocoa, which has thrived in the Amazon forest for hundreds of years, is pure and unaffected by cross-breeding with other varieties, making it a rare and highly sought-after variety among connoisseurs of cocoa. These beans are often used in ceremonial contexts. The local communities see the rainforest and its cocoa resources as common property, and manage them through collective decision-making. The harvesting of these wild cocoa beans is done manually from January to March, without machine tools, which benefits the biodiversity of the rainforest and underlines the special status of this wild cocoa.

El Ceibo

In Bolivia, cocoa grows naturally in the forests of Beni, Cochabamba and northern La Paz. These cocoa beans are supplied by El Ceibo, a second-level cooperative founded in 1977 by 12 grassroots cooperatives. El Ceibo brings together more than 1,200 small farmers dedicated to the organic cultivation of cocoa in the Alto Beni region. Since its founding in 1977, the cooperative has worked to improve the livelihood of its members. For many years, El Ceibo, in collaboration with PIAF (Program for the Implementation of Agroecology and Forestry), has promoted the cultivation of cocoa in agroforestry plantation systems. Here cocoa is grown in combination with fruit crops, medicinal plants and timber.

Ingredients

100% Organic Cacao Seeds / beans from Bolivia

Operation

• Antioxidant Powerhouse.
• Natural Mood Booster.
• Promotes Heart Health.
• Rich in Minerals.
• Improved Brain Function.

Use

Cocoa beans are versatile in use. You can make homemade chocolate with them, or grind them and add them to smoothies, pancakes, granola or yogurt. It is recommended to consume no more than 10-15 grams of cocoa beans daily.

Ceremonial Use

Here is a general guide to preparing cocoa beans for ceremonial use, as used in various traditional and contemporary ceremonies:

1. Cleaning
   Begin with a physical and energetic cleansing of the space, yourself, and the cocoa beans. This may include smoke of white sage, palo santo or another cleansing ritual. For the beans themselves, a simple rinse under running water can suffice, with the intention of cleansing them of any negative energies.
2. Roasting
   Roasting cocoa beans helps the flavors develop and makes it easier to remove the husk. Lightly roast the beans over low heat while keeping your attention and intention on the process and the upcoming ceremony. Keep stirring constantly to prevent burning.
3. Peeling
   After roasting, let the beans cool. Next, peel off the skin of each bean. This can be done manually, sometimes rolling the beans lightly between your hands or on a clean cloth to make the process easier.
4. Grind
   The shelled beans can then be ground into a fine paste. This can be done with a manual grinder, a stone grinder or a modern food processor. The intention and attention during this process are crucial to preserving the spiritual qualities of the cocoa.
5. Preparation of the Beverage
   Mix the cocoa paste with hot water (do not use boiling water, as this may damage the active ingredients) and stir well. Traditionally, no sweeteners are added to this, but depending on the specific ceremony and personal preference, honey, chili, vanilla, or other natural ingredients can be added to enrich the experience.
6. Intention and Prayer
   Before the cocoa is served, say an intention or prayer over the drink. This is a time to invoke the spirit of cocoa and ask for permission and blessings for the ceremony.
7. Consumption
   The cocoa drink is drunk in a ceremonial context, often in a circle and accompanied by a facilitator or shaman. Participants may be encouraged to meditate on their intention, share in a circle, or participate in other ritual practices.
8. It is important to remember that respect for cocoa and the cultures that have used this sacred plant for centuries is central to any ceremony. Ceremonial use of cocoa is a powerful way to connect with your heart, with others, and with the earth.

Always consult your doctor before adding foods of high nutritional value to your diet. Store this product for up to 18 months in the original container, preferably in a cool and dry place.

Contents

100% Organic Cacao Seeds Bolivia – 200 grams.