In the tapestry of human history, few symbols evoke such a profound sense of love and connection as cacao. Beyond its physical quality, cacao serves as a catalyst, inspiring people to share treasured moments, express affection, and forge deeper bonds.

In this exploration, we unravel the mystique of cacao as a symbol of love, tracing its journey from ancient ceremonies to modern-day expressions of intimacy and devotion.

—

Cacao - A Symbol of Love

A symbol of connection, culture, family, ancestry, and love. Like its decadent flavor, cacao carries an essence of richness that has been considered sacred since its inception. Cacao’s symbolism is woven throughout time, starting in Mesoamerica and powerfully persisting into contemporary times.

Food of the Gods in Ancient Cultures   

Although there’s considerable debate surrounding its beginnings, it’s widely believed that cacao fruit was first cultivated by the Olmec people, a thriving indigenous civilization in the Gulf of Mexico region from 1600 to 350 BCE, with some descendants still flourishing there today. Although the Olmecs were the earliest known cultivators of this tree, the therapeutic and ceremonial significance of cacao flourished within the Aztec, Toltec, and Mayan cultures.

The term “cacao” comes from the Mayan word “ka’kau,” meaning “heart blood,” and its scientific name, Theobroma cacao, comes from the ancient Greeks, meaning “food of the gods.” 

Apart from its therapeutic heart-supporting properties, the Mayans recognized that the cacao spirit, consumed as a drink, encouraged a sacred, energetic connection to the heart space - individual and collective. Preparing cacao was an arduous labor of love (and still is!) and a social endeavor deeply ingrained in Mayan and Aztec cultural identity. The deep adoration and respect for sipping cacao can be seen in ancient artistic depictions of the Mayan gods and marriage rituals.   

Europe’s Love for Cacao

When the Spanish arrived in Mesoamerica in the 16th century, cacao trees lined the riverbanks of the Mayan civilization. Accounts of Aztec rulers drinking tens of cups of cacao were documented, and after recognizing the deep-rooted value of cacao (more precious than gold), the Spanish brought cacao beans back to Europe, where it quickly became a cherished commodity.

Sipping cacao was passionately embraced in Spain, and its reputation as an aphrodisiac grew as it traveled across Europe to Italy, France, and beyond. It was fondly referred to as the “elixir of love” and was only enjoyed by those who could afford its luxury. In 1847, a British chocolate maker transformed the drink into the decadent chocolate bars we know today.  

And although chocolate evolved from cacao, the Western perspective of chocolate created further distance from cacao’s true essence. In a ceremonial cacao ritual, sipping cacao is blessed with intentions of love, harmony, and expansion - from the farmer who grew it to the person serving in the ceremony. It’s honored as a gift with resonant energy and not just a delicious treat.      

Cacao’s Therapeutic Benefits  

Many believe there is an aphrodisiacal effect that comes from a dopamine release when consuming cacao. Cacao’s main active constituent is theobromine, and it has undeniable heart-opening, cognitive-boosting, and mood-supporting properties. This suggests that it has an energetic and physical effect on the cardiovascular system. 

Cacao also contains caffeine, which acts as a stimulant and increases blood flow, making the heart beat faster. A sure way to raise your vibrations. 

Make a Ceremonial Cacao to Warm Your Heart

To illuminate the inner wisdom of our ancestors, we invite you to work with ceremonial cacao to embody the power of love and honor the spirit of this harmonious medicine.

Enjoy a cup as an expression of self-love, with a loved one, or gathered together with friends. Ceremonial cacao combined with stress-supporting therapeutic mushrooms and nourishing herbs is a heart-loving and gentle combination. You’ll feel the joy with every sip.

Yield: 1 rich and decadent serving. 

MATERIALS

• 1 cup distilled water
• 2 tablespoons Make & Mary’s Armonía Cacao Hemp Tea loose-leaf blend
• 1 serving of Soul Lift 100% Ceremonial Cacao 
• ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom
• ¼ teaspoon ground cayenne (optional) 
• 1 dropperful Make & Mary Mush Love Elixir
• A few dried rose petals (to garnish) 

DIRECTIONS

• In a pot, heat the water until boiling.
• Remove from heat, then add the Armonía Cacao Hemp Tea and let steep for 20 to 30 minutes, covered. 
• Strain the liquid from the herbs.
• Transfer liquid back to the clean pot and reheat over medium heat. Add the ceremonial cacao, cardamom, and cayenne (optional) and whisk until well combined. 
• Remove from heat and add Make & Mary Mush Love Elixir. 
• Cover and let cool for 10 minutes until warm. 
• Pour into a mug and top with dried rose petals.  

To honor the cacao, set an intention before indulging in your Symbol of Love beverage. Then take in a breath of gratitude, thank the cacao for its heart-opening gifts, and share a moment of silence to let the cacao’s energy disperse.

Honoring an Everlasting Ritual

Cacao has been through centuries of transformation, but at the heart of this natural gift lies a bond that can be cultivated at any time. Honoring cacao’s historical past brings its sacredness into the present and teaches us to hold gratitude and love at the forefront of our minds, body, and spirit. Sip, feel bliss, and share the magic.

—

At Make & Mary our founder, Yvonne host Cacao Ceremonies regularly. If you live in Portland, check our events page for the next one coming up.