the heart of the earth
El corazón de la tierra
Cacao, an ancient tree, is the heartbeat of the Earth. She brings energy and wisdom from the Earth (Pachamama) and is present within everything. Through the connection of sacred cacao ritual, we are introduced to the magic and wisdom of Pachamama, allowing us to open our hearts, to love ourselves and to fill ourselves so that we are able to give more.
When we sit with cacao, we are sitting with an old soul, an ancient being - taking in the natural environment, vibration and frequency of the jungle and all its teachings. Cacao trees do not need to produce fruit - she can exist completely by herself. Cacao is her gift to the world and her way to interact with us.
The cacao of Northern Thailand
Hidden within the tapestry of jungle covered mountains in the north, lies an unknown offering. Growing nestled in the tranquillity of the dense forest, which resonates a gentle and soft frequency lies an abundance of cacao. The hill tribes of the north have been cultivating cacao for over 400 years, and it has become a sacred part of their culture. Until recently, cacao was not generally sought after outside of the hill tribes, and the traditions and methods of cultivation still remain discreet to this day. Cacao plays an important part in the communities in the mountains, who come together centred around cacao and its craft and artistry.
Embracing the growing international trend of speciality, craft chocolate (and pure ceremonial cacao) Thailand has placed itself as one of the best, yet still unknown sources of cacao. Floresta Cacao holds the vibration and frequency of the northern jungles; one that is soft, inviting and gentle to the heart. Our cacao offers subtle earthy notes on the palate, balanced with with gentle sweet and floral tasting notes. Our raw cacao has deeper notes reminiscent of rich plums and apricot.
In Collaboration with the Lisu hill tribe
I am honoured to support, co-create%and share this incredible cacao with a Lisu family from the mountains of northern Thailand. Our cacao comes from a women owned and operated cacao garden, tended to with love and reverence for the trees and jungle they are nestled in.
Our collaboration began in 2021 when I was based full time in Thailand and whilst searching for cacao, came across the gardens located north of Chiang Mai. Sharing our knowledge, love of cacao and the love for lands of the north, I immediately felt a need to assist in their offering of this potent cacao within and beyond Thailand.
Floresta Cacao is a micro business led by the heart. The intent is to support this family's vision and passion though the sale of cacao. Floresta cacao is single origin, coming solely from their cacao gardens and made in small batches honouring ancient traditions and craft using natural methods such as banana leaf and teak trunks for the fermentation of the beans before being ground in small batches.
When you purchase ceremonial cacao from us you are directly supporting the Lisu family, the hill tribes, their culture and presence in Thailand. Before it arrives in your hands it is at my home in the jungle, just a few hours north of the cacao gardens, where it is packaged with prayers and blessings. I then bring the cacao myself to the UK to share with you.
Benefits of Drinking Cacao
Mood
Mood-enhancing compounds improve brain function, increase serotonin levels, and stimulate the release of dopamine and endorphins in the body promoting feelings of well-being and calm
Spiritual Growth
A powerful heart opener, Cacao can help you connect to yourself, heal emotional blockages, and support your spiritual growth
Energy
Theobromine supports and enhances levels of energy without jitters or a crash by a gentle stimulation of the cardiovascular system
Superfood
Rich in iron, amino acids, minerals and flavonoids, Cacao can help improve blood flow, reduce inflammation, and lower blood pressure leading to better cardiovascular health
Sleep
Cacao is abundant in magnesium to relax and soothe the muscles, amino acids which promote serotonin to soothe and calm the mind for a better night rest
Micro-farming
Floresta Cacao works directly with a small family who owns the Cacao gardens where our Cacao is made by hand, bean to bar. By supporting us, you are supporting the Lisu Hill Tribe in Northern Thailand and their livelihood
