Raw cacao has long been cherished by ancient civilisations for its profound benefits. Aztecs and Mayans notably used cacao in their rituals and celebrations, regarding it as sacred. To this day, you will find people utilising cacao in ceremonies, believing it to be grounding and heart opening.
Besides its distinct taste, what makes raw cacao so special? The answer lies in its health benefits.
What is Raw Cacao?
Before we get into the health benefits of raw cacao, it’s important to first draw the distinction between cocoa and raw cacao.
The difference between raw cacao and regular cocoa lies primarily in their processing methods and nutrient retention. Raw cacao is the least processed form. It is made by cold-pressing unroasted cacao beans, which preserves most of the natural antioxidants and nutrients like magnesium. On the other hand, cocoa is derived from roasted cacao beans, undergoing higher heat. This diminishes some of these vital nutrients but results in a smoother, more familiar chocolate taste.
The bottom line is, raw cacao is the most nutrient-dense option from all the forms out there.
Health Benefits of Raw Cacao
Since the Aztecs and Mayans to the modern day, raw cacao has been revered as a superfood, some even going as far to call it “Food for the Gods”. Consequently, a lot of people may be asking: why is raw cacao healthy?
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Raw Cacao is High in Nutrients
Cacao is a powerhouse of essential nutrients. It is an excellent source of magnesium, a mineral that plays a crucial role in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body, including muscle and nerve function, blood sugar control, and blood pressure regulation . It also provides iron, antioxidants, and dietary fibre, making it a valuable addition to a balanced diet. Makes sense why people call cacao a superfood!
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Raw Cacao May Improve Heart Health
Scientific studies have shown that cacao is rich in polyphenols, particularly flavonoids, which have potent antioxidant effects. These compounds help combat oxidative stress, reduce inflammation, and support heart health.
Most notably, some studies have shown that cacao consumption helps improve blood flow, reducing hypertension and risk of heart disease (1).
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Raw Cacao May Improve Mood
We know that cacao can serve as a perfect pick-me-up whenever we’re feeling low. But did you know that there’s some science behind this?
This is because it contains compounds like theobromine and anandamide, often referred to as the "bliss molecule," which can help elevate mood and promote relaxation. This makes raw cacao an ideal food for managing stress and supporting mental well-being.
Additionally, raw cacao is known to boost serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin is the neurotransmitter responsible for feelings of happiness and relaxation, making cacao a natural mood enhancer. In fact, one 2023 study found that cacao significantly reduced stress and negative emotions in middle-aged women over 8 weeks (2).
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Raw Cacao May Enhance Cognitive Function
Raw cacao may also play a key role in supporting cognitive health. Cacao's rich concentration of flavonoids, particularly epicatechin, enhances brain function by improving blood flow to the brain
This increased circulation supports cognitive processes such as memory and learning.
One study found that regular consumption of flavonoid-rich foods like cacao can improve cognitive function,particularly in ageing adults, and may even reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's (3).
How to Incorporate Raw Cacao Into Your Routine
Ready to dig into some raw cacao after reading about those benefits? Same here.
Raw cacao is versatile and can be easily incorporated into your diet. Whether through cacao powder in smoothies, added to oatmeal, or enjoyed in nourishing snacks like Oh Lily’s Aztec Treasure, there are plenty of ways to reap its benefits.
For a truly relaxing experience, pair a cacao-infused snack like Aztec Treasure with Amphi Botanicals’ Unwind Blend in the evening. This simple ritual can help you wind down after a long day and prepare your body for restful sleep, while fueling your body with all the wonderful antioxidants mentioned above.
About the Author
Yasmeen is the founder of Amphi Botanicals, a wellness brand focused on creating natural functional blends that support holistic health. With a BSc in Nutrition and a passion for science-backed wellness, Yasmeen combines her expertise in nutrition with a deep understanding of adaptogens and botanicals. Her journey began in Beirut and continued through her MSc in Entrepreneurship at UCL, now based in the UK, where she’s dedicated to helping people live healthier, more balanced lives. Her brand, Amphi Botanicals, emphasises authenticity, using only the best ingredients to nourish both body and mind.ularly in ageing adults, and may even reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's (3).