Ceremonial cacao (also known as ceremonial grade cacao) is a pure, minimally processed form of 100% cacao traditionally used in cacao ceremonies, rituals and meditation. Unlike most commercial cacao products, ceremonial cacao is made from whole cacao beans and prepared as a rich ceremonial cacao drink that is consumed with intention, not as a casual hot chocolate. At Kakao Tribe, we work with ceremonial cacao as a plant ally used for conscious rituals and inner work rather than an everyday sweet drink. What we mean by “ceremonial grade” cacao For Kakao Tribe, ceremonial grade cacao refers to a clear standard of quality, sourcing and processing. Our ceremonial cacao is: • 100% cacao paste, made from whole cacao beans (nothing added or removed) • Minimally processed to preserve the natural character of cacao • Not alkalised / not Dutch-processed • Selected for clean ingredients, flavour, traceability (origin) and respectful sourcing How ceremonial cacao is traditionally used: Because of this level of purity and care, ceremonial cacao is often preferred for: • cacao rituals and ceremonies • meditation and breathwork • journaling and reflective practices • heart-opening and intention-setting ceremonies At Kakao Tribe, ceremonial cacao is used intentionally, as a supportive plant ally for presence, connection and inner awareness.

Ceremonial cacao is prepared by gently melting cacao paste in warm water or plant milk. The process is slow and mindful, allowing space to set an intention before drinking. At Kakao Tribe, we recommend preparing cacao in a calm environment and treating the preparation itself as part of the ritual.

No. Ceremonial cacao is different from regular cacao powder. Ceremonial cacao: • is made from whole cacao beans • contains natural cacao fats • is minimally processed • is not alkalised (not Dutch-processed) Regular cacao powder is often heavily processed and used mainly for baking. At Kakao Tribe, our ceremonial cacao retains its natural structure and nutritional profile.

A common ceremonial cacao dose is between 20–40 grams, depending on sensitivity and experience. Beginners often start with a smaller amount (15–20 grams). At Kakao Tribe, we encourage listening to your body and adjusting the amount to your personal experience.

Ceremonial cacao is commonly used for: • cacao ceremonies • meditation and mindfulness practices • heart-opening rituals • emotional processing and grounding • intention setting and self-reflection At Kakao Tribe, we see ceremonial cacao as a supportive tool for conscious inner work and presence.

Cacao ceremonies are intentional practices where ceremonial cacao is prepared and consumed in a mindful setting. A typical cacao ceremony may include: • preparing ceremonial cacao slowly and intentionally • setting a personal or group intention • meditation, breathwork or sound • quiet reflection or journaling At Kakao Tribe, we work with ceremonial cacao both as a plant ally for conscious rituals and as a high-quality cacao suitable for mindful everyday use.

With full respect to this plant and the way it is created by the tribes, let us give you, with this pure energy, exactly such pieces as are delivered to the shop, in order to retain the full energy and intentions of those who prepared this wonderful Cacao for you.

Some people enjoy cacao daily, while others prefer using it occasionally. Ceremonial cacao can be consumed regularly in smaller amounts, especially when used as a nourishing morning or afternoon drink rather than a ceremonial dose. At Kakao Tribe, we encourage listening to your body and adjusting frequency and amount to your personal needs.

Ceremonial Cacao is typically made from raw Cacao beans that have not been roasted or processed with high heat. This is done to preserve the nutritional benefits and natural flavours of the Cacao. Excessive heat can damage Ceremonial Cacao, causing it to lose some of its nutritional content, aroma, and flavour. If natural Cacao is heated above 65°C, it can start to lose some of its beneficial antioxidants and enzymes, just like regular Cacao. Therefore, it's important to use a low-temperature process when making Ceremonial Cacao to ensure that the Cacao is not exposed to high heat. This can include using a gentle grinder or blender to process the Cacao, or melting it at a low temperature to create a ceremonial drink. It's worth noting that some Ceremonial Cacao makers may choose to roast their Cacao beans at low temperatures to bring out the flavours and aromas of the beans while still preserving their nutritional benefits. However, this is not always the case, and some Ceremonial Cacao may be completely raw and unheated.

Cacao's heart-opening properties are often attributed to its high levels of theobromine, a mild stimulant that's believed to temporarily boost mood. Most ceremonies also include at least one more modality that helps bring participants into an altered state - meditation, sound baths, dance, singing and many others.

Unlike coffee, which contains a high-concentration of caffeine that stimulates the nervous system, which can give you an alert and jittery “buzz”. Ceremonial Cacao contains an abundance of theobromine that stimulates the cardiovascular system giving you the feeling of a warm and uplifting “whisper”.

No. Ceremonial cacao is not a psychedelic substance. Its effects are subtle and supportive, often described as heart-opening, grounding or mood-enhancing rather than mind-altering. At Kakao Tribe, we describe ceremonial cacao as supportive rather than intoxicating.

Yes. Ceremonial cacao is legal in the UK and can be purchased and consumed as a ceremonial beverage. Kakao Tribe offers ceremonial cacao prepared specifically for ritual and conscious practices.

Yes. Ceremonial cacao can be enjoyed as a healthy cacao drink when prepared mindfully. Cacao naturally contains: • magnesium • iron • antioxidants • theobromine (a gentle stimulant) Many people drink cacao for focus, mood support and overall wellbeing, not only for ceremonies.

Ceremonial cacao is a whole food, not a synthetic supplement. At Kakao Tribe, we view cacao as a nutrient-rich food that can support the body naturally when included as part of a balanced diet.

Typical amounts vary depending on intention: • Everyday use: 10–20g • Ceremonial or ritual use: 20–40g Beginners often start with smaller amounts to understand how cacao affects them.

Cacao contains small amounts of caffeine, but its primary stimulant is theobromine, which provides a gentler, longer-lasting energy without the sharp spikes associated with coffee. Many people choose cacao as a coffee alternative.

Yes. Many people drink cacao for: • mental clarity • gentle focus • creative flow • sustained energy At Kakao Tribe, cacao is used not only in rituals but also before work, creative sessions or journaling.

Ceremonial cacao is generally safe when consumed mindfully. People who are sensitive to stimulants, pregnant, or taking certain medications should start with small amounts and consult a healthcare professional if unsure.

For everyday use, ceremonial cacao can be prepared simply: • melt cacao paste in warm water or plant milk • stir gently • enjoy as a nourishing drink No ceremony is required, intention can be as simple as taking a mindful pause.

No. Cacao does not require a ceremony to be enjoyed. While some people work with cacao ceremonially, others drink it as part of a healthy lifestyle, meditation practice or morning routine. At Kakao Tribe, both approaches are equally valid.

Ceremonial cacao is suitable for: • people interested in mindfulness or meditation • those seeking a healthy cacao drink • individuals reducing coffee intake • creative professionals • people exploring cacao ceremonies It can meet different needs depending on how it is used.

Ceremonial cacao can be purchased online from specialist brands. At Kakao Tribe, we offer ceremonial cacao prepared with care, traceable sourcing and suitability for both ceremonial and everyday use.