Showing 1–12 of 13 results

Showing 1–12 of 13 results

Ceremonial Cacao: A Journey into Tradition and Spirit

At Maya Herbs, we honor the rich heritage of ceremonial cacao—a sacred gift revered for centuries among indigenous cultures of the Americas. This category of cacao products allows you to explore a range of offerings crafted for traditional ceremonies, daily rituals, and wellness practices, all sourced from sustainable, ethical producers in the heart of the Amazon and beyond.

Harvested with Care – Ancestral and Artisanal Process

The cacao used in our ceremonial wafers is harvested by hand using ancestral and artisanal methods, passed down through generations. Farmers wait for the pods to ripen naturally on the tree before harvesting them with machetes or long-handled tools to avoid damaging the branches. Once harvested, the pods are carefully opened, and the beans are extracted by hand and placed in wooden boxes or leaf-covered baskets to begin the natural fermentation process—a crucial step for flavor and energetic integrity.

Drying the beans

After several days of fermentation, the beans are sun-dried slowly to preserve their full spectrum of nutrients and subtle compounds. This traditional, chemical-free approach ensures that every wafer you receive holds not just flavor and nutrition—but the living essence of the plant and the land it comes from.

Rooted in Relationships – Our Global Partnerships

At Maya, we believe in more than just sourcing ingredients—we believe in cultivating long-term relationships with the farmers, families, and cooperatives that grow and prepare our plants.

Harvesting cacao pods

Our ceremonial cacao is the result of years of collaboration with trusted partners in Colombia and Peru, where we work directly with smallholder communities who honor the sacredness of cacao as both a crop and a living spirit.

These partnerships go beyond commerce: we invest in fair pay, local autonomy, and preservation of traditional practices. By working closely with these communities, we ensure not only exceptional quality but also mutual respect, cultural integrity, and sustainable impact.

The Significance of Ceremonial Cacao

Ceremonial cacao holds a special place in indigenous practices, valued for its ability to open the heart, enhance spiritual connection, and promote emotional healing. Derived from raw cacao beans, ceremonial cacao is minimally processed, preserving the pure essence of the theobroma cacao plant. In Mayan and Aztec traditions, ceremonial cacao was seen as a sacred plant used in various rituals to commune with divine energies and foster inner peace.

At Maya Herbs, our ceremonial-grade cacao comes from trusted indigenous farmers who uphold traditional cultivation practices. Each product in this category, from cacao bars to tinctures, brings you closer to the authentic experience of this remarkable plant.

Our Selection of Ceremonial Cacao Products

Ceremonial Cacao Bars

Perfect for traditional ceremonies or personal rituals, our ceremonial cacao bars are sourced from Colombia and crafted to retain the full potency of raw cacao. We offer several unique blends to cater to different spiritual needs:

  • Ashwagandha Ceremonial Cacao: This blend combines the heart-opening effects of cacao with the grounding properties of Ashwagandha, ideal for calming the mind and easing stress.
  • Blue Lotus Ceremonial Cacao: Infused with Blue Lotus, known for its calming and euphoric qualities, this blend is designed to deepen meditation and promote relaxation.
  • Open Heart Ceremonial Cacao: Crafted to foster emotional connection and self-love, this pure cacao blend enhances the heart-opening experience of ceremonial cacao.
  • Red Kratom Ceremonial Cacao: A blend that combines the energizing properties of Red Kratom with the soothing effects of cacao, supporting both focus and relaxation.

Organic Cacao Blocks (Theobroma Cacao – Criollo Variety)

Our 5kg organic cacao blocks come from the Criollo variety of theobroma cacao, sourced sustainably from Peru’s Rio Abiseo National Park. This premium-quality raw cacao is sold in 5kg blocks, ideal for large ceremonies or for creating your own cacao preparations. Known for its smooth, rich flavor and high nutrient content, this organic cacao is a versatile and valuable addition to any ritual.

Cacao Powdered Beans

Our powdered cacao, sourced from Ghana, is an accessible form of raw cacao that retains all the beneficial properties of the whole bean. This fine powder is perfect for those who wish to incorporate the benefits of cacao into their daily routines, whether in smoothies, baking, or a traditional cacao drink.

Cacao Tinctures and Elixirs

Our range of cacao tinctures provides a concentrated form of cacao’s healing properties:

Common Questions about Ceremonial Cacao

What is ceremonial cacao?

Ceremonial cacao is pure, minimally processed cacao made from high-quality beans, traditionally prepared and intentionally used for ritual, meditation, and heart-centered practices. Unlike commercial chocolate or cacao powders, ceremonial cacao is 100% whole-bean cacao mass, retaining all the natural fats, alkaloids, and active compounds that make it both nourishing and energetically potent.

It’s called “ceremonial” not only because of its use in sacred settings, but because of the way it’s grown, harvested, and prepared—with care, respect, and reverence for the spirit of the plant. True ceremonial cacao is sourced from ancestral cacao-growing regions, such as Peru and Colombia, using heirloom varieties like Criollo, which are known for their low bitterness and rich, complex flavor.

Ceremonial cacao contains naturally high levels of theobromine, a gentle cardiovascular stimulant that increases blood flow and promotes feelings of openness and clarity. It also carries anandamide (the “bliss molecule”) and PEA (the “love chemical”), contributing to enhanced mood, emotional release, and subtle euphoria. Many people use it as a tool for creative work, inner exploration, spiritual connection, or simply as a nourishing, grounding ritual.

More than just a superfood, ceremonial cacao is a plant teacher—a gentle yet powerful ally for those walking the path of consciousness, healing, and connection to nature.

How do you prepare ceremonial cacao?

To prepare ceremonial cacao, simply melt or blend a portion of raw cacao bar or block with hot water. Add natural spices like cinnamon or chili if desired. This traditional method preserves the integrity and heart-opening effects of cacao.

What is the difference between cacao and cocoa?

Cacao refers to the raw or minimally processed beans from the cacao tree, theobroma cacao, while cocoa is typically a more processed version, often roasted and used in confectionery. Ceremonial cacao retains more nutrients and is more suitable for spiritual and wellness practices.

What are the benefits of ceremonial cacao?

Ceremonial cacao is believed to have numerous health benefits, including enhanced focus, relaxation, and heart-opening effects that support emotional healing. Cacao is rich in antioxidants, magnesium, and mood-boosting compounds, making it a valuable addition to both spiritual and wellness routines.

How to Do a Cacao Ceremony

A cacao ceremony is a beautiful way to connect with yourself, your heart, and the spirit of the cacao plant. Whether practiced alone or in a group, it’s a space for intention, reflection, and transformation. Here’s a simple guide to help you begin:

🧉 1. Prepare Your Cacao

  • Use 25–42g of ceremonial cacao per person (about 5–8 wafers).

  • Melt it gently in hot (not boiling) water or plant milk, stirring continuously.

  • Optional: Add spices like cinnamon, cayenne, or cardamom, and a natural sweetener if desired.

  • Blend well until smooth and creamy.

💗 2. Set the Space

  • Find a quiet, comfortable space where you won’t be disturbed.

  • Light a candle, burn some incense, or play soft music to create a sacred atmosphere.

  • Bring in objects that are meaningful to you (crystals, feathers, flowers, etc.).

🌿 3. Set Your Intention

  • Before drinking, take a moment to connect with the cacao.

  • Hold your cup with both hands and tune into your heart.

  • Silently or aloud, speak your intention—what you wish to release, receive, or reflect on.

🕊️ 4. Drink Slowly and Mindfully

  • Sip the cacao slowly, allowing its warmth and energy to move through you.

  • Stay present with the experience—observe your thoughts, sensations, and emotions.

  • Let the cacao guide you gently inward.

✨ 5. Integrate with Practice

  • Follow your cup with practices like:

    • Meditation or breathwork

    • Journaling

    • Dance or movement

    • Creative expression (art, music, poetry)

    • Sharing in circle if in a group setting

🌌 6. Close the Ceremony

  • Give thanks to the cacao spirit and the Earth.

  • Sit in silence or offer a short prayer or song.

  • Carry your intention with you as you move back into your day or night.

Cacao doesn’t require elaborate rituals to be effective. What matters most is your intention and presence. Over time, your relationship with the plant will deepen, and your ceremonies will become a powerful tool for transformation and connection.

Embrace the Tradition with Maya Herbs

Cacao is much more than a flavorful treat; it’s a plant with a profound history, cultural significance, and powerful healing properties. At Maya Herbs, we’re committed to honoring this legacy by offering organic cacao, raw cacao, and ceremonial cacao products from theobroma cacao that allow you to experience the authentic energy and spirit of this sacred plant.