The ceremonial use of cacao dates back centuries, to times when Indigenous peoples lived in deep connection with nature and the Earth. Cacao was honored as a plant medicine for physical, emotional, and spiritual healing.

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Cacao in clay vessels
As early as 600 BC, cacao was already being consumed. Archaeological excavations in Honduras revealed traces of cacao in ancient pottery, showing that this sacred drink has been part of human ritual life for thousands of years.

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Indigenous traditions
Civilizations such as the Toltecs, Olmecs, Aztecs, and Maya have used cacao as a sacred drink since at least 460 AD, valuing it for its medicinal and spiritual properties.

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Spanish colonization
When Spanish conquistadors arrived in the 16th century, they brought cacao back to Europe, where it quickly became known as a health drink. Unfortunately, during its journey west, much of cacao’s deep spiritual and ceremonial context was lost.

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From sacred medicine to luxury treat
The spiritual traditions of Indigenous peoples were often dismissed as superstition. Over time in Europe, cacao transformed into a luxury product for the elite. Evolving into chocolate, enriched with sugar and other additions.

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Despite colonization and the losses endured, Indigenous communities fought to preserve their culture and traditions. Thanks to their resilience, there are still generations today who continue to pass down this sacred knowledge.