Organic Criollo cocoa beans

Organic Criollo cocoa beans are ovoid, dark brown seeds, often called chocolate nuts, that grow on the cocoa tree Theobroma cacao.
The cocoa bean produces cocoa solids, which consist of non-fat components and cocoa butter.

Originating in the Amazon rainforest, these beans are a key ingredient in chocolate production and are used in a variety of delicacies, including the traditional Mexican drink, tehate. But their value is not limited to sweets – cocoa beans have a wide range of culinary, medicinal and even ritual uses.

Ceremonial and cultural significance In some cultures, cacao was used in religious rituals and traditional healing practices. The cacao tree was considered sacred.

Criollo cocoa beans are one of the rarest cocoa varieties, accounting for only about 1% of world production. It originated in Venezuela and Colombia, but today it is also grown in Mexico, Peru, Madagascar, Sri Lanka and the Caribbean. The Maya called Criollo cacao the food of the gods. It is difficult to get a good harvest from these beans because the trees are very sensitive to unfavourable conditions.

Cocoa contains serotonin precursors and phenylethylamine, which can have a positive effect on mood. It is thought to promote feelings of love, happiness and relaxation.
Regular consumption of cocoa can improve cardiovascular health.
Surprising as it may seem, cocoa can help with weight control as it is low in sugar and can satisfy cravings for chocolate without too many extra calories.

Caution
Cocoa beans contain natural caffeine, which in excess can cause anxiety or insomnia.
In rare cases, people may be allergic to cocoa, causing skin rashes or itching.

Uses of cocoa beans
The most important use is in chocolate production. The beans are harvested, fermented, dried, roasted and ground to produce cocoa mass, cocoa butter and cocoa powder.

Cocoa beans are both crunchy and soft, so they can be eaten in the same way. They can also be crushed or ground into a powder used in cooking. Roasted beans are less bitter.
Cocoa beans are used to make cocoa powder, which is used to make hot cocoa and other chocolate drinks.
Baking uses cocoa nibs or cocoa powder to give cakes and desserts a rich chocolate flavour.

Sources:
onegreenplanet.org
webmd.com

NOTE. The information provided here does not constitute a recommendation for treatment or other health solutions. Please make individual health decisions based on a variety of information sources.