Cacao and why it’s not just good for your health but great for you skin!!
Since it is Easter weekend I thought I would write a little bit about the amazing benefits of cacao.
Firstly what is the difference between cacao and cocoa. It is really simple but extremely important.
What is Cacao?
Cacao is the rawest form of chocolate. It is the least processed and purest, meaning it retains most of its nutrients. It comes from the cacao fruit tree also known as Theobroma Cacao and that is how you will see it listed in cosmetic ingredients. The tree produces pods that are opened to reveal the cacao beans. The cacao butter (another loved ingredient) is the fattiest part of the fruit making up its outer lining. This is removed and the remaining part of the fruit is either cold pressed to produce cacao powder or chopped into cacao nibs.
Cacao is thought to be higher in antioxidants and magnesium then any other food. It's an excellent source of fibre, monosaturated fats, vitamins and minerals.
Cacao, also known as cocoa, is a food source that is rich in polyphenols. Polyphenols are antioxidants that can help to protect the body against damage from free radicals. Free radicals are unstable mo
lecules that can cause cell damage, and they have been linked to a number of health conditions, including cancer. Studies have shown that cacao can help to reduce the risk of some types of cancer, and it may also help to protect the body against other diseases.
Cacao is a nutritional powerhouse, providing a wide range of important nutrients and antioxidants that can benefit human health. Theobromine, for example, is a compounds found in cacao that has been shown to have mood-boosting and stress-reducing effects. Cacao also contains flavonoids, which are plant-based compounds with potent antioxidant activity. Flavonoids have been linked to improved cardiovascular health, reduced inflammation, and enhanced cognitive function.
Cacao extract is a rich source of antioxidants, which help to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause cell damage, leading to premature aging and disease. Antioxidants help to neutralize free radicals, preventing them from causing harm. Cacao also contains a variety of other nutrients including magnesium, iron and calcium.
Cacao contains high levels of antioxidants, which can improve heart health and lower blood pressure. The flavonoids in Cacao can also help to reduce inflammation and improve cognitive function. Cacao sugar is a type of sugar that is made from the cacao bean. It has a unique flavour that is similar to chocolate. It can be used in baking, as a sweetener, or as a topping for desserts. It is also a good source of antioxidants.
So, if you're looking for a delicious way to boost your health, reach for some cacao! Whether you enjoy it in the form of dark chocolate, cocoa powder, or cacao nibs, you'll be getting a nutritious treat that your body will love.
Where does it come from?
Cocoa comes from the same place the only difference is the beans have gone through the extra process of being heated. Although still good for you this process unfortunately destroys a lot of the living enzymes in the plant making it an inferior product to its raw un-roasted version.
So why should I put it on my face?
Cacao is not only delicious, but it also has many benefits for the skin. Cacao is a superfood that is incredibly packed with nutrition. It is high in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that can have amazing health benefits too.
The antioxidants present in cacao help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, while the fatty acids present in cacao adds nutrition can help to nourish and moisturize the skin.
In addition, cacao contains compounds that can help to increase blood flow to the skin, which can give the skin a healthy glow.
So, if you are looking for a natural way to improve your skin health, consider adding cacao to your diet or using cacao products on your skin. So we have already learnt that cacao is high in antioxidants. It is the same group found in green tea and red wine. Amazingly raw organic cacao has 40 times the antioxidants of blueberries. Antioxidants defend your body against free radicals which damage our cells. Free radicals which damage the skin cells are mainly produced by environmental exposure to pollution and UV rays. Antioxidants protect the skin from free radical damage so can help fight ageing and even repair previous damage.
Cacao also contains vitamin c which our skin needs to produce collagen. It is also an antioxidant which helps prevent and treat photo-damage caused by ultraviolet. Cacao is high in magnesium known to be the miracle mineral for skin problems. It detoxifies the epidermis and cleanses the skin helping to combat breakouts and acne. Cocoa contains the fatty acid Omega 6 which is great for cellular healing. This also helps keep your skin soft and supple. It is also known to help with the complexion, circulation and it provides moisture and hydration to the skin.
So now we know, why not try it. We use organic Cacao powder in our Cacao and Orange face mask and scrub and we use organic Cacao butter in all our body butters and lip balms.
Our delicious cacao and Orange Face Mask
Our Cacao face mask is perfect for those who want to indulge while also getting the benefits of antioxidants and other nutrients that Cacao can provide. Your skin will feel softer and smoother after just one use! Cacao powder is rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, which can help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. It also contains magnesium, iron, and calcium, which are all essential nutrients for healthy skin. Cocoa powder also has these same benefits, but also contains caffeine, which can help to stimulate blood flow and reduce puffiness.
This cacao face mask is the perfect way to pamper yourself with a chocolatey treat while also getting the benefits of all of these amazing ingredients. Your skin will thank you for it!
