Cacao husk tea is made from the fibrous outer shells of cacao beans, and when these husks are steeped in water, it creates a beverage that shares the same flavor as chocolate. In addition to the health benefits the tea is believed to have, cacao husk tea is also environmentally friendly.
With the cacao husks having traditionally been considered a waste by-product of chocolate making and other cacao products, the use of it as the primary ingredient in tea turns it into a sustainable and highly rated product. Unlike conventional tea leaves, which are derived from the Camellia sinensis plant and are high in caffeine, cacao tea comes from the seed of the cacao plant (that’s the one used to make chocolate!).
Think of cacao husk tea as a healthy, dark hot chocolate but without any sugar, dairy or gluten. Out of all the ways to taste chocolate, drinking cacao husk tea is easily the healthiest.
Although previously thrown away, cacao tea is a great source of nutrients, including B vitamins, vitamin A, iron, zinc, calcium and magnesium. Cacao tea works with herbal tea and contains no sugar or additives, and also provides mood-boosting capabilities. Chocolate husk tea, as it's sometimes called, is known to contain antioxidants, which are believed to counteract damage caused by free radicals and inflammation.The cacao husk tea contains theobromine, which is a naturally occurring compound found in cacao pods and mugwort. It’s a slow release stimulant that provides a gentle pick-me-up without the harsh fall you get from caffeine. With cacao husk tea being free from sugar, gluten, additives, and preservatives, it is inherently low in calories.
If you’re looking for a guilt-free healthy drink, cacao tea can be a delightful thing – with or without milk. Cacao tea is an excellent source of energy and works wonders as an instant mood booster. These antioxidant-rich benefits of cacao tea make it a superb substitute to coffee and other caffeinated drinks.
While you should always seek the advice of your healthcare professional, cacao is often considered a superfood with many qualities including: the ability to lower insulin resistance, protect your nervous system (high in resveratrol antioxidants), shield nerve cells from damage, reduce risk of heart disease and strokes, and lowers blood pressure. Never replace professional medical treatment with cacao, and always seek guidance from your doctor.
