What is 'Ceremonial cacao'?

'Ceremonial cacao' is 100% pure cacao paste, made from the whole cacao bean. It is minimally processed to preserve the natural nutrients, energetics, and flavour profile. Unlike processed cocoa powders or chocolate, ceremonial cacao retains its full spectrum of cacao butter, minerals, antioxidants, polyphenols, and theobromine. It also retains the potent energetic signature that is disrupted when the whole-bean is split. It can be used daily and in ceremony to support heart-opening, nervous system balance, creative flow, and emotional well-being.

Where does Alchemy Cacao source its cacao?

All of our cacao is sourced directly from regenerative and organic farms across the South Pacific. Our current offerings include cacao paste, powder, and nibs from Papua New Guinea, and cacao husk tea from the Solomon Islands. We work closely with farmer cooperatives that prioritize ethical growing practices, community well-being, and sustainable agriculture.

What makes South Pacific cacao different from other ceremonial cacao?

Most ceremonial cacao on the market is sourced from Central or South America. Alchemy Cacao is one of the few brands focused exclusively on the cacao traditions of the South Pacific. Grown closer to our home in New Zealand, South Pacific cacao carries unique energetic signatures — rich, earthy, deeply grounding — with a lower environmental footprint and stronger farmer partnerships that directly benefit local communities.

How do I prepare ceremonial cacao?

Preparing cacao is simple and can easily be adapted into your own daily ritual:

• Grab your favourite mug (we know you have one)
• Add 200ml filtered water to a pot over medium heat
• Break up 2x bricks (30g) of Alchemy Cacao and add to pot
• Wait for cacao to soften and steam to rise
• Whisk continuously until all paste has dissolved 
• Allow the brew to bubble, reaching the moment of Alchemy when all the butter emulsifies
• You now have a rich, velvety textured ceremonial cacao
• Remove from heat and sweeten to taste
• Get creative and add optional spices or adaptogens
• Optional: Add spices, adaptogens, or natural sweeteners

What are the health benefits of cacao?

Cacao is naturally rich in:

• Magnesium: Supports muscle relaxation, stress relief, and heart health.
• Polyphenols & Antioxidants: Help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.
• Theobromine: Provides gentle, clean energy without the jitteriness of caffeine.
• Essential minerals: Including iron, potassium, zinc, and manganese.
• Mood support: Naturally stimulates neurotransmitters like serotonin and anandamide ("the bliss molecule").

Many customers use cacao to support nervous system regulation, energy, focus, creative flow, emotional processing, and overall wellness.

Is ceremonial cacao safe to consume daily?

Yes! Many people incorporate ceremonial cacao into their daily routine. As with any plant medicine, it's important to listen to your body. Starting with a smaller dose (15g) and working up to ceremonial dose as you feel comfortable may be required for some, particularly those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

What’s the difference between cacao paste, powder, nibs, and husk tea?

• Cacao Paste (100% Pure Cacao): Whole-bean cacao paste, ideal for ceremonial use and daily ritual.
• Cacao Powder (20% Butter Retained): Gently pressed powder with some cacao butter intact; perfect for everyday drinking chocolate with subtle ceremonial properties.
• Cacao Nibs: Crushed cacao beans, raw and unprocessed — great for snacking or adding to recipes.
• Cacao Husk Tea: Light, aromatic tea brewed from the husks of cacao beans; rich in antioxidants and gentle theobromine stimulation.

Is your cacao organic and ethically sourced?

Yes — all of our cacao is organically grown, regeneratively farmed, and ethically sourced through direct partnerships with South Pacific farmers. We prioritize transparency, traceability, and long-term farmer support to ensure everyone in the supply chain is cared for.

Can I use Alchemy Cacao for ceremony or meditation?

Absolutely. While cacao can simply be enjoyed as a delicious and nourishing drink, many choose to incorporate it into ceremonial or meditative practices. Cacao has been used for centuries as a heart-opening plant ally, supporting intention setting, emotional processing, creative exploration, and nervous system balance.

How should I store my cacao?

Store your cacao in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat. Keep the packaging sealed to prevent moisture exposure. Stored properly, your cacao will remain fresh and vibrant for up to 12 months.

Do you offer shipping outside of New Zealand?

Currently, we offer shipping across New Zealand and are working toward international shipping options. Stay tuned and subscribe to our newsletter for updates as we expand.

Still have questions?

Reach out to us at hello@alchemycacao.co.nz — we’re always here to help you start or deepen your cacao journey.