Ceremonial cacao has been making waves in wellness and personal development circles for its ability to uplift mood, sharpen focus and bring a deeper sense of connection - to yourself and others. But what does it actually feel like to drink ceremonial cacao? Is it psychedelic? Is it safe to drive or mix with alcohol?
Let's break down what you can expect, how to use it safely, and why it’s become a beloved daily ritual for so many.
What are the Benefits of Ceremonial Cacao and How Does it Make you Feel?
Ceremonical cacao makes you calm & grounded but energized at the same time – It gives you a steady, sustained energy boost without overstimulation thanks to the gentle stimulant theobromine.
Clear-minded & focused – Ceremonial cacao is great for deep work, inspiring creativity writing, or deep conversation.
Emotionally open & compassionate – Ceremonial cacao can enhance empathy, making it popular for group circles and social occasions.
What are the effects of Ceremonial Cacao and other common questions
Is Ceremonial Cacao Psychedelic?
Short answer: No, ceremonial cacao is not psychedelic in the traditional sense. It does not alter your perception or cause hallucinations. However, it can create a mild, heart-opening euphoria, thanks to compounds like theobromine and anandamide (known as the “bliss molecule”). These create a subtle shift in your emotional and energetic state—enhancing clarity, creativity, and a gentle sense of well-being.
Does Ceremonial Cacao Contain Caffeine?
Yes but in a very small dose. A ceremonial portion of ceremonial cacao (25-40g) conatains around 10-15 mg of caffeine, whereas a meditiation dose (12g) contains <5mg of caffeine, compared with 20-30mg in tea & 100-250mg in coffee.
The primary stimulant in ceremonial cacao, is instead theobromine, which provides a gentler, more sustained energy than caffeine.
See also our FAQs
How safe is Ceremonial Cacao?
Ceremonial cacao is considered perfectly safe, and a healthy alternative to coffee, alcohol or other social stimulants.
Is it Important to Stay hydrated with Ceremonial Cacao?
Ceremonial cacao is a natural diuretic, primarily due to its theobromine content. This means it can gently increase urination and may lead to dehydration if not balanced with adequate water intake. Staying hydrated helps:
Support optimal circulation and nutrient absorption from your ceremonial cacao blend
Enhance the detoxifying and heart-opening effects of ceremonial cacao
Drinking a glass of water before and after your cacao can keep your body balanced and your experience smooth and grounded.
Is it Safe to Drive after Drinking Ceremonial Cacao?
Yes, it is generally safe to drive after consuming ceremonial cacao. Theobromine, unlike caffeine, provides a calm & alert focus without the jitteriness or crash. Most people report feeling grounded, present, and clear-headed. That said, it’s always best to start with a small dose if it’s your first time and see how your body responds.
Can you Mix Ceremonial Cacao with Alcohol?
Ceremonial cacao is actually a wonderful alternative to alcohol, offering social ease and presence without the hangover.
Ceremonial Cacao supports the heart, liver, and nervous system, and mixing it with alcohol can blunt its effects or stress your body.
When should I take Ceremonial Cacao?
How Long does Ceremonial Cacao take to Kick in?
You’ll typically start to feel the effects of ceremonial cacao within 10–20 minutes of drinking it, depending on your body type and whether you've had a full meal beforehand. On an empty stomach, the effects come on quicker and may feel more noticeable.
How Long do the Effects of Ceremonial Cacao Last?
Most people experience the effects for about 2–4 hours, with a gentle tapering off rather than a crash. You’ll likely feel a subtle lift in mood and mental clarity that continues through the day.
When is the Best Time of Day to Drink Ceremonial Cacao?
In the Morning: Ceremonial Cacao is a great alternative to coffee, energizing and uplifting without the jitters.
At Midday: Ceremonial Cacao supports focus, especially during creative or collaborative work.
In the Evening: Prepare a lighter dose of Ceremonial Cacao if drinking it later in the day, as it can keep some people awake.
Generally avoid drinking it too close to bedtime for good nights rest.
Why make Ceremonial Cacao a Daily Ritual?
Incorporating ceremonial cacao into your daily routine can help you to:
Reduce your stress and balance mood with a daily cup of ceremonial cacao.
Support brain, heart, gut and skin health, liver detoxification and circulation with ceremonial cacao as part of a healthy and balanced diet. Improve this even further by mixing with complimentary supporting ingredients.
Enhance focus & productivity, by drinking ceremonial cacao 20-30 minutes before deep work, an important meeting or a presentation.
Encourage mindfulness and intentional living by being present and empathetic with regular ceremonial cacao consumption.
Drinking ceremonial cacao daily becomes more than a wellness habit—it becomes a ritual of self-connection and nourishment. Whether you're using it for creativity, calm, or clarity, ceremonial cacao invites you to slow down and be present with your body and mind.
Find out how to make the perfect daily ceremonial cacao blend for yourself.