Our ceremonial cacao comes from a small family run finca (farm) in El Salvador. We visited the growers there.

Wão is made from a better type of bean than regular chocolate. It uses the whole bean (yes, even the cocoa butter) and is less processed at a lower heat to retain its natural goodness.

Cacao was once used as a medicine, and even a currency, by the Olmecs, the Mayans & the Aztecs. It was more highly valued than gold.

It is one of nature’s greatest sources of antioxidants and a significant plant based source of iron and other minerals. It’s a great source of flavanols for better focus & memory. It contains theobromine (meaning food of the gods) which is a natural gentle stimulant that calms our central nervous system and improves our mood. It’s a naturally fermented food which makes it great for pre and probiotics and improved gut health.

Learn more about this Wonder.

Focus. Memory. Energy. Calm. Brain.

Franco R. (2013). Health benefits of methylxanthines in cacao and chocolate.

Mood.

Shin J. et al. (2021). Consumption of 85% cocoa dark chocolate improves mood in association with gut microbial changes in healthy adults: a randomized controlled trial.

Heart. Gut.

Zimmermann B. et al. (2020). Cocoa, chocolate, and human health.

Lion’s mane is a mushroom: a really good mushroom. Also known as pom pom mushroom, monkey head mushroom and hedgehog mushroom, lion’s mane originates from Asia, and was traditionally used by Buddhist monks to improve their focus in meditation.

Recent studies suggest that it contains compounds that stimulate brain cell growth & and protect us from Alzheimer’s & other neurodegenerative diseases, but more research is necessary. It is thought to be an adaptogen, which helps us to be calm.

Learn more about this Wonder.

Focus. Memory.

Li-li W. (2011). A preliminary study of fresh Hericium erinaceus oral liquid on health-care function and promotion of learning and memory.

Energy.

He X. et al. (2017). Structures, biological activities, and industrial applications of the polysaccharides from Hericium erinaceus (Lion’s Mane) mushroom: A review.

Mood.

Chong P. et al. (2020). Therapeutic Potential of Hericium erinaceus for Depressive Disorder.

Calm.

Khan A. et al. (2013). Hericium erinaceus: an edible mushroom with medicinal values.

Friedman M. (2015). Chemistry, Nutrition, and Health-Promoting Properties of Hericium erinaceus (Lion's Mane) Mushroom Fruiting Bodies and Mycelia and Their Bioactive Compounds.

Brain. Heart.

Friedman M. (2015). Chemistry, Nutrition, and Health-Promoting Properties of Hericium erinaceus (Lion's Mane) Mushroom Fruiting Bodies and Mycelia and Their Bioactive Compounds.

Gut.

Yang Y. et al. (2021). Value added immunoregulatory polysaccharides of Hericium erinaceus and their effect on the gut microbiota.

Diling C. et al. (2017). Extracts from Hericium erinaceus relieve inflammatory bowel disease by regulating immunity and gut microbiota.

Cordyceps is an adaptogenic mushroom that has been used in Chinese medicine for centuries to treat fatigue, sickness, kidney disease & low sex drive.

Today it is believed to help endurance & athletic performance as it stimulates the body’s production of the molecule adenosine triphosphate, which is essential for delivering energy to our muscles.

Studies suggest it increases antioxidants, reverses ageing, improves memory & enhances sex drive. But more studies are required. Test tube studies also suggest that it inhibits the growth of several types of cancer cells. Again more studies are required.

Learn more about this Wonder.

Energy. Heart.

Ashraf S. et al. (2020). Cordycepin for Health and Wellbeing: A Potent Bioactive Metabolite of an Entomopathogenic Medicinal Fungus Cordyceps with Its Nutraceutical and Therapeutic Potential.

Mood.

Das G. et al. (2021). Cordyceps spp.: A Review on Its Immune-Stimulatory and Other Biological Potentials.

Lin Y. et al. (2021). Antidepressant-like effects of water extract of Cordyceps militaris (Linn.) Link by modulation of ROCK2/PTEN/Akt signaling in an unpredictable chronic mild stress-induced animal model.

Calm.

Lin Y. et al. (2021). Antidepressant-like effects of water extract of Cordyceps militaris (Linn.) Link by modulation of ROCK2/PTEN/Akt signaling in an unpredictable chronic mild stress-induced animal model.

Libido.

Panda A. et al. (2011). Traditional uses and medicinal potential of Cordyceps sinensis of Sikkim.

Brain.

Chen Y. et al. (2021). The Role of Autophagy in Anti-Cancer and Health Promoting Effects of Cordycepin.

Reishi is an adaptogenic mushroom that is nicknamed the mushroom of immortality. For almost 2000 years it was reserved for royalty, as Chinese emperors used it to reverse the signs of ageing, to prolong their legacies

It is thought to improve the functioning of white blood cells and improve immunity, though further studies are needed. Several test-tube studies have also shown that it can eliminate cancer cells, but again more studies are required.

They say that it also improves sleep & lessens fatigue. It is said to have over 400 bioactive compounds & to improve antioxidant status.

Learn more about this Wonder.

Memory.

Luz D. et al. (2023). Neuroprotective, neurogenic, and anticholinergic evidence of Ganoderma lucidum cognitive effects: Crucial knowledge is still lacking.

Energy.

Ezurike P. et al. (2023). Ganoderma lucidum ethanol extract promotes weight loss and improves depressive-like behaviors in male and female Swiss mice.

Mood. Calm.

Ahmad R. et al. (2021). Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi) an edible mushroom; a comprehensive and critical review of its nutritional, cosmeceutical, mycochemical, pharmacological, clinical, and toxicological properties.

Libido.

Ahmed H. et al. (2018). Evaluation of aphrodisiac activity of ethanol extract of Ganoderma lucidum in male Wistar rats.

Brain. Heart.

Seweryn E. et al. (2021). Health-Promoting of Polysaccharides Extracted from Ganoderma lucidum.

Ahmad R. et al. (2021). Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi) an edible mushroom; a comprehensive and critical review of its nutritional, cosmeceutical, mycochemical, pharmacological, clinical, and toxicological properties.

Gut.

Guo C. et al. (2021). Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide modulates gut microbiota and immune cell function to inhibit inflammation and tumorigenesis in colon.

Chang C. et al. (2015). Ganoderma lucidum reduces obesity in mice by modulating the composition of the gut microbiota.

Maca is an adaptogenic root grown in the Andes mountains. It is popularly believed to boost fertility and improve energy & endurance.

Several studies suggest that it helps to increase libido & reduce sexual dysfunction, in both men & women. Some studies also suggest it increases male fertility. Athletes and body builders often take maca to increase energy and boost performance. Maca is also rich in flavanols, which are thought to improve our mood.

Learn more about this Wonder.

Gonzalez G. et al. (2014). Maca (Lepidium meyenii Walp), a review of its biological properties.

Libido.

Dording C. et al. (2008). A double-blind, randomized, pilot dose-finding study of maca root (L. meyenii) for the management of SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction.

Cui T. et al. (2015). A Urologist's Guide to Ingredients Found in Top-Selling Nutraceuticals for Men's Sexual Health.

Brain. Gut.

Wang S. et al. (2019). Chemical composition and health effects of maca (Lepidium meyenii).

Beetroot makes Wão its beautiful pinkish-purple colour. Wow. It’s a great source of antioxidants, nutrients, fiber & many plant compounds.

Beetroot also has a lot of nitrates, which our body makes into nitric oxide. This improves our blood flow, which studies suggest improves memory, learning & thinking by increasing oxygen and nutrient flow to our brain. Studies also suggest this might improve our mood.

Studies suggest that beetroot reduces heart disease, supports gut health & fights cancer. Athletes use it to boost endurance & support muscle recovery. It is also a good source of betalins which are anti-inflammatory.

Learn more about this Wonder.

Focus. Memory.

Vaccaro M. et al. (2023). Acute effects of a chewable beetroot-based supplement on cognitive performance: a double-blind randomized placebo-controlled crossover clinical trial.

Energy.

Miraftabi H. et al. (2021). Effects of Beetroot Juice Supplementation on Cognitive Function, Aerobic and Anaerobic Performances of Trained Male Taekwondo Athletes: A Pilot Study.

Mood.

Jodra P. et al. (2019). Effect of Beetroot Juice Supplementation on Mood, Perceived Exertion, and Performance During a 30-Second Wingate Test.

Heart. Gut.

Lundburg J. et al. (2018). Metabolic Effects of Dietary Nitrate in Health and Disease.

Wão’s rose comes from a region we visited, Rose Valley in Bulgaria. This is where the highest quality of rose can be found, rose damascena.

The rose is traditionally associated with Aphrodite, the goddess of love. It symbolises passion, desire, love & sexuality in many cultures.

It is full of flavonoids, antioxidants & immunity-boosting vitamins & minerals. It is also thought to aid digestion & improve our skin health & radiance.

Learn more about this Wonder.

Mood. Libido. Brain. Heart. Gut.

Xia N. et al (2024). Deciphering the antidepressant effects of Rosa damascena essential oil mediated through the serotonergic synapse signaling pathway.

Calm.

Dagli R. et al. (2019). The effects of aromatherapy using rose oil (Rosa damascena Mill.) on preoperative anxiety: A prospective randomized clinical trial.

Rosehip is the fruit of wild roses, packed with vitamins, minerals & antioxidants . It is thought to improve and protect our skin health due to its antioxidant, vitamin C and fatty acid properties.

It is also thought to boost immunity, reduce arthritis pain, improve heart health & aid digestion.

Learn more about this Wonder.

Zahra A. et al. (2018). Phytochemistry, Traditional Uses and Pharmacological Profile of Rose Hip: A Review.

Heart.

Selahvarzian A. et al. (2018). Medicinal Properties of Rosa canina L.

Fan C. et al. (2014). Rose hip (Rosa canina L): A functional food perspective.

Cardamom is a spice originating from India. Traditionally it has been used to aid digestion & freshen breath.

It is rich in antioxidants and some studies suggest that it may contain cancer fighting compounds. These antioxidants may also protect cells from damage and prevent inflammation.

Learn more about this Wonder.

Focus. Memory.

Kunwar T. et al. (2015). Effect of Elettaria cardamomum hydroethanolic extract on learning and memory in Scopolamine induced amnesia.

Setty P. et al. (2013). A study on effect of oral administration of cardamom on memory boosting and regaining in wistar albino rats.

Brain.

Auti S. et al. (2019). Neuroprotective Effect of Cardamom Oil Against Aluminum Induced Neurotoxicity in Rats.

Gut.

Huang Y. et al. (2007). Dose effects of the food spice cardamom on aspects of hamster gut physiology.

Rosemary is a herb that’s rich in antioxidants & anti-inflammatory compounds. Traditionally people have used it to grow their hair, relieve muscular pain, improve their memories and boost their immune & circulatory systems.

More recently studies have shown the carnosic & rosmarinic acids in rosemary have powerful antibacterial, antiviral & antifungal properties which could help lower the risk of, and help us fight, infection. Studies have also shown that carnosic acid can slow the growth of cancer cells in the body and even lower the risk of developing tumours.

Preliminary studies indicate that rosemary has a positive impact on reducing anxiety & stress. Other studies have shown that it can lead to significant improvements in cognitive performance.

Learn more about this Wonder.

Memory.

Lewis J. et al. (2021). The effects of twenty-one nutrients and phytonutrients on cognitive function: A narrative review.

Rahbardar M. et al. (2020). Therapeutic effects of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) and its active constituents on nervous system disorders.

Mood.

Achour M. et al. (2021). Rosemary Tea Consumption Alters Peripheral Anxiety and Depression Biomarkers: A Pilot Study in Limited Healthy Volunteers.

Rahbardar M. et al. (2020). Therapeutic effects of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) and its active constituents on nervous system disorders.

Calm.

Atsumi T. et al. (2007). Smelling lavender and rosemary increases free radical scavenging activity and decreases cortisol level in saliva.

Rahbardar M. et al. (2020). Therapeutic effects of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) and its active constituents on nervous system disorders.

Brain.

Oliveira J. et al. (2019). Rosmarinus officinalis L. (rosemary) as therapeutic and prophylactic agent.

Jimbo D. et al. (2009). Effect of aromatherapy on patients with Alzheimer's disease.

Heart.

Oliveira J. et al. (2019). Rosmarinus officinalis L. (rosemary) as therapeutic and prophylactic agent.

Espelette pepper is a chili from the Capsicum family found in the Basque region of France. It has a protected status to safeguard its unique flavour profile. We went there to meet the growers in this gourmand region.

Capsicum is the active phytonutrient which is responsible for its spicyness. This spicyness is thought to speed up our body’s assimilation of the positive effects of ceremonial grade cacao.

Capsicum is thought to relieve pain, improve skin health and speed up metabolism.

Learn more about this Wonder.

Energy.

Elmas C. et al. (2022). Capsaicin and Its Effects on Body Weight.

Varghese S. et al. (2017). Chili pepper as a body weight-loss food.

Heart.

Hassan N. et al. (2019). Carotenoids of Capsicum Fruits: Pigment Profile and Health-Promoting Functional Attributes.

Gut.

Xia Y. et al. (2022). Detection of indigenous gut bacteria related to red chilli pepper (Capsicum annuum) in murine caecum and human faecal cultures.

Jamaica pepper is a spice also known as allspice & pimento. It contains several beneficial plant compounds including eugenol, quercetin, gallic acid & ericifolin. Studies have shown that each of these may prevent the spread of tumours & kill cancerous cells, but further studies are required.

Jamaica pepper is also used to alleviate aches, pains & indigestion. It also has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial & antifungal effects.

Learn more about this Wonder.

Hernández-Pérez T. et al. (2020). Capsicum annuum (hot pepper): An ancient Latin-American crop with outstanding bioactive compounds and nutraceutical potential. A review.

Nutmeg is a spice from Indonesia. It is rich in plant compounds that have antioxiant & anti-inflammatory effects and anti-bacterial properties.

It may also benefit heart health, boost mood & libido and improve blood sugar control, but further studies are required.

Learn more about this Wonder.

Okiki P. et al. (2023). Assessment of nutritional and medicinal properties of nutmeg.

Gut.

de Souza Basso B. et al. (2021). Methoxyeugenol deactivates hepatic stellate cells and attenuates liver fibrosis and inflammation through a PPAR-ɣ and NF-kB mechanism.

Ceylon cinnamon comes from the bark of cinnamon trees native to Sri Lanka. It is rich in beta-carotene & antioxidants.

Studies suggest that it may protect against heart disease & neurodegenerative diseases. It is also thought to help control sensitivity to insulin & lower blood sugar levels.

Learn more about this Wonder.

Jiang T. (2019). Health Benefits of Culinary Herbs and Spices.

Heart.

Gruenwald J. et al. (2010). Cinnamon and health.

Jiang T. (2019). Health Benefits of Culinary Herbs and Spices.

Turmeric is a spice that has been used in the Indian subcontinent as a medicine & food for millennia. It contains compounds called curcuminoids, including curcumin, which studies have shown have medicinal properties.

Curcumin is a strong antioxidant & powerful anti-inflamatory. Studies show that it is best absorbed in conjuction with the piperine in pepper and with healthy fats, such as the cocoa butter in ceremonial cacao.

Studies have found that curcumin may be effective in delaying or even reversing many brain diseases and age-related decreases in brain function, as well as improving memory & focus. Several studies also show that it may improve heart health and reduce risk of heart disease.

Learn more about this Wonder.

Lewis J. et al. (2021). The effects of twenty-one nutrients and phytonutrients on cognitive function: A narrative review.

Memory.

Lewis J. et al. (2021). The effects of twenty-one nutrients and phytonutrients on cognitive function: A narrative review.

Mood. Brain.

Jiang T. (2019). Health Benefits of Culinary Herbs and Spices.

Calm.

Hewlings S. et al. (2017). Curcumin: A Review of Its Effects on Human Health.

Fewsar-Poli L. et al. (2019). Curcumin for depression: a meta-analysis.

Heart.

Jabczyk M. et al. (2021). Curcumin in Metabolic Health and Disease.

Gut.

Jafarzadeh E. et al. (2022). Turmeric for Treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Systematic Review of Population-Based Evidence.

Ginger is a root originating in Southeast Asia.

It is rich in antioxidants, is anti-inflammatory, and its bioactive compound, gingerol, boosts immunity with antimicrobial and antifungal properties. This is why ginger is often used to fight the symptoms of common colds & flu such as coughs, fevers, infections & headaches. It keeps ours mouths clean & healthy for the same reason.

It is popularly used to improve digestion, boost metabolism & settle nausea. It is also thought to make our skin look younger & taughter, help against cancer, reduce the symptoms of arthritis & alleviate PMS.

Learn more about this Wonder.

Icer M. et al. (2023). Effects of Red Pepper, Ginger, and Turmeric on Energy Metabolism: Review of Current Knowledge.

Brain.

Mao Q. et al. (2019). Bioactive Compounds and Bioactivities of Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe).

Heart.

Fakhri S. et al. (2021). Ginger and Heart Health: From Mechanisms to Therapeutics.

Mao Q. et al. (2019). Bioactive Compounds and Bioactivities of Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe).

Gut.

Anh N. et al. (2020). Ginger on Human Health: A Comprehensive Systematic Review of 109 Randomized Controlled Trials.

Black pepper is a commonly used spice, rich in the plant compound piperine. Piperine is high in antioxidants which may reduce free radical damage to our cells. It also has anti-inflammatory properties which can have beneficial effects such as alleviating arthritis, although further studies are required.

Piperine may also improve memory and combat degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, but again further studies are required. It may also reduce cholesterol & improve blood sugar control.

Learn more about this Wonder.

Jiang T. (2019). Health Benefits of Culinary Herbs and Spices.

Butt M. et al. (2013). Black pepper and health claims: a comprehensive treatise.

Brain. Gut.

Singletary K. (2010). Black Pepper Overview of Health Benefits.

Jiang T. (2019). Health Benefits of Culinary Herbs and Spices.

Butt M. et al. (2013). Black pepper and health claims: a comprehensive treatise.

Coconut blossom sugar is a palm sugar produced from the sap of the flower bud stem of the coconut palm.

It is less processed than regular sugar, with a moderately lower glycemic index and contains minor amounts of diverse micronutrients (including iron, zinc, calcium and potassium) and phytonutrients (including polyphenols and antioxidants).

Learn more about this Wonder.

Energy.

Mergenthaler P. (2013). Sugar for the brain: the role of glucose in physiological and pathological brain function.

Himalayan pink salt is less processed than regular salt and may contain traces of several minerals & nutrients, such as iron, which give it its distinctive colour.