The cocoa seeds have antioxidant properties and can be prepared either raw or dried. They can be purchased at various online stores, traditional shops like pharmacies or herb stores, and they also serve to plant when fresh.
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Cocoa seed properties
They are the seeds of the Theobroma cacao tree, and from them, dark chocolate and cocoa butter and its benefits are made. They provide the body with a range of nutrients that are very beneficial for health, so it is important to keep in mind all the properties of cocoa seeds for:
- Preventing aging.
- Reconstituting the body.
- Improving intestinal transit.
- Increasing vitamin intake.
- Stimulating the central nervous system.
- Reducing constipation.
- Improving cardiovascular health.
- Regulating mood.
The Theobroma cocoa tree produces seeds with the properties of cocoa that most people like, both for their sweet taste with a bitter finish and for their health benefits. They are so good that they even appear in a game, “Minecraft cocoa seeds.”
But back to the interesting part, which are their health benefits, let’s take a look.
Antioxidant properties and benefits
They are rich in substances that balance the body and help delay aging. Indeed, cocoa seeds have antioxidant properties that help prolong the tissues of the skin and hair. So consuming them regularly improves hair condition and protects skin from deterioration.
Laxative effects
Their high fiber content promotes intestinal transit and alleviates mild constipation symptoms. People with digestive problems related to stool evacuation are recommended to consume plenty of fiber.
The composition and nutritional values of cocoa seeds indicate they have a lot of fiber, which is great as it prevents certain digestive issues.
At the same time, they improve blood glucose levels, which is always good for people with diabetes or blood sugar spikes.
Regulate mood
One of the most well-known characteristics is the euphoria and mood improvement they produce. Consuming cocoa seeds improves mood, eliminates temporary anger, and stimulates the central nervous system (CNS).
This is due to the presence of an essential amino acid that regulates emotions and is sold as pure tryptophan in capsules, which you can also purchase in Triptomax and Triptoactive, supplements to improve psychological function thanks to amino acids. Consuming seeds improves sleep quality and reduces mood swings.
Additionally, they contain some phenylethylamine, an euphoric substance. It clears the mind and stimulates the body’s activity. Consumed in small amounts, it provides many benefits and produces a mild euphoria.
Nutritional values
| Nutritional information | Per 100 g. | ||
| Calories | 228 | Carbohydrates | 58 g. |
| Dietary fiber | 33 g. | Proteins | 20 g. |
| Sugars | 1.8 g. | Caffeine | 230 mg. |
| Potassium | 1.54 mg | Sodium | 21 mg. |
| Vitamin A | 0 IU | Vitamin C | 0 mg |
| Calcium | 128 mg | Iron | 13.9 mg |
| Vitamin D | 0 IU | Vitamin B6 | 0.1 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 0 µg | Magnesium | 499 mg |
Stearic acid content
Within its composition, we find a series of fatty acids that prevent the issues associated with saturated fatty acids. In addition to serving as food, it also has other uses and applications, as is the case with stearin or stearic acid, present in cocoa in its various forms.
It does not negatively affect HDL cholesterol nor does it raise the bad LDL cholesterol, while triglycerides behave better than with the saturated fats found in many processed foods.
Why is it good to eat cocoa seeds?
Because when ingested, the body secretes endorphins related to mood. These increase the happiness of the person consuming cocoa seeds, making them feel happier. It improves their feelings and accelerates the recovery from physical exhaustion.
There are also the advantages of being highly nutritious. Along with the amino acids that reduce irritability and states like anxiety, each seed offers a set of nutrients, including magnesium and calcium. All of them are healthy and should never be missing from a balanced diet.
Other benefits of cocoa and its seeds
- Regulate heart rate.
- Improve concentration.
- Stimulate skin tissue formation.
- Reduce chronic fatigue.
It is well known that the active principles of cocoa improve concentration and facilitate studying. Also, by improving mood, they increase the energy to perform tedious tasks that we often feel reluctant to do.
The oil from the seeds is used as a balm for the skin and skin conditions. Nowadays, even chocolate massages are performed. And, if you prefer infusions, you can add them while avoiding the fats they contain.
Where to buy cocoa seeds
Generally, it is easy to purchase chocolate with varying purity percentages, but the seeds for germination and other uses are somewhat more complicated to find. However, it is not too difficult to know where to buy cocoa seeds.
You can buy them in natural stores, online herb shops, and stores with organic products. They are often found alongside cereals and other types of organic farming seeds. They are sold in small packages or bags. Depending on the use you want to give them, that is, for planting or as food, you should buy them from an agricultural center or food stores.
Are organic ones better?
Of course, they are. Keep in mind that all products labeled this way maintain better safety measures during cultivation. Organic cocoa seeds do not contain chemicals and have been produced in compliance with regulations, which ensures better organoleptic properties. They are also good because they avoid unnecessary toxins.
And what about roasted seed properties?
They tend to be more digestible, but on the downside, they lose some benefits. All foods that undergo roasting lose part of their advantages during the process.
When roasted, they are exposed to high temperatures that destroy some micronutrients, but they have a special touch. Their taste is slightly different, less bitter, and they improve digestion, similar to what happens with coffee, which are also seeds.
To give you an idea, check out the images of cocoa seeds before and after roasting.
What is the price?
At this point, there is a great variety depending on the type you buy. If you want roasted cocoa seeds, they cost 7 € per 100 grams, but these are only for human consumption. If you want them for planting cocoa or dried, they are a bit cheaper since they require no treatment. Just harvest them, dry them, and store them at a cool temperature to keep them intact.
