Answer
Apr 29, 2025 - 08:17 AM
Cacao is the raw, unprocessed seed from which chocolate is made, and it comes from the cacao tree (Theobroma cacao), native to the tropical regions of Central and South America. The seeds are rich in flavonoids, particularly epicatechin, which are known for their antioxidant properties and potential health benefits. Cacao has been cultivated for thousands of years and was highly valued by ancient civilizations like the Mayans and Aztecs, who used it in ceremonial drinks and as a form of currency.