Chocolate Tea

Chocolate hull tea is a chocoholic’s dream come true, containing the sweet aroma and rich taste of dark chocolate without the fat, sugar or calories. Steeped from the shell of the cacao bean, this tea contains over 300 compounds including tannins, catechins, polyphenols, theobromine (a naturally occurring stimulant), and other antioxidant agents. It is a healthy alternative to coffee. During the winnowing process in chocolate production, the roasted seeds of the cacao fruit are cracked and the shells are separated from the nibs. The nibs are further processed into the chocolate we know. The shells can be brewed into a smooth and delicious tea. Great on its own or you can add a little dairy and sweeter for a liquid dark chocolate bar sensation. Buy chocolate tea online with Happy Lucky’s!

History 
Traces of cacao beverages have been found in ceramic vessels of Mesoamerican civilizations dating back to 1900 BC. The beans were used as a currency system in the pre-Columbian Aztec Empire. The Maya honored cacao in their creation story and made ceremonial offerings of it at festivals, believing that cacao was discovered by the gods and gifted to humankind. In fact, the scientific name, Theobroma cacao, is Greek for “food of the gods”! 

Cultivation
Cacao trees are tropical evergreens native to lowland rainforests in the Amazon and Orinoco river basins. It is also grown commercially in the New World tropics, western Africa, and tropical Asia. The trees grow to a height of 6-12 meters (20-40 feet), and have oblong leathery leaves. 

Health Benefits
Cacao is a powerful source of antioxidants, believed to help the body’s cells resist damage. Flavonoids in cacao have been shown to help protect plants from environmental toxins. Research shows cacao's potential to lower the risk of heart disease by providing cacao flavanols that help lower blood pressure and improve blood flow to brain and heart.

Indulge in some herbal loose leaf and buy chocolate tea online with Happy Lucky's today!