Arriba Nacional Ceremonial Grade Cacao

Our Arriba Nacional cacao paste is available in easy-to-use chunks or 5kg blocks, providing options for both personal use and larger gatherings. Whether you choose convenient pieces or prefer to work directly from the original block, our cacao is perfect for daily rituals, small ceremonies, or larger ceremonial gatherings. Experience the rich, transformative power of ancestral Ecuadorian cacao in its purest form. Embrace the spirit of tradition and connection with every sip.

Arriba Nacional is one of the most sought-after varieties for therapeutic use and artisan chocolate making, prized for its complex flavour profile and superior quality. Many retailers claim the purity of their cacao, but mislabelling is widespread. It is essential to choose transparent providers that offer verifiable sourcing and ethical practices. At Pachakuti, we are on the ground, working directly with indigenous associations and ensuring full transparency in our operations—from cultivation to processing—so you can trust the authenticity of every batch.

Health Benefits

Our ceremonial-grade Arriba Nacional cacao is more than just a rich, flavourful drink—it is a natural source of nutrients and bioactive compounds that support overall wellbeing.

• Boosts Mood & Mental Clarity – Rich in theobromine, cacao provides a gentle, sustained energy boost without the crash of caffeine, enhancing focus and mental clarity. It also stimulates serotonin and dopamine production, promoting feelings of joy and emotional balance.
• Supports Heart Health – Packed with flavanols, our cacao helps improve circulation, lower blood pressure, and support cardiovascular health by increasing nitric oxide levels in the body.
• Enhances Physical & Emotional Wellbeing – With over 300 bioactive compounds, including magnesium, iron, and antioxidants, cacao nourishes the body, relieves stress, and promotes deep relaxation.
• Balances the Nervous System – High in magnesium, ceremonial cacao helps ease tension, support muscle function, and regulate the nervous system for a sense of grounded calm.
• Supports Spiritual & Mindful Practices – Traditionally used in sacred rituals, cacao enhances meditation, connection, and intention-setting, making it a powerful tool for self-discovery and emotional healing.

We have a dedicated page that explores these benefits in more depth. Discover how cacao can enrich your health and wellbeing—click here to see how it fits into your daily routine.

Directions

For daily use, we recommend a dose of 10-25g. A full ceremonial dose is no more than 42g.

If using a 5kg block, carefully cut off your desired amount with a sharp knife or chisel before shaving into smaller pieces.

1. Heat water, guayusa tea, or nut milk to 80°C (175°F).
2. Remove liquid from heat and add cacao shavings.
3. Add your preferred herbs and sweetener (optional).
4. Stir until all ingredients are fully blended.
5. Set your intention for the day and sip mindfully in a quiet environment for a deeper connection.
6. Looking for inspiration? Explore our favourite cacao recipes here.

Important Safety Information

While our ceremonial-grade cacao is a powerful and enriching superfood, please consume responsibly. A dose over 50g may cause nausea, cold sweats, or headaches.

• Cacao is toxic to dogs—keep it safely stored away from pets.
• May interact with certain medications, especially antidepressants, heart medications, and MAOIs. If you have a medical condition or are taking medication, consult a healthcare professional before consuming.