Potential Interpersonal Applications of Cacao: A Review and Call for Further Research

This paper takes an ethnobiological approach to investigate historic and contemporary uses of cacao and its potential interpersonal applications. A literature review summarized past research conducted about the health benefits of cacao, Indigenous and ritual plant uses, and psychoactive effects. Minimal research has been completed on the interpersonal implications of cacao consumption. People globally who facilitate and attend cacao ceremonies claim that cacao's psychoactive effects lead, in many users, to euphoria and emotional openness. They assert that these effects make cacao an excellent addition to reflection and connection-building activities done in cacao ceremonies; however, claims need to be researched and field-tested. Surveys were conducted with eleven cacao ceremony practitioners, who shared their insights into cacao’s effects on participants. Cacao use and potential cultural appropriation were analyzed, as well as popular claims about the effects of chemical compounds in cacao. Additional research is needed to further explore the potential interpersonal effects of cacao use. If validated, cacao could prove to be a useful complement to a range of interpersonal activities, from corporate team building to community building, to applications for romantic relationships or even therapy.