In this “Tea’s Index,” we will explore the various herbs used in herbal teas.
This time, we are introducing “Cacao peel”
A single cup of herbal tea is filled with the blessings and healing powers of nature.
It’s not just about the aroma or flavor—each herb has its own ingredients and benefits that gently soothe both the body and mind.
【About the Author】
European Tea Culture Researcher / Pastry Chef
Seryu Kamizaki
Hometown: Fukuoka City, Japan
A pastry chef turned tea researcher, I’ve always loved tea—so much so that my passion for black tea has expanded to a love for all types of tea. I primarily purchase black tea, green tea, and herbal tea from European brands, and I enjoy integrating them into my daily life. While savoring these teas, I’m constantly exploring new ways to share information with others. My goal is to reopen the café I once had to close, where people can casually enjoy the finest tea paired with supreme desserts and light meals, by 2027.
※This article uses ChatGPT provided by openAI.
Here, I have organized the information I have obtained and written it.
Japanese version : 「カカオピール」の主成分や効能について【 About Cacao peel 】
Adout Cacao peel
First, a brief explanation of Cacao peel.
Type
- Cacao belongs to the Malvaceae family and is a perennial tree.
- Cacao peel comes from the thin outer shell that surrounds the cacao beans inside the large cacao fruit.
- This shell is removed after the cacao beans are fermented and dried, then processed to be used in herbal teas
Characteristics
- Cacao peel retains the rich aroma and flavor of cacao, featuring a slight bitterness and a toasty quality.
Origin
- Cacao originates from the tropical regions of South America.
- Nowadays, it is also widely cultivated in West Africa (such as Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana) and Southeast Asia (like Indonesia).
About the main ingredient
Drinking Cacao peel herbal tea has health benefits. The main ingredients that support these benefits are as follows:
1.Cocoa Polyphenols
- These are antioxidant compounds that help keep the body healthy and energized.
2.Theobromine
- Similar to caffeine but gentler in effect, theobromine can help calm the mind and warm the body.
3.Minerals
- Cacao peel contains minerals such as magnesium and iron, which help regulate the body’s overall balance.
4.Dietary Fiber
- While the amount of fiber in herbal tea is minimal, it still gently supports the body’s digestive system.
- Consistent consumption can aid in smoother digestion.
5.Amino Acids
- Cacao peel contains various amino acids, including tryptophan, a precursor to the “happiness hormone” serotonin, and glutamic acid, which supports brain function.
- These components help promote relaxation and stabilize mood.
About Ingredients and benefits
The health Ingredients and benefits of Cacao peel in herbal tea are as follows:
1. Relaxation Effects
- Theobromine, a component found in cacao, gently helps calm the mind.
- It provides a moment of relaxation during busy or stressful days.
2.Body Care through Antioxidant Action
- Cocoa polyphenols help keep the body healthy by protecting cells from damage, making it beneficial for daily health maintenance.
3. Supports Digestion and Gut Health
- The dietary fiber in cacao peel supports intestinal function, aiding in the digestion of food.
- It’s perfect for maintaining a healthy digestive system.
4.Warming the Body
- Theobromine improves circulation, helping to warm the body.
- It is a comforting choice for those who feel chilly and want to stay cozy.
5.Stabilizes Mood
- Tryptophan, an amino acid found in cacao, helps support a calm and stable mood.
- It is also recommended for relaxing evenings to promote restful sleep.
Precautions and contraindications
Cacao peel herbal tea is a healthy drink.
However, there are some cases where caution is required depending on the ingredients in the herbs.
Below we explain the precautions to take when drinking Cacao peel and any contraindications (cases when it is better to avoid it).
1.Limit Intake if Sensitive to Caffeine
- Cacao contains theobromine, which has similar effects to caffeine.
- If you are sensitive to caffeine or want to avoid sleep disruption, it is best to consume cacao peel tea in moderation or earlier in the day.
2.Caution for Individuals with Heart Conditions
- Theobromine may increase heart rate, so individuals with heart issues should either avoid it or consult a doctor beforehand.
3.Interactions with Existing Medications
- If you are taking certain medications, especially for heart disease or high blood pressure, cacao peel may interfere with the effects of these drugs.
- Consulting a doctor before consumption is advisable.
4.Pregnant or Breastfeeding Women
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women should monitor their intake of caffeine and theobromine.
- Excessive consumption may affect the fetus or infant, so it is recommended to consult a doctor before drinking.
5.Avoid for Young Children
- Children are more sensitive to caffeine and theobromine than adults.
- If giving cacao peel tea to a small child, it is safest to limit the amount.
6.Allergy Risk
- Those who have a cacao allergy should be especially cautious.
- If there is any possibility of an allergic reaction, it is best to avoid drinking the tea and consult a doctor.
7.Avoid Overconsumption
- This applies to herbal teas in general; even natural products can place a burden on the body if consumed excessively over a short or extended period.
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Curious about more herbs? Check these out!
We’ve covered a variety of other herbs as well!
Below are four of our latest picks, but you can find the complete list in the “Index” menu. Feel free to explore!
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