Where Does the Name “Cacao” Come From?
Theobroma cacao, the scientific name of the cacao tree, is an evergreen plant from the Malvaceae family. This name was coined by the Swedish naturalist Carl Linnaeus in the 18th century.
The term “Theobroma” comes from Greek and means “food of the gods”, while “cacao” has its roots in the languages of Mesoamerican civilizations, particularly in Nahuatl, where it was called “cacahuatl”. When the Spanish arrived during the conquest of the Americas, the word was adapted into Spanish as “cacao”.
The Legend of Cacao
Cacao has been revered for both its nutritional and spiritual properties. The most well-known legend about its origin on Earth involves the god Quetzalcoatl, the Feathered Serpent. Quetzalcoatl is one of the most important deities in Mesoamerican mythology, especially among the Aztecs and Toltecs, recognized as the god of wisdom, wind, fertility, and creation.
According to legend, Quetzalcoatl, moved by the devotion and efforts of humans, decided to gift them cacao, a sacred plant that only the gods were allowed to enjoy. He stole the plant from the gods’ garden and planted it in the human world, teaching people how to harvest cacao and prepare a sacred, bitter beverage mixed with spices.
This divine act emphasized cacao’s importance in Mesoamerican cosmology, earning it the title “the drink of the gods.” For centuries, cacao was reserved for the elite, used in special ceremonies and even as a form of currency.
The Spread and Transformation of Cacao
Quetzalcoatl’s gift provided humans with wisdom and strength, becoming a symbol of gratitude and respect toward him. However, other gods were furious when they discovered that Quetzalcoatl had shared this divine treasure with humans. Despite their anger, his actions ensured that cacao became a fundamental part of Mesoamerican culture and daily life.
Initially, cacao was prepared with water, spices, and sweetened with honey. It wasn’t until the Spanish brought it to Europe that it began to be prepared with cow’s milk.
Over time, cacao spread worldwide, becoming one of the most beloved and widely consumed products across the globe, used in everything from beverages to confectionery and skincare products.
The Legacy of Cacao Today
Despite its evolution, cacao remains a powerful symbol of its rich history and Mesoamerican roots. Every time a cup of cacao is prepared or enjoyed, it honors its identity and legacy as “the drink of the gods”, carrying all of its beneficial attributes.
Many people continue the tradition of drinking it with water instead of milk, staying true to its ancestral origins. This practice not only preserves the purity of cacao, but also connects those who drink it with a deep cultural and spiritual heritage.
Conclusion
Cacao, scientifically known as Theobroma cacao, is more than just a nutritional and economic powerhouse—it is a sacred symbol of Mesoamerican culture and spirituality.
From its mythical origins tied to Quetzalcoatl to its global expansion, cacao has maintained its revered status as a sacred and cherished plant.
Throughout the centuries, its preparation has evolved, yet many still honor its traditional methods, preserving a link to the past and a deep appreciation for its cultural significance.
By enjoying a cup of cacao, we celebrate a legacy that has endured through time—a legacy that continues to be honored as “the drink of the gods.”
