Cocoa Essential Oils
Cocoa essential oil originated in France and is derived from the cocoa bean through a method called solvent extraction. It has a thick consistency and is described as having a sweet, warm aroma. Cocoa essential oils blend exceptionally well with coffee and vanilla but can also be used with other essential oils such as almond and cinnamon. Christopher Columbus has been credited with introducing the cocoa plant to Europe after bringing it back from Central America. It became so valuable that it was actually used as currency.
Overall Benefits of Cocoa Essential Oils
- Aid in the improvement of blood vessel elasticity
- Can assist in reducing high-fat-diet-induced obesity
- Offer relief to sufferers of bronchial asthma
- Beneficial in healthy brain maintenance
- Can assist in helping to lower glucose levels and LDL cholesterol
- May improve glucose metabolism and insulin resistance
- Highly beneficial, nourishing, and effective as a skin care product as they help repair damaged skin through elastin and antioxidants
- Stimulate blood flow to the brain and other parts of the body encouraging healthy circulatory system maintenance
- Are natural mood boosters which can reduce anxiety and stress
Uses for Cocoa Essential Oils
The most common (and general) uses for these essential oils are as an antioxidant, an aphrodisiac, in room sprays or air fresheners, potpourri, perfumes, lotions, butters and body scrubs, and in lip balms. They can be used in massage or aromatherapy to relax and destress an individual. So impressive are the mood boosting properties that sufferers of chronic fatigue syndrome have been known to find relief through cocoa essential oils’ refreshing, yet calming effects. It is believed that the release of neurotransmitters (such as serotonin) are encouraged by the use of this essential oil.
Precautions
The same general warnings that apply to the use of any essential oil also apply here. Though rare, allergic reactions have occasionally occurred. Additionally, cocoa is a source of caffeine which has cautionary warnings of its own.