Seeds from Theobroma cacao L. (Sterculiaceae) are the base for the production of the most important and widespread functional food in human history. The origin of cocoa dates back to more than 3000 years ago, and it was used for nutritional and medicinal purposes by the Mayan and Aztec civilizations . Although the cocoa plant contains an enormous range of beneficial components, processing and manufacturing alters its content and bioactive moieties, particularly during roasting, fermentation and drying, as well as with the use of analytical methods for isolation, characterization and quantification of its bioactive compounds.
Cellular studies and results from oral treatment and topical application studies in both animals and humans provide evidence that cocoa polyphenols, especially those belonging to the flavanol family, can offer effective photoprotection. Furthermore, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of cocoa polyphenols may constitute the basis of the possible antitumor promoting effects of these phytochemicals.
Pertaining to skin health, cocoa components have been utilized in diseases, such as skin cancer, psoriasis, acne and wound healing. It is noteworthy that is has been shown that cocoa has great potential not only for the treatments of skin diseases, but also for their prevention. In particular, antioxidants found in cocoa protect the skin from the inside by neutralizing oxidative stress, a major factor of dermal structure deterioration and premature skin aging. In conclusion, multiple lines of evidence support the role of cocoa in the promotion of human health.
Our Organic Cocoa Butter is minimally processed, and still has a strong and wonderful chocolate aroma. It melts at body temperature, so just warm it in your hands and apply to your skin.
Source: Cocoa Bioactive Compounds: Significance and Potential for the Maintenance of Skin Health, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4145303/