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The Theobroma Cacao or ‘the food of the Gods’ is what we all know as the cocoa tree. It’s origins can be traced back to South America’s rain forests, particularly to Central America, although historians are still at variance over certain facts surrounding this tree.

It is proposed that the Mayans first cultivated the cacao tree in 300 AD, although others point to inadequate evidence that it was grown or at least harvested in around 3,000 BC. The Aztecs also used the cacao, but from about 1100 AD.

The chocolate (drink) that we all know today was called ‘xocoatl’. It was a very exclusive beverage that was made with cacao, chilies, anise seed, vanilla, corn meal and some other spices. It is believed that only royalty were allowed to drink it and then only from golden chalices, which were to be used for the purpose only once.

The cacao tree is very sensitive to its environment and it most frequently grows in the shade of the rain forest canopy. If only for this reason alone, chocolate lovers should join forces with the environmentalists to save the rain forests so that the cacaos will continue to exist.

This tree is unusual because its fruits grow directly on its branches and trunk; midges cause the pollination of the flowers during the night time.

The cacao tree is very productive, but not very fruitful. It can have in the region of 10,000 blossoms, but only about 10 to 50 of those will mature into fruits or pods. This is thought to be because the cacao tree can adjust the number of blossoms that will mature according to its ability to handle the energy loss of bearing fruit or pods.

The cacao tree regulates itself in this way to maintain its health. Too many pods might exhaust its energy so much that it could not survive a viral or insect attack or too many ripe pods might snap off its branches.

The cocoa beans grow within the pod, the fruit of the blossom. Harvesters wait for the pod to ripen. They will then break open the pods and take out the seeds, which are surrounded by a white pulp. This is thrown away these days, but it is thought that many years ago it was fermented into an alcoholic drink for ceremonial occasions. The beans are the source of chocolate, although there is plenty to do yet..

The seeds are very bitter at this point and it is for this reason that they will go through a process of fermentation for about three to seven days. This causes the seeds to go through chemical as well as physical changes. The result of this was used for the royal treat, the ‘xocoatl’.

However, to turn it into what we recognize as chocolate, the fermented beans need to go through several more procedures. Processes by the name of: drying, cleaning, roasting, grading, opening, separation, grinding and liquefying.

After liquefying, you have pure chocolate in the form of chocolate liquor. This is sold to chocolate producers and the good ones make high-quality chocolate from it and the bad ones water it down so much that it is hardly chocolate any more.

Owen Jones, the author of this article, writes on many subjects, but is currently involved with Gourmet Chocolate Candy. If you have an interest in romantic gifts, please go over to our website now at Romantic Gifts: Ideas

When it comes to body art, there are a vast amount of tattoo designs. The choice may seem a bit daunting, but it does not have to be. Simply plan things out and give careful thought to what statement is being made.

Deciding on a design

On average people tend to choose tattoos based on a specific reason. It may be to honor a loved one who has recently departed, or it could be to let someone know how much they mean. Many designs that can be used to symbolize anything.

The first thing that needs to be taken into account is the area upon which the art will rest. There are particular tattoos that work better on certain areas of the body. Some demand a solid and flat surface, while others are fine on a place that curves and bends. Be sure to discuss this with your artist before selecting a final piece.

If there is not a specific symbolic meaning behind your choice to get body art then find something that best represents a personal interest. There are some people who get images of motorcycles or angels, while some like to show how much they love their pets. The possibilities are endless when choosing a design. Many individuals gravitate towards the name of a current romantic interest, but that choice often turns out to be regret. Be smart when making a decision.

If you are at a loss for something to use try looking through some of the amazing books that are available in most shops. If the art is still not exactly what you want then try the internet. There are tons of sites that have artwork.

Tattoo parlors have come a long way from those times of seedy shops on desolate streets. They are now truly respectable places that have highly skilled workers waiting to do your artwork. Just make sure that the place is clean and there will be nothing to worry about.

Tattoo designs come in an array of shapes, colors, and styles. Each piece has a different meaning and the one that you choose will depend on what it needs to say. Before long you will have that long awaited piece done.

Discover some amazing tips, simple ideas, and great advice on flower tattoos designs.

Before even thinking about tattoo designs, it is important to ensure you wholeheartedly want one. They are, of course, pretty much permanent so not rushing into anything is key. Satisfied that you have made the right choice though, it is also important to have a motif that suits you, your personality and to a certain degree, your lifestyle.

The number of tattoo designs is limitless; bounded only by imagination which, is of course limitless. Quite apart from anything else too, each will be unique to its wearer anyway. That said, possibly the single best way to get something that you will appreciate forever is to craft your own design. If you are not the best artist you shouldn’t worry; as a respected tattooist will be able to help anyway.

In any case, working closely with the artist that will be tattooing you is always a good idea. It helps build up a rapport of course, allows them to understand exactly what you are after and, they can be there to guide and advise you. However, don’t let them lead you; be your own person and make decision for yourself ultimately.

It can often seem easiest to select a standard design. However, the common hearts, flowers and family scrolls may not be right for you. But if that is your choice, great, just make sure you are really happy with it.

A good tip to help get the right design is to have a temporary tattoo. Henna tattoos come off after a few washes, so will not be permanent; using them as guides will allow you to really formulate what works and what doesn’t.

Choosing between tattoo designs takes time, and rightly so. However, having made the right choice that you are happy to bear throughout your life, you still need to decide where to get it; and that is a whole different story!

Read Aaron’s article about star design tattoos.