Cacao is the raw ingredient used to make chocolate. It comes from the seeds of the cacao tree, which grows in tropical regions. The seeds, or cacao beans, are harvested, fermented, and dried before being processed into products like cocoa powder and chocolate bars. Cacao is not only delicious but also packed with antioxidants and other beneficial compounds. In addition to its tasty treats, cacao has a rich history. The ancient Maya and Aztec civilizations valued cacao so much that they used it as currency and in religious ceremonies. Today, cacao continues to be celebrated worldwide, both for its flavor and its cultural significance.