Organic chocolate and strawberry infusion

Chocolate predominates in the taste of this drink and makes it special. It combines its flavor with the fragrant taste of strawberry, for a perfect combination of pleasures on the palate. The intense aroma of cocoa peels creates an infusion that smells of chocolate, evoking a toasted aftertaste. This decisive flavor is combined with a sweet pinch of strawberry, to seduce with a greedy taste and enveloping aromas. In addition, the delicate tone of hibiscus and dog rose dilutes the cocoa, and combines with the fruity nuances of orange and apple. It is an excellent warm blend, energetic in the morning, pleasant as an evening hug and appetizing to sip during breaks. Furthermore, it gives beneficial virtues, thanks to the richness of nutrients.

Organic chocolate and strawberry infusion: properties and benefits

The strawberries that are part of this blend come from organic farming crops. They are rich in vitamin C and minerals such as iron, phosphorus, magnesium and calcium. Of the components which, released in the infusion, perform a diuretic and purifying action. They can help the body reduce water retention and facilitate the drainage of excess fluids. The significant content of vitamin C makes this fruit useful for strengthening the immune system. To support these beneficial aspects, the blend includes dog rose and hibiscus flowers, rich in vitamin C, and whole calendula flowers with diuretic and purifying properties. The peels of the beans, rich in mineral salts (magnesium), vitamins and polyphenols, are combined with the cocoa husks. They contain the known theobromine; a substance with excellent diuretic and energizing properties, useful as a natural remedy against irritations and headaches. Cocoa peels are rich in antioxidants, like strawberries and other natural elements of the infusion; substances that can help fight free radicals and their damage to our cells. They provide energy thanks to theobromine, stimulating our good mood and metabolism. Other elements present facilitate the presence of antioxidants that promote regular blood pressure, the well-being of the venous walls and the cardiovascular system.

In the infusion, the cocoa component helps warm up the coldest days, and is perfect for an energy breakfast if drunk hot. Drinking this infusion cold, on a sunny day, is perfect as a refresher. The sweet touch of cocoa goes well with strawberry and orange, for a fresh and fruity note, which also helps digestion.

Origins and History of cultivation

The blend includes several natural elements. First of all, the cocoa peels, i.e. the fibrous envelopes that surround the cocoa beans (seeds). The peels are separated from the seeds during production, and if historically they were considered just a waste, today they have become precious for their beneficial properties. Infused, the skins create a drink with a dark chocolate flavor, but without sugar or calories. Already in South American civilizations, the peel was used by removing the outer skin and infusing it in boiling water.

Cocoa is a plant native to the areas of Central and South America, known for giving life to one of the most loved foods in the world. From its seeds, called cocoa beans, various food products are obtained. They are processed into cocoa butter, cocoa powder and chocolate. The natural place of cultivation is the equatorial one, with a hot and very humid climate typical of the South American rainforests. It grows naturally in the equatorial territory, now in different parts of the world. Strawberries are native to the temperate regions of the northern hemisphere, and if in ancient times they existed only wild, for several centuries there have been many varieties cultivated and spread all over the world for their exquisite fruits. The large-fruited cultivated strawberry we know (Fragaria ananassa) originated in Europe in the eighteenth century, and since then many countries have developed their own varieties. In particular during the 19th century, varieties were created that were suitable for every different climate. To date, the many varieties of strawberries are produced both for immediate consumption and for processing (dried, frozen, preserved, as juice, etc.). They are very perishable fruits, which must be picked by hand and immediately processed nearby. In addition to the most common cultivated variety, wild forest or alpine strawberries, they produce small fruits with an intense flavour.

Plant and fruit

The components of the infusion are many, and the mixture contains leaves and flowers of different origins. Cocoa husks stemsno from the plant of the genus Theobroma cacao L. (Sterculiaceae). It is an evergreen tropical plant of the Theobroma cacao genus, belonging to the Malvaceae family. It grows naturally in hot and very humid climates, and after four years the cocoa tree produces oval fruits. These are elongated pods that each contain 20 to 60 seeds, covered in a sticky, sweetish white pulp.
Strawberry is the fruit of the plant of the genus Fragaria, which includes over 20 species of flowering plants of the rose family (Rosaceae). The most widespread is Fragaria ×ananassa. These are low-growing herbaceous plants, with the famous leaves with a serrated edge and usually hairy. They usually show white flowers, and fruits that are botanically considered "accessory fruits" and not real berries. The pulp is made up of the receptacle of the flower, incorporated by the numerous real fruits, the achenes - what we commonly call strawberry seeds.
Rosa canina is a plant that belongs to the Rosaceae family, among the hundreds of species and cultivars present. Both the petals and the fruits are used in food and herbal medicine. It grows like a shrub with thorny stems, serrated leaves and flowers colored. The fruit (rosehip) is composed of dried fruits enclosed in a cup, endowed with beneficial properties for health. Most of the species of Rose are native to Asia.
The Malus domestica plant of the family of Rosaceae is the one that gives us apples. It is a tree native to Asia, now widespread throughout the planet. The fruits are diversified in colors and in many varieties: yellow, green, red, and tc.
Calendula officinalis is a herbaceous plant part of the Asteraceae - Compositae family and comes from the Asterales order. It grows up to about 80 centimeters, and displays yellow-orange flowers (for which it is also called fiorrancio). The flowers are known for their beneficial calming and antispasmodic properties, and their soothing cosmetic qualities on the skin.
Hibiscus is a herbaceous plant which in its tropical variety (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis) is known for its colorful and beneficial flowers. It is a tree that grows best in full sun, in moist, well-drained soil. With over 200 species and many other cultivars, the flowers come in a wide range of colors from white to red, pink, yellow and orange.
Orange peels derive from the fruit of the Citrus sinensis plant, of the Rutaceae family (rue family). It is a fruit tree that grows up to about 5 meters on drained and sandy soils, preferably in full sun. Gives sweet oranges, round fruits, with leathery rind and juicy internal pulp. Other varieties give mandarin orange (Citrus reticulata) and sour or Seville orange (Citrus aurantium).

Nutritional values of the organic chocolate and strawberry infusion

In terms of nutrients, cocoa peels, strawberries and other elements of the infusion are rich in essential nutrients. Including minerals magnesium, iron, zinc, calcium. They contain B vitamins, vitamin C and vitamin A, and substances such as theobromine. How to use the ingredients in the infusion The infusion is obtained by placing about 3-5 grams of the strawberry and chocolate mixture in a cup (250 ml) with water at 100 °C. Leave to infuse for 10 to 12 minutes, before drinking the infusion. Add honey or sugar, if desired.

Chocolate and strawberry infusion: side effects and contraindications

Despite the benefits, it is necessary not to exceed the doses of the infusion, nor to consume it continuously for too long periods. Excessive intake can cause diarrhea, nausea, headache. People who suffer from tachycardia should evaluate the presence of cocoa shells and theobromine with their doctor. The strawberry has an allergenic power, so be careful for those suffering from allergies to this fruit; for allergy sufferers, we recommend evaluating all the ingredients of the infusion. Caution is advised in pregnant or breastfeeding women.