Of all the sweet gifts presented from lovers to loved ones, chocolate is king. Not just on Valentine’s Day. If you want know more about the historic connections between love and chocolate, scientific views on this topic and why Germany became one of the world’s leading chocolate exporter, read on:
Looking to buy food gifts for Valentine’s Day right now? Visit our sister site TheTasteOfGermanyfor a selection of German chocolates, marzipan and our unique large pretzel heart!
Chocolate as Fertility Booster
The connection between love and the “elixir of the gods” can be traced back to the ancient Aztecs. They were the first to discover the stimulating, medicinal effects of cacao, the powder derived from fermented cocoa beans. In honor of Xochiquetzal, the goddess of fertility, they frequently consumed “xocolatl,” a bitter, beverage made with cacao, vanilla, chili pepper, and achiote. The Emperor Montezuma, ruler of the Aztecs, is said to have downed 50 cups per day, to enhance his libido and virility.
Chocolate as Aphrodisiac
In the mid-19th century, Russian chemist Alekasandr Voskresensky discovered that chocolate’s fatigue-fighting, mood-enhancing properties come from the chemical compound theobromine, found in the beans of the Theobroma cacao tree. The word Theobroma in turn derives from the Greek words “theo” (Gods) and “brosi” (food), hence the term “food of the gods.” Theobromine stimulates the heart, thus furthering the the notion that chocolate is an aphrodisiac. A century later, scientist discovered that chocolate consumption releases serotonin and endorphins which produce a relaxed or lightly euphoric feeling. Just the aroma of chocolate can make people feel less stressed and more relaxed. And UK scientists found that the sensation of melting chocolate in the mouth beats kissing when measured in terms of a long-lasting “brain buzz” and increased heart rate.
Chocolate as “Seelentröster”
“Chocolate is …a beneficent restorer of exhausted power.” -Baron Justus von Liebig. There are good reasons why chocolate became the premier “Seelentröster” (lit. comforter of the soul) in the country of Germany. First, German harbor cities like Hamburg and Bremen served for many centuries as hubs for the coffee and cocoa bean trade. Massive facilities to store and process the beans sprung up in and near these cities. This spawned the mass manufacture of chocolate during the industrial revolution and Germany’s machine building expertise enabled producers to make a large variety of chocolate bars, hollow chocolate figures, cocoa drinks and other creations. (also see The Guide to German chocolates and Confections ). So, cocoa products became widely available in Germany since the industrial revolution to lighten the mood and comfort the soul.
Chocolate as Creative Stimulation
Whether you’re looking for a quality gift for your loved one this Valentine’s Day or seeking a delicious de-stresser, make sure to look for German brands such as Ritter, Riegelein, Sarotti, Halloren, Milka, Seitenbacher, or Pickerd’s Cocoa Glazes. Shop for fine chocolates at our online shop!
