The history of chocolate, types of chocolate and the consumption of chocolate have proven to be a perennial source of inspirational conversation for people who have a sweet tooth, for those fighting depression or simply those who want to experiment with a natural aphrodisiac. The English word ‘chocolate’ has its origins in the Aztec word ‘xocalalt’, where ‘xococ’ means bitter and ‘alt’ means water.
Most people don’t realize that the cinnamon in their breakfast pastry is actually from the bark of a species of evergreen tree. Another little known fact is that this spice dates back to antiquity, mentioned in old Egyptian scrolls and Old Testament text. It was once so prized that it was often used as a gift for royalty. Most people probably don’t equate the aromatic sticks tied onto their holiday wreaths as the regal gifts of kings.
Of the common herbs and spices, cinnamon is the only regal offering that has been used for so many reasons, such as:
The valued vanilla bean originated in the Veracruz region of Mexicoand was introduced to the world by the Spanish explorers who brought it back with them from the new world. According to old Mexican mythology, the blood that was shed by the Princess Xanat and her lover caused the vanilla orchid to spring forth from the ground. Perhaps this myth is what led women in the 1930s to use a dab of vanilla behind their ears as a scent for attracting men. Undoubtedly, the calming scent of this world beloved aromatic is sought after for its soothing and smooth touch on the palette as well as for your olfactory senses.