The Olmec people around the Gulf of Mexico began to cultivate cacao (aka cocoa). Soon the Aztecs, Mayans and other MesoAmericans were also cultivating the psychoactive plant, which they believed was as a gift from the gods. Cacao was used in religious rituals and burial practices.
Source: Dillinger, T. L., et al. (2000). Food of the Gods: Cure for Humanity? J. Nutr, 130(8).
| Drugs: | Cacao (cocoa, chocolate) |
|---|---|
| Regions: | South America |
| Topics: | Cultural factors (social, religious, ritual) |
