The Raw Journal
From Beans to Butter: Your Complete Guide to Raw Cacao
Raw cacao is one of nature's most extraordinary superfoods — rich in antioxidants, magnesium, and mood-boosting compounds. At Raw Living, we stock a full range of organic, minimally processed raw cacao products sourced directly from small Peruvian farming cooperatives, including cacao nibs, cacao powder, cacao butter, cacao paste, and ceremonial grade cacao. Whether you're making your own raw chocolate at home or looking for the easiest way to add cacao to your daily routine, this guide covers everything you need to know. 🌍 At Raw Living, Cacao is a Way of Life At Raw Living, cacao isn't just a product — it's a passion. We've been consuming it almost daily for over twenty years, and our love for it shows no signs of slowing down. We were first introduced to raw cacao beans by David Wolfe back in 2004, and since then we've spent two decades buying, selling, eating, making, researching, and just generally celebrating everything cacao. In 2024, Kate travelled to Peru to meet the farmers behind our beans — a truly remarkable experience you can read about here and in her ebook, Adventures in Peru. 🌎 Where Does Cacao Come From? Cacao only grows within a narrow tropical band known as the "cacao belt" — roughly 20 degrees either side of the equator, where the hot, humid conditions the cacao plant loves are found year-round. Peru, Ecuador, Costa Rica, Bali and Hawaii all sit within this belt, as does much of Southeast Asia. Cacao was first introduced to Africa via the islands of São Tomé and Príncipe in the late 1800s, and today West Africa grows around 70% of the world's cacao — with Ivory Coast and Ghana alone accounting for the majority of that. It's important to understand the history behind this shift. Slavery in cacao production began in South America and the Caribbean, where European colonisers used enslaved African labour to work their plantations. As slavery was abolished across Latin America in the 19th century, production was deliberately moved to Africa, where forced labour was still available. That colonial legacy of exploitation hasn't entirely disappeared — child labour and modern slavery remain serious issues in West African cacao supply chains today. If you want to enjoy cacao that is rooted in a cleaner, fairer history, sourcing from South America — where cacao originated — is the most meaningful choice you can make. ✨ Why Our Cacao is Different At Raw Living, we work closely with a small cooperative of Peruvian farmers who produce certified organic cacao using minimal temperature processing — and it's worth emphasising just how rare this is. Even within South America, the majority of cacao is not organic; gaining certification in these remote, rural regions is a lengthy and expensive process that most small farmers simply can't access. And while Peru and Ecuador produce some of the finest cacao in the world, the vast majority of it is still heat-treated during processing, because higher temperatures make the whole operation faster, cheaper, and easier to scale. The result is a product that has lost much of its natural nutritional value before it even reaches you. What we offer is something genuinely different — truly raw, organic cacao that has been handled with care at every stage, preserving the full spectrum of nutrients, enzymes, and flavour that makes it so special. 🍦 The Different Types of Raw Cacao Product 🌰 Cacao Beans: The Beginning of Everything Think of the cacao bean as the seed of a fruit. Cacao pods are filled with a white, creamy pulp surrounding many seeds — it's these seeds that eventually become everything we know and love about chocolate. Once harvested, the beans are typically fermented in the sun and then roasted, and are sold either with or without their skins. We used to stock cacao beans at Raw Living but found they weren't as popular as our other products — however if you do come across them elsewhere, they make a wonderful snack eaten with a drizzle of honey or yacon syrup! 🍫 Cacao Nibs UK: The Snackable Superfood Cacao nibs are simply the cacao bean broken down into smaller pieces — think of them like chopped almonds. They're one of the most versatile raw cacao products you can have in your kitchen, and once you start adding them to things, you'll wonder how you ever managed without them. Sprinkle them over a smoothie bowl or granola, toss them into a trail mix, or grind them up to make your own raw chocolate at home. But don't stop there — cacao nibs work beautifully in savoury cooking too. Try scattering them over a salad, or adding them to dishes with tomato and chilli. Think mole — that rich, complex Mexican sauce where cacao and chilli were always meant to be together. 🌶️ 🍫 Cacao Paste, Cacao Liquor & Ceremonial Cacao: The Chocolate Maker's Essential Cacao paste and cacao liquor are simply two names for the same product — the whole cacao bean ground down into, you guessed it, a paste. It's dense, rich, and intensely chocolatey, and is best used for making your own raw chocolate creations at home. It's also worth addressing ceremonial grade cacao here, as this term has become increasingly popular — and increasingly misused. Ceremonial grade has become a widely used label for raw cacao paste, but the truth is that most products sold under this name are no different from a good quality raw cacao paste. True ceremonial grade cacao has been blessed by indigenous priests in the region where it is grown — typically Ecuador or Peru — as part of a long spiritual tradition. We do stock some truly ceremonial grade cacao here at Raw Living, and if that lineage and intention matters to you, it's worth seeking out. But if you're simply looking for a paste to use in your own at-home cacao ceremony, our raw cacao liquor will serve you beautifully. We also offer our Ceremonial Bar, which has been blended with spices to make your own cacao ritual even easier to prepare. 🫓 From Paste to Powder & Butter To get to the next stage, the cacao paste is separated into two products — cacao butter and cacao powder. Put the two back together and you essentially have the whole bean again. The cacao butter is the fat with the solids removed; the cacao powder is the solids with the fat removed. 🪴 Raw Cacao Butter: The Purest Cacao Fat Cacao butter is a wonderful option for anyone who has a sensitivity to cacao, as none of the stimulating substances remain in the fat. It's also a joy to use in the kitchen — perfect for making your own fudges, sweets, and cakes. You'll find plenty of inspiration in Kate's books Raw Magic and The Magic Kitchen. And it's not just for eating — try rubbing it directly onto your skin, or drop a chunk into a warm bath for the most aromatic cacao soak! 🛁 ☕ Organic Cacao Powder: The Everyday Essential Cacao powder is currently the most popular form of cacao, and the easiest to use — simply spoon it into hot or cold drinks and desserts for an intense chocolatey hit. It's worth being honest about something here, though. To our knowledge, there is currently no such thing as truly raw cacao powder on the market. When a product is labelled raw, it simply means it has been made from unroasted beans — but that doesn't mean it has been processed at low temperatures. We have searched high and low, and we are not aware of anyone producing cacao powder that is genuinely minimally processed. Part of the issue comes down to EU regulations on cadmium. Peruvian soil is naturally high in cadmium due to its volcanic nature, and when cacao is concentrated into powder, the cadmium level in the solids rises significantly — often above the EU legal limit of 0.60 mg/kg. This means that the small-scale Peruvian producers who were once making traditionally processed cacao powder are no longer able to sell their product in Europe. It's a frustrating situation, and one we hope will change — but in the meantime, we believe in being transparent about it. 🍫 Just Here for the Chocolate? We've Got You Covered! If all of this feels like more than you bargained for and you just want to dive straight into something delicious, we've got you covered there too. We make six amazing raw chocolate bars, and our newest addition is our Magic Buttons — raw chocolate buttons that are as snackable as they sound. We also offer Tonic Power, a chocolate and maca blend with Chinese tonic herbs; Hi-Trail, an activated trail mix featuring cacao nibs; and Magic Mix, a trail mix starring our famous chocolate buttons. And if you'd like to try making your own raw chocolate at home, Kate has put together a step-by-step video guide walking you through everything you need to know — it's a brilliant place to start. As well as our own Raw Living range, we also stock some brilliant brands we truly believe in. Paccari is an award-winning Ecuadorian cacao brand whose nibs and paste are absolutely worth exploring, and Anima Mundi Herbals' Heirloom Cacao Powder has become a firm customer favourite too. So whatever your cacao journey looks like — from bean to butter, or straight to the chocolate — we genuinely believe we have something for everyone. 🌿 🏆 Independently Rated: One of the UK's most ethical chocolate brands We're proud to share that Raw Living has been independently rated by the Good Shopping Guide in their 2026 Ethical Chocolate Comparison — one of the UK's most respected ethical consumer benchmarks. We came 3rd in the UK, scoring 92 out of 100 against an industry benchmark of 70. For us, this isn't just a badge — it's a reflection of the values we've built the business on: organic certification, direct relationships with small Peruvian farming cooperatives, and a genuine commitment to transparency at every stage of our supply chain. When you buy cacao from Raw Living, you're choosing a product that's been held to account, not just marketed with good intentions. View the Ethical Chocolate Shopping Guide here. ❓ Your Cacao Questions Answered Q: What's the Difference Between Cacao and Cocoa? A: Cacao and cocoa come from the same bean, but the difference lies in how they are processed. Cacao refers to minimally processed products made from unroasted or lightly treated beans, which retain far more of their natural nutrients, enzymes, and antioxidants. Cocoa is roasted at high temperatures and often alkalised, which gives it a milder flavour but significantly reduces its nutritional value. If you're buying for health benefits, cacao is always the better choice. Q: Cacao Paste vs Cacao Liquor — What's the Difference? A: They are exactly the same thing — just two different names for the whole cacao bean ground into a paste. You'll see both terms used interchangeably, so don't let it confuse you! Q: Which Cacao Product is Best for Making Raw Chocolate at Home? A: Cacao paste or liquor is your starting point — it forms the base of any raw chocolate recipe. You'll then add cacao butter for richness and a sweetener such as coconut sugar, yacon syrup, or raw honey. Check out Kate's step-by-step video guide for everything you need to get started. Q: Are Cacao Nibs the Same as Chocolate Chips? A: Not quite! Cacao nibs are pure crushed cacao beans with nothing added — no sugar, no dairy, no sweetener. They have a rich, slightly bitter chocolate flavour and are far more nutritious than chocolate chips. Think of them as chocolate in its most natural form. Q: Is Cacao Butter Safe for People Who Are Sensitive to Cacao? A: Yes — cacao butter is the pure fat extracted from the cacao bean, and it contains none of the stimulating compounds found in cacao solids. Most people who find cacao too stimulating tolerate cacao butter perfectly well. It's also wonderful used externally on the skin. 🌿 Q: What Does Organic Cacao Mean and Why Does it Matter? A: Organic certification means the cacao has been grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilisers. In the case of our Peruvian cacao, it also signals a commitment to traditional, small-scale farming practices. Organic certification in remote growing regions is genuinely difficult and expensive to obtain, which is why truly organic cacao is rarer than you might think. ✨ Ready to explore? Browse our complete cacao collection and find your perfect match 🍫
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What Is Klamath Lake Algae? An Excerpt from "Primordial Food" by Christian Drapeau, MSc.
Some superfoods come and go, but AFA algae has stood the test of time — consumed by ancient civilisations, studied by modern scientists, and loved by natural health enthusiasts around the world. At Raw Living, we have been working with Klamath Lake AFA personally for nearly four decades, and it remains one of the foods we feel most passionate about sharing. Whether you are new to AFA or a long-time fan, this page is your complete guide to understanding why this remarkable microalgae deserves a place in your daily routine.
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Lucuma - The Superfood Sweetener That's A Staple in Raw Vegan Cuisine
Lucuma powder has been a staple in the Raw Living kitchen since 2007, when we first discovered the extraordinary world of Peruvian superfoods. Native to the high Andean valleys of Peru, this golden fruit has been treasured for over 2,000 years — and once you taste it, it's easy to understand why. With its uniquely warm, caramel-toffee sweetness, remarkable nutritional profile, and extraordinary versatility in the kitchen, lucuma powder is one of those ingredients that quietly becomes indispensable. Whether you're a seasoned raw food lover or just beginning to explore natural alternatives to refined sugar, this is one superfood well worth getting to know. 🌿 Lucuma powder is one of our favourite raw food ingredients, and one we've been using since 2007, when we first discovered the world of Peruvian superfoods alongside maca and cacao. Since then, it's become a permanent staple in our kitchens, and we think once you try it, it will in yours too. You might have seen lucuma described as a superfood, but we'd put it in a category of its own. What it actually is is a highly nutritious, raw, vegan, organic powdered fruit with a naturally sweet, shortbread-like flavour, which makes it an incredible gluten-free flour substitute and an absolute must-have for raw vegan cakes and desserts. 🌿 Why You'll Never See These Superfoods Whole Outside of South America One of the things that makes Peruvian superfoods so special is how deeply tied they are to their homeland; and in some cases, that connection is protected by law. Maca root is the clearest example. In 2002, the Peruvian government passed legislation banning the export of whole maca roots and seeds, classifying maca as a national heritage crop. Only processed forms (powder, extract, and flakes) can legally leave the country. Peru takes this seriously: in 2014, Chinese buyers were caught smuggling whole roots across the border in a scandal that sent maca prices soaring worldwide and triggered government seizures at the Ecuadorian border- you might remember the great maca shortage of 2015! It's a remarkable story that speaks to just how valuable these ancient crops really are. Lucuma and yacon tell a slightly different story. There's no equivalent export ban, but you'll almost never encounter either in their whole form outside of South America — and the reason is simply nature. The lucuma fruit is extraordinarily delicate and perishable, ripening rapidly and bruising easily, making it impossible to export whole over long distances. The yacon tuber, meanwhile, is composed of around 70% water and deteriorates quickly once harvested. What the rest of the world receives instead is the good stuff — lucuma powder and yacon syrup — made by carefully dehydrating or processing the fresh crop at low temperatures to lock in the nutrients. In each case, whether through law or nature, these are crops that belong to Peru. We think that's worth remembering every time you add a spoonful to your smoothie. 🌎 🍂 The Taste of Lucuma: Why Do Peruvians Love It? The lucuma fruit itself is roughly the size of an orange, with a hard green skin — not unlike an avocado from the outside — and a vivid golden-yellow flesh inside. That flesh is unusually dry and starchy for a fruit, with a texture similar to a cooked egg yolk, which is why lucuma is rarely eaten raw. Where it truly shines is in desserts. The flavour is unlike anything else — a naturally sweet, complex blend of maple syrup, toffee, caramel and sweet potato, with a warmth that makes it extraordinary in ice creams, mousses and cakes. In Peru, lucuma ice cream is the nation's favourite flavour — outselling both chocolate and vanilla. That's not a small claim in a country with access to countless tropical fruits. There are even 26 villages across Peru named after the fruit, which tells you everything about how deeply it's woven into the national identity. What we stock at Raw Living is dried lucuma powder — the whole fruit, dehydrated at low temperatures and milled to a fine powder, with nothing added or removed. It's the purest, most convenient way to bring that extraordinary lucuma flavour into your kitchen, whether you're making smoothies, raw cakes, or desserts. 🍂 🌟 Nutritional Benefits of Lucuma Powder 🫐 Rich in Antioxidants Lucuma powder is particularly rich in polyphenols and carotenoids — two of the most well-studied antioxidant groups in nutrition. These compounds help protect the body's cells against oxidative stress caused by free radicals. Lucuma is especially high in xanthophylls, a subgroup of carotenoids responsible for its vivid golden colour, as well as beta-carotene, a natural precursor to vitamin A, which contributes to normal vision and normal skin health. 🌿 Natural Source of Fibre Lucuma contains both soluble and insoluble dietary fibre, which contributes to normal digestion and helps maintain healthy bowel function. Its soluble fibre also acts as a prebiotic, feeding the beneficial bacteria in your gut and supporting a healthy gut microbiome — something increasingly recognised as central to overall wellbeing. 🩸 Gentle on Blood Sugar Lucuma is widely regarded as having a low glycaemic index, meaning it provides a gentle natural sweetness without the sharp blood sugar spike associated with refined sugars. Compared to conventional sugar, lucuma brings fibre, antioxidants and micronutrients alongside its sweetness, making it a far more nutritious alternative for baking and raw desserts. ⚡ Mineral Boost Lucuma is a natural source of several key minerals including iron, potassium, calcium, magnesium and phosphorus. Iron supports energy production and is particularly valuable for those on plant-based diets. Potassium supports healthy muscle function and cardiovascular health, while calcium and phosphorus contribute to strong bones and teeth. 🛡️ Vitamin C Lucuma contains vitamin C, which contributes to the normal function of the immune system and to normal collagen formation — supporting the normal function of skin, bones and cartilage. Vitamin C also contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue and helps protect cells from oxidative stress. 🧠 B Vitamins for Energy Lucuma is a source of B vitamins, which contribute to normal energy-yielding metabolism and normal psychological function — supporting mental clarity and helping you feel your best day to day. 🍰 How to Use Lucuma Powder: From Smoothies to Raw Desserts One of the things we love most about lucuma powder is how effortlessly it works across so many different recipes. Its naturally sweet, caramel-toffee flavour enhances without overpowering, and because it's a whole dried fruit, it adds genuine nutritional value wherever you use it — not just sweetness. Here are some of our favourite ways to enjoy it: Raw Vegan Cakes & Desserts Lucuma is a beautiful addition to any raw vegan dessert. It blends smoothly into cake mixes, adding a rich, biscuity sweetness that works particularly well with cashew-based fillings and chocolate layers. Try replacing a portion of your usual sweetener with lucuma powder for a more complex, rounded flavour. Try it in one of Kate's signature recipes - Zillionaire Shortbread. Pie Crusts & Base Layers Blend lucuma powder into your nut and date crust bases for a subtle caramel depth that takes raw pie crusts to another level. It pairs especially well with pecan, almond and walnut bases. Plant-Based Milks Stir a teaspoon into oat, almond or coconut milk for an instant naturally sweet, creamy drink. It dissolves easily and adds a warmth that makes it feel almost like a dessert in a glass — no sugar needed. It's a star ingredient in Anima Mundi Herbals Happiness Powder and their Collagen Booster Dirty Rose Chai. Smoothies Blend with banana, mango or berries and your favourite nut milk for a nutrient-rich smoothie with a naturally sweet, tropical depth. Lucuma works beautifully with cacao, maca and vanilla for a truly indulgent blend. Chia Pudding Mix into your chia pudding base before setting overnight for added sweetness and a gorgeous golden colour. It pairs particularly well with coconut milk and fresh mango. Elevates your chia breakfast into a true feast! Raw Ice Cream & Frozen Desserts As Peru's favourite ice cream flavour, it should come as no surprise that lucuma is a brilliant addition to homemade raw ice creams. Blend into a frozen banana base or a cashew cream for a naturally sweet, creamy frozen dessert that needs no refined sugar whatsoever. Raw Chocolate & Cacao Treats Combine lucuma powder with cacao butter, raw cacao powder and a little coconut oil for a silky raw chocolate with a hint of natural caramel. It's one of those flavour combinations that just works — the bitterness of cacao and the gentle sweetness of lucuma are a perfect match. Find it in Radek's Lion's Mane Chocolate and the Coracao Berkeley Bar Raw Fudge Stir into raw fudge recipes alongside cashew butter, coconut oil and cacao butter for a creamy, indulgent texture and a depth of flavour that refined sugar simply can't replicate. Try our Macambo Buttery Bites for an amazing South American treat! Lucuma powder's gentle sweetness and beautifully versatile flavour make it a true pantry essential for anyone who loves cooking and baking with whole, natural ingredients. As a general guide, start with one to two tablespoons per recipe and adjust to taste — a little goes a long way. 🍂 For loads more inspiration, you'll find lucuma recipes throughout Kate's Raw Magic book — the original superfood recipe book and still one of our absolute favourites. From raw cakes to smoothie bowls, it's the perfect place to start if you're new to cooking with superfoods. ❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Lucuma Powder Q: What does lucuma taste like? A: Lucuma has a uniquely complex natural sweetness — most people describe it as a blend of maple syrup, toffee, caramel and sweet potato, with a warmth and depth that's quite unlike any other fruit. It's gentle rather than sharp, which is exactly what makes it so beautiful in raw desserts and smoothies. Q: Is lucuma powder the same as the fresh fruit? A: Yes — lucuma powder is simply the whole fruit, dehydrated at low temperatures and milled to a fine powder, with nothing added or removed. You're getting the pure fruit in its most convenient form. The fresh fruit itself is almost impossible to find outside of South America, as it's too delicate and perishable to travel well over long distances. Q: Can I use lucuma powder as a sugar substitute? A: Absolutely — lucuma powder is one of our favourite natural alternatives to refined sugar in raw desserts, smoothies and baking. It brings fibre, vitamins and minerals alongside its sweetness, making it far more nourishing than empty-calorie refined sugar. As a starting guide, try one to two tablespoons per recipe and adjust to taste. Q: Is lucuma powder suitable for vegans? A: Yes — lucuma powder is 100% plant-based, naturally vegan, raw and gluten-free. It contains nothing but pure dried lucuma fruit, making it suitable for virtually every dietary preference. Q: Where does Raw Living's lucuma come from? A: Our lucuma powder is sourced from Peru, the fruit's native home and still the best place in the world to grow it. The fruit has been cultivated in the high Andean valleys for over 2,000 years and holds a special place in Peruvian culture — lucuma ice cream is the nation's most popular flavour, outselling both chocolate and vanilla. Q: How much lucuma powder should I take? A: There's no set recommended daily amount for lucuma powder as a food ingredient. Most people use one to two tablespoons per recipe — whether that's in a smoothie, a raw cake or a chia pudding. It's a whole food rather than a supplement, so enjoy it as part of a varied, balanced diet. Buy Raw Living Organic Peruvian Lucuma powder here.
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Holistic Dental Care: Nadine Artemis' 8 Steps For Successful Self-Dentistry
Discover Nadine Artemis' 8-step holistic dental care protocol for a healthier oral biome. Natural, effective self-dentistry you can do at home every day.
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A Guide to Kate Magic's Books: Every Title Explained
Discover every Kate Magic book — from raw food recipes to women's hormonal health, metaphysics and beyond. Find the right title for where you are right now.
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Purple Corn Extract: Benefits, Uses and Why It's One of Our Favourite Superfoods
Purple corn extract is one of the most potent antioxidant superfoods available, containing significantly higher levels of anthocyanins than blueberries. Sourced from Peru and used for centuries, it supports everything from reducing inflammation to stimulating the pineal gland — and it tastes remarkably good too. Purple corn extract is one of our all-time favourite products, and we've been selling it since 2006 — back when David Wolfe first introduced us to the incredible range of Peruvian superfoods alongside maca and lucuma. It was David who first asked the Peruvian farmers if they could begin producing raw cacao, and in doing so, opened the door to a whole family of extraordinary crops that would go on to define the raw food movement. We love purple corn extract for four main reasons: It has a genuinely great taste — something like Ribena, which makes it unlike most superfoods 😋 It produces a beautiful, vivid purple colour that is unmatched by any other natural food colouring 💜 It is exceptionally rich in anthocyanins — the antioxidant compounds that make it a true superfood 💪 It is third-eye opening and pineal gland stimulating — yes, we'll explain that in more detail below 👁️ 🌽 What Is Purple Corn Extract — and Why Does It Matter? Purple corn is a variety of maize grown in the Andean highlands of Peru. But what sets it apart from ordinary corn is its extraordinary concentration of anthocyanins — the pigment compounds responsible for its deep purple colour, and the reason it has been prized in South America for thousands of years. When purple corn started gaining popularity in the West, a lot of people began selling the flour — and honestly, that's a waste of money. Purple corn flour is essentially cornflour. It doesn't taste of much, won't turn your food purple, contains no more antioxidants than blueberries or red grapes, and won't do anything for your third eye. The extract is a completely different story. By isolating the anthocyanins, you get all the potency of the plant in concentrated form. Our current purple corn extract is a 30:1 extract — meaning 30kg of purple corn goes into every 1kg of extract. Previously we stocked a 7:1 extract, so this is a significant step up in quality. It is, as far as we're aware, the most pure and potent purple corn extract available anywhere in the world today. Buy Raw Living Purple Corn Extract here 💜 What Are Anthocyanins and Why Are They So Powerful? The word anthocyanin comes from the Greek — anthos meaning flower, and kyanos meaning blue. Anthocyanins are the plant pigments responsible for the purple, blue and red colours found in many fruits and vegetables, and they belong to the broader family of plant chemicals called flavonoids. They are also among the most studied antioxidant compounds in nutritional science. When there's an excess of oxygen-based free radicals in the body, it creates a state called oxidative stress. Antioxidants act as scavengers, mopping up these free radicals before they can cause damage to cells and tissues. Researchers in Texas found that the anthocyanin content of purple corn is 16.4mg per serving — compared to no more than 3.8mg in blueberries. That's more than four times the concentration, which is remarkable. Studies have shown purple corn to: Reduce inflammation Inhibit the spread of cancer cells Decrease cholesterol levels Reduce atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) Help prevent obesity and diabetes (shown in studies in Japan) Protect the retina and support vision (noted by researchers in Ohio) References: Studies cited include research published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, Journal of Nutrition, and Cancer Letters — full references listed at the foot of this article. 👁️ Does Purple Corn Extract Support the Pineal Gland? This is one of the things that makes purple corn extract genuinely unlike any other superfood we stock. In our experience — and in the experience of many customers over nearly two decades — purple corn has real psychoactive properties. It awakens and stimulates the pineal gland, and for sensitive individuals, this can be quite noticeable. What that actually looks like varies from person to person. For some, it's a gentle heightening of awareness. For others, it's more pronounced. Our advice: start slowly. A quarter of a teaspoon is enough to feel something. A whole teaspoon? We'd suggest not operating heavy machinery! 😄 If the pineal gland benefits are what you're drawn to, try a full teaspoon combined with suma or mucuna pruriens for a more potent effect. Buy Raw Living Mucuna Extract here. Buy Raw Living Suma powder here. There's also an ancient Hopi prophecy that has stayed with us since we first heard it in the mid-2000s: "When purple corn comes to the West, that is the time of the Great Awakening." Having sold more purple corn extract over the past fifteen years than probably anyone else in the West, we feel quietly honoured to have played a part in that. ✨ 🍹 How to Use Purple Corn Extract Purple corn extract is incredibly versatile, and because it's a 30:1 concentrate, a little goes a long way. Here are our favourite ways to use it: Chicha Morada — the traditional Peruvian drink made with purple corn, lime juice and a touch of sweetness. You can also make a warming version with chilli. There's a recipe in our Raw Magic book. As a natural food colouring — it's perfect for mylks, smoothies and raw desserts. Purple guacamole is always a hit! 💜 Combined with cacao — as a Peruvian crop, purple corn pairs beautifully with raw cacao. It's one of the ingredients that makes our legendary Quantum Cake what it is. 🍫 Buy the Raw Magic superfoods recipe book hereBuy our Raw Living Greener Grass super greens blend containing Purple Corn ExtractGet the Legendary Quantum Cake recipe here 🌾 Why You Should Always Buy the Extract, Not the Flour It's worth returning to this point because it's one we feel strongly about. When purple corn first started gaining traction in the West, a wave of products hit the market — and most of them were flour. If you've ever bought purple corn flour and been underwhelmed, this is why. The anthocyanins — the compounds that give purple corn its colour, its antioxidant power, and its pineal gland properties — are concentrated in the extract. The flour contains almost none of these in meaningful amounts. Always buy the purple corn extract, and always use it in small doses given its potency. ❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Purple Corn Extract Q: What is purple corn extract good for? A: Purple corn extract is primarily valued for its exceptionally high anthocyanin content, which gives it powerful antioxidant properties. Studies suggest it can help reduce inflammation, support cardiovascular health, protect vision, and assist with blood sugar regulation. It is also well known for its pineal gland stimulating properties. Q: How is purple corn extract different from purple corn flour? A: Purple corn flour is essentially cornflour — it lacks meaningful concentrations of anthocyanins, has very little flavour, and won't colour your food. The extract isolates the active compounds and is vastly more potent. Our 30:1 extract means 30kg of corn goes into every 1kg of product. Q: How much purple corn extract should I take? A: Start with a quarter of a teaspoon and see how you respond, particularly if you are sensitive to the effects of different foods. A full teaspoon is a significant dose. Because of its psychoactive properties, we recommend building up slowly and not taking a large amount if you need to drive or operate machinery. Q: What does purple corn extract taste like? A: It has a pleasant, slightly sweet flavour — many people compare it to Ribena. This makes it one of the more enjoyable superfoods to incorporate into drinks and recipes, and it produces a striking deep purple colour in anything you add it to. Q: Can I use purple corn extract as a natural food colouring? A: Yes — it's one of the best natural food colourings available. It creates a vivid, stable purple colour in smoothies, mylks, raw desserts and even savoury dishes. Unlike artificial colourings, it also brings genuine nutritional benefits. Q: Where does purple corn come from? A: Purple corn is native to Peru and has been cultivated in the Andes for thousands of years. It remains a staple of Peruvian food culture, most notably in the traditional drink Chicha Morada. Our extract is sourced directly from Peruvian farmers. 🌿 🛒 Ready to Try Purple Corn Extract? If you've been curious about purple corn extract, now is a great time to try it. Our current stock is a 30:1 extract — the most potent we've ever carried — and after nine months of searching to find the right supplier, we're genuinely excited to have it back.Whether you're drawn to the antioxidant benefits, the natural colour, the Peruvian heritage, or the pineal gland properties, purple corn extract earns its place in the top ten superfoods we sell. Try it for yourself and let us know what you notice. ✨ Buy Raw Living Purple Corn Extract here References 1. Cevallos-Casals BA, Cisneros-Zevallos L. Stoichiometric and kinetic studies of phenolic antioxidants from Andean purple corn and red-fleshed sweet potato. J Agric Food Chem. 2003;51(11):3313–3319. 2. Tsuda T, Horio F, Osawa T. Cyanidin 3-O-b-D-glucoside suppresses nitric oxide production during zymosan treatment in rats. J Nutr Sci Vitaminol. 2002;48(4):305–310. 3. Hagiwara A, et al. Pronounced inhibition by a natural anthocyanin, purple corn color, of PhIP-associated colorectal carcinogenesis in male F344 rats. Cancer Lett. 2001;171:17–25. 4. Tsuda T, Horio F, Osawa T. Dietary cyanidin 3-O-D-glucoside increases ex vivo oxidation resistance of serum in rats. Lipids. 1998;33(6):583–588. 5. Tsuda T, et al. Dietary cyanidin 3-O-D-glucoside-rich purple corn color prevents obesity and ameliorates hyperglycemia in mice. J Nutr. 2003;133(7):2125–2130.
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What Is the Pineal Gland? Strengthening and Supporting Your Inner Eye
🌿 What is the Pineal Gland? Tucked right in the centre of the brain, behind the pituitary gland, sits one of the body's most fascinating and mysterious structures. About the size of a pea and shaped like a tiny pine cone — which is where it gets its name — the pineal gland is a small but mighty endocrine gland with a big job to do. Its best-known role is producing melatonin, the hormone that regulates your sleep-wake cycle. When darkness falls, your pineal gland gets to work, signalling to the body that it's time to rest. It also plays a role in serotonin production, influencing mood and emotional wellbeing. But for those drawn to holistic health and spiritual practice, the pineal gland holds an even deeper significance. Known across many traditions as the "third eye" or inner eye, the pineal gland is considered the seat of inner vision — our own unique perspective on the world, our intuition, and our connection to something beyond the purely physical. Ancient cultures from the Egyptians to the Hindus revered it as a gateway to higher consciousness, and mystics have long held that through meditation and mindful living, we can awaken and strengthen this inner vision. Whether you approach the pineal gland from a scientific angle, a spiritual one, or both, one thing is clear — it deserves our attention and care. 🔬 What is Pineal Gland Calcification? As we age, the pineal gland naturally accumulates calcium deposits — a process known as calcification. Research suggests this is one of the most commonly calcified structures in the human body, and it can begin surprisingly early in life. This matters because calcification is associated with reduced melatonin production, which affects not just sleep quality but also circadian rhythm — the internal body clock that governs energy levels, mood, digestion, and much more. Some researchers have also explored links between pineal calcification and conditions such as depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline, though this is still an active area of study. One factor that has attracted significant scientific interest is fluoride. The pineal gland sits outside the blood-brain barrier, which means it is more exposed to substances circulating in the bloodstream than most brain structures. Research has shown that the pineal gland accumulates higher concentrations of fluoride than any other organ in the body, and studies have found a correlation between fluoride accumulation and increased calcification. While scientists continue to explore the precise nature of this relationship, it is a finding that many in the holistic health community take seriously. Beyond fluoride, modern lifestyles expose us to a range of environmental chemicals — including heavy metals and pesticide residues — that many holistic health practitioners believe can affect the body's delicate systems over time. Supporting the body's natural detoxification pathways, eating clean and organic where possible, and being mindful of what we put in and on our bodies are all positive steps. ✨ Why Do We Want to Support the Pineal Gland? When our pineal gland is functioning well, the benefits ripple through every aspect of our health. Good melatonin production means better sleep, and better sleep means better everything — mood, immunity, cognitive function, energy, and resilience. For those who embrace a more holistic worldview, a well-supported pineal gland goes even further. Many spiritual traditions describe it as the bridge between the physical and energetic worlds — the place where our rational minds meet our intuition, where logic meets insight. Through practices like meditation, breathwork, and time in nature, many people report a deepening of their inner life and a greater sense of connection to their purpose. Whether you're drawn to the science of melatonin and sleep, or to the idea of awakening your inner vision, nourishing your pineal gland is a beautiful act of self-care. 🌱 How Can I Support and Decalcify the Pineal Gland? The good news is that nature has provided us with a wonderful array of pineal gland supplements and foods that may help support healthy pineal gland function and encourage the body's natural processes. Supporting your pineal gland health with the right nutrition is one of the most enjoyable parts of a holistic wellness routine. Here are some of our favourites: 💛 Turmeric — one of nature's most celebrated anti-inflammatory plants, turmeric supports overall brain health and is a staple of any holistic wellness routine. Shop Raw Living Peruvian Turmeric 🌊 Kelp Powder — a rich natural source of iodine, which is essential for healthy endocrine function. Shop Raw Living Kelp Powder 💪 MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) — an organic sulphur compound widely used to support detoxification pathways in the body. Shop Raw Living MSM 💧 Iodine — the pineal gland has a high concentration of iodine receptors, and adequate iodine is considered important for its healthy function. Buy here 🌿 Klamath Lake Algae — a nutrient-dense freshwater algae prized for its exceptionally rich micronutrient profile and neuroprotective properties. Shop Raw Living Klamath Lake Algae 💜 Purple Corn Extract — packed with anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants that help protect cells from oxidative stress. Shop Raw Living Purple Corn 🍫 Cacao — raw cacao is rich in magnesium and antioxidants, and has long been associated with elevated mood and heightened states of awareness. Shop Raw Living Cacao Powder 🏔️ Shilajit — a remarkable mineral-rich resin from the Himalayas, used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years to support cognitive function and vitality. Shop Raw Living Shilajit ⭐ Ormus — used by many spiritual practitioners specifically to support pineal gland activation and enhanced consciousness. Shop Raw Living Ormus Gold Alongside these wonderful foods and supplements, a few lifestyle habits can make a meaningful difference: filtering your drinking water, choosing organic produce where you can, spending time in nature away from urban pollution, and incorporating regular meditation into your routine. With so many nourishing pineal gland supplements and foods to choose from, taking care of your pineal gland health can be one of the most enjoyable parts of your wellness journey. Better sleep quality, sharper intuition, and a greater sense of connection — it all starts with this tiny but mighty gland. Exlore our full Pineal Gland Support collection here. ❓ Frequently Asked Questions Q: What does the pineal gland actually do? A: The pineal gland is a small endocrine gland in the centre of the brain, best known for producing melatonin — the hormone that regulates your sleep-wake cycle. It also plays a role in serotonin production and is considered by many traditions to be the seat of intuition and inner vision. Q: What are the symptoms of a calcified pineal gland? A: Pineal gland calcification is associated with reduced melatonin production, which can lead to difficulty sleeping, disrupted sleep patterns, low mood, fatigue, and a general sense of disconnection. It's worth noting that calcification is very common and increases naturally with age. Q: Does fluoride really affect the pineal gland? A: Research has shown that the pineal gland accumulates higher concentrations of fluoride than any other organ in the body, and studies have found a correlation between fluoride levels and increased calcification. The precise mechanisms are still being studied, but it is a topic of genuine scientific interest and one that many holistic health practitioners take seriously. Q: Can you really decalcify the pineal gland? A: While conventional medicine does not currently offer specific treatments for pineal calcification, many people in the holistic health community report positive effects from dietary and lifestyle changes aimed at supporting pineal gland health. The foods and supplements listed above are widely used for this purpose. Q: How does meditation support the pineal gland? A: Many spiritual traditions hold that meditation activates and strengthens the third eye, enhancing intuition and inner awareness. From a physiological perspective, regular meditation is known to support healthy sleep, reduce stress, and promote overall hormonal balance — all of which benefit the pineal gland's function. Q: How long does it take to notice a difference when supporting the pineal gland? A: This varies from person to person. Some people notice improvements in sleep and mood within a few weeks of dietary changes, while deeper shifts in awareness and intuition may take longer. Consistency is key — as with all aspects of holistic health, it's a journey rather than a quick fix. Please note: This article is for informational purposes only and reflects the views and experience of the Raw Living community. It is not intended as medical advice. If you have any health concerns, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.
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January Immunity
The change of seasons is always an opportunity for a reset. Equinoxes and solstices act as potent gateways to release what no longer serves us and step into the fresh new energy of the present moment. When we work with the solar and lunar cycles, we can use these portal times as appropriate occasions to do a cleanse, go on a retreat, clear out the house, take a vacation, anything that feels useful to us to mark the passing of time and release any stagnant energies lingering. However, in our all too busy lives, we often neglect to do the work - and then our bodies have to take over and do it for us! The winter solstice of Dec 21st is one of the most powerful points of the year, and the time when we need the most deep rest. Yet many of us are frantically busy: shopping, cooking, travelling to see relatives, attending gatherings. No wonder that January is known as the peak time of year for ill health. The body needs to clear out, and if you haven't been paying attention thus far, it will make sure you do! Our top recommendation for January immunity is to follow a cleansing protocol in the preceding September and December; something to keep in mind for this year, perhaps? But if you're feeling the worse for wear this month, check out our Immunity section here for some of our top recommendations for supporting your body in getting you through the seasonal release. Kate is a qualified functional nutrionist who has helped hundreds of clients. To book a consult, click here.
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Bali VIP Activation Retreat 2023
We are currently taking bookings for 121 retreats in Bali for Nov 23-Feb 24. This is a personalised experience, tailored to your unique needs. What is an activation? It means a remembrance of who you are on a deep soul level . A reconnection with the purity of your souls essence . A refocus towards your precious souls mission here on earth at this incredible time. We do the activation through a combination of modalities : discussion , yoga, reiki, raw foods, being in the portal space of Ubud, and Kate's energy as being a frequency to align to. It’s a potent combination ! If this sounds exciting to you, we invite you to book a 121 activation for winter 2023/2024. Here is the testimonial of our first activation guest, Lisa Chan. My heart is filled with overwhelming joy, love and deep gratitude for the 1-2-1 Bali activation experience with Kate. As soon as I felt the call to sign up, I knew it was the right decision and one of the best investments I could ever make for my soul. It was a big almighty yes and I am so glad I listened to the deep call to go to Bali. The experience from being at the magic villa and working with Kate was truly magical and will stay with me forever. It takes courage to say yes and do the inner work. I was able to do this in a safe space and container which Kate created for my stay with her, where my nervous system was finally able to rest and relax and I was able to exhale. I could feel the love as soon as I arrived at the magic villa and surrounding land. The energy was so powerful and transformative, I felt activated as soon as I arrived, before even starting my retreat. I felt very welcomed and was so touched at the beautiful room Kate had prepared for me with beautiful fresh flowers, charged crystals and Balinese furnishings made with care and love. The beauty of the VIP experience is you get to tailor it to what you want. It gives you an opportunity to set your desires, intentions and really personalise your experience. I loved the combination of yoga, reiki, meditation, coaching and raw foods. Plus part of the activation can be done in the wonderful backdrop of Bali if you desire. Absolute paradise! What is also so beautiful and unique about the whole VIP experience is you get to work with the energy and flow of the day and can change your itinerary if needed to support your needs. As someone who is not even vegetarian, let alone raw, I was absolutely converted to raw vegan foods thanks to Kate. Kate made delicious nutritious raw vegan foods and drinks every day which were deeply nourishing and exactly what I needed to help me on my healing journey. The food was really out of this world and transformative in itself. I felt hydrated at a deep cellular level. One of the many reasons I love working with Kate is her ability to hold space and really listen not to just your words but what's in your heart. Kate provides a space of love, compassion and non-judgement that makes you feel so safe, held and supported to be able to do the deep inner work to release trauma, old beliefs, patterns and old timelines. Kate provides encouragement, healing and guidance for you to step confidently into your new timeline, to feel empowered and come back to the remembrance of who you really are. I highly recommend the VIP retreat if you desire a change or upgrade in your life. Learn more here. We are also taking bookings for the Magic Villa for March-Nov 2023. It is a beautiful space, with all the little thoughtful touches that you might look for and not always find when travelling: a raw food kitchen equipped with high-power blender, dehydrator, milk bag, and spiraliser; a space to do yoga, incense and incense holders; eco soaps and cleaning materials; even a hook to hang your enema bag from! Ubud itself is a raw vegan mecca, with an abundance of fresh tropical fruits, juice bars, kombucha brands, raw chocolate, and gourmet restaurants. If this sounds like paradise to you, get in touch, we can help with all aspects of arranging your booking, including airport transfers. Learn more here.
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Phoenix by SuperTonic Herbs - Supporting Women Over 50
My mother went through menopause when I was 10 years old. Watching her struggle, I sought to find out why she experienced this difficult ordeal. That began my path as a health practitioner, and ultimately led to the creation of products -- one of which I'd like to talk about today - Phoenix. Now, I know my mother’s symptoms were intensified by severe stress. Menopause, and andropause in men, causes changes in hormone balance. For both sexes, the drive to reproduce abates, ideally freeing us to refocus from our nuclear family to the larger human community. But, while men are hardwired to respond to acute stresses, women are not… Women need to feel safe. When women are under constant stress and anxiety, the primary female hormone, progesterone, is cross-synthesized into androgens. At menopause, percentages of progesterone and estrogen reduce in relation to androgen hormones. During this life-stage, women are best suited to be our leaders. But progesterone depletion causes imbalances in estrogen, and can affect women’s energy. In a more evolved future, mid-life women will best represent our communities and run our politics, and I can state with certainty that we would have a much better, more compassionate, healthier society, with equality for all, and we would take better care of our planet. Phoenix is my formula to support women at mid-life and beyond. There are four primary concerns during and after menopause. STRESS: Consistent stress can deplete Progesterone, the primary female reproductive hormone responsible for all estrogen synthesis. This can cause hormonal imbalances, and symptoms including hot flashes. HORMONE SUPPORT: Mid-life women can rely on certain nutritives, primarily diosgenins, found in yams and many other foods, to assist regulation of the primary female hormones. BONE/TENDON/LIGAMENT: Bone density requires adequate progesterone to support osteoclasts. At menopause, progesterone synthesis is reduced, which can affect bone density. PHYSICAL AND SPIRITUAL STAMINA: Like all of us, mid-life women can benefit from herbs and nutratives that help support lasting energy and spiritual fortitude. Phoenix contains four primary herbs, used by women the world over for millennia, to help support balance during the shift and beyond. Dioscorea is a wild yam, high in Diosgenins; precursors to progesterone. Eucommia Bark is the top bone/tendon/ligament herb in Asian herbal medicines. Reishi mushroom offers emotional and spiritual fortitude. Ho sho wu, Morinda, and Rehmannia are herbs said to tonify the kidneys. And so, I am thrilled to offer this super-sophisticated formula to help support the needs of an under-represented and under-respected demographic of our society. Phoenix is safe and beneficial for all women from approx. age 40 and over.
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Gift Guide
What to get for that super person in your life? We have a great selection of incense, essential oils, bath treats, massage oils, candles, herbal teas, chocolate treats and more. Pack it all up in one of our organic cotton tote bags! Or if the thought of dealing with the UK postal service is too much for you, there's always gift vouchers in £10, £20 or £50 denominations. Happy Shopping! Raw Living Gift Guide
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Spotlight on Golden Berries
By Kate Magic I recently had the privilege of visiting the factory in Peru where our golden berries are processed, and learning more about this wonderful fruit. Golden berries grow all across the world and are known by lots of different names: Physalis, Chinese gooseberries, Cape gooseberries, Incan berries and Golden berries. They are native to South America, but also grow in Asia. They are tart little balls, a little smaller than cherry tomatoes, which explode with juiciness in your mouth, encased in a delicate paper shell that makes it seem that they were packaged up by the fairies, just for you. Often, when I eat fruits like these and raspberries, I marvel at how incredible it is that mother nature has created them to be the most perfect candies for us. I was eating a lot of them in Peru, it's easy to find them and they are so fresh and tangy. When we get them in the UK, they are usually a bit old, so I took advantage of being where they grew, and enjoyed them for breakfast frequently. But of course, they are not just delicious, but fall into the category of super fruits for their high nutrient profile. They are high in antioxidants and rich in Vit. C (1 cup fresh berries contains 15mg). Like goji berries, they are a good source of beta-carotene. They are also known for their bioflavinoid content, which acts as an anti-inflammatory. In the factory, I watched the workers remove the paper husks from the fruits at lightening speed; each worker can process around 20kg berries per hour. I was also pleased to learn that the husks are composted, and then the compost is returned to the farmers, to minimise wastage. Once they have been prepared and inspected, they are sent off to the industrial dryers, where they are dried at low temperatures in order to preserve nutrients. I love to snack on a small handful of golden berries. They pair particularly well with cacao, and often when I am making my raw chocolate creations, I stir some into the chocolate. There's an awesome raw chocolate cake recipe in my Magic Kitchen book called Inca Redible Cake! There's also a Golden Salsa recipe there as well. Buy Raw Living Peruvian Golden Berries here.
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Raw Living Loose Leaf Herbal Tonic Teas
Being British, we’re the biggest fans of a good old cup of tea! That’s why you’ll find seven varieties of loose leaf herbal tea in our Raw Living range. We’ve been blending these teas for well over a decade. Ever since we first discovered the wonders of adaptogenic herbs like Reishi and Ashwagandha, we’ve loved including them in our daily routines in the way they were traditionally enjoyed; brewed as a nourishing tea. When we think of herbal tea in the West, we tend to picture those pale, flavourless blends in bleached teabags, with “natural flavouring” added back in. Most mass-produced brands are made from the dust of the herbs: the leftover particles that break off during harvest and processing. The teabags themselves are often treated with chlorine, sometimes contain polypropylene (a type of plastic), and can’t be easily composted or recycled. For good reason, loose leaf teas are having a renaissance, and unlike some of the more questionable health trends that come and go, this is one we can fully get behind. If you love your herbs and want to experience their full benefits, making a tonic tea ritual part of your self-care routine is the perfect place to start. Our herbal teas are crafted with whole leaves and flowers, preserving their natural oils and life-force. You can actually see the beauty of what you’re brewing: the delicate petals, the dense roots, and the vibrant leaves. The colour, texture, and vitality are visually stunning in a way a teabag could never match. Each cup offers a richer, more complex flavour, and you can enjoy multiple infusions from every serving, making them far better value for money than standard teabags. Brewing your tea becomes an invitation to slow down, to connect with the plants, with nature, and with yourself. That quiet ritual is part of the nourishment you receive. New in! These Stainless Steel Tea Ball Infusers and Organic Cotton Reusable Tea Bags are here to make brewing even easier. We love to prepare a big 2-litre pot of tea to sip and share throughout the day. Any leftovers go straight into bottles and into the fridge for a refreshing iced tea alternative. But sometimes, you just want a quick cuppa, and that’s where the balls and bags come in handy. Try them out and let us know what you think! Check out the full range of Raw Living Herbal Teas here. Why not pair it with one of our stylish mugs?
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