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Cocoa and the taste of beauty		  
The Cacao tree originated in the foothills of the Andes in the Amazon and Orinoco basins of South America. It was introduced into Central America by the ancient Mayas, and cultivated in Mexico by the Toltecs and later by the Aztecs. Cacao trees grow in a very limited geographical zone, of approximately 10 degrees to the north and south of the Equator. Nearly 70% of the world crop is grown in West Africa.

Cocoa was an important commodity in Pre-Columbian Mesoamerica. Spanish chroniclers of the conquest of Mexico by Hernán Cortés relate that when Montezuma II, emperor of the Aztecs, dined he took no other beverage than chocolate, served in a golden goblet and eaten with a golden spoon. Flavored with vanilla and spices, his chocolate was whipped into a froth that dissolved in the mouth. No fewer than 50 pitchers of it were prepared for the emperor each day, and 2000 more for nobles of his court.

Chocolate was introduced to Europe by the Spaniards and became a popular beverage by the mid 1500s. They also introduced the cacao tree into the West Indies and the Philippines. It was used in alchemical processes, where it was known as Black Bean. The cacao plant was first given its name by Swedish natural scientist Carl von Linné (1707-1778), who called it "Theobroma cacao" or "food of the gods".

Cocoa butter is derived from cacao beans: fruit of the cacao tree. Cocoa butter is a stable fat whose natural antioxidants are good for the skin. The moisturizing abilities of cocoa butter are frequently recommended for prevention of stretch marks in pregnant women, treatment of chapped skin and lips, and as a daily moisturizer to prevent dry, itchy skin. It does however, promote elasticity in the skin and will aid in the healing of chapped skin if it is used regularly. Cocoa Butter contains a kaleidoscope of vitamins, minerals and natural mood-boosters.

Sensation Chocolat Paris chose to use Cocoa butter in exclusive formulas where its benefits are at their best. It nourishes, hydrates*, protects. It brings magnesium, iron, A, B1, B2, D & E vitamins. It's rich in antioxydant polyphenols and astringent tannins and actives. The theobromine of cacao has a thermogenetic activity, it redensifies the skin. Finally, its phytosterols have anti-age virtues.