Cacao

 Theobroma cacao, Linn. Natural order: Sterculiaceae. Tribe, вuettnerieae. Preparation: Trituration of the seeds (crude).

 In order to ascertain the effect of the active principles (aromatic essences and theobromin) contained in сacao upon the nervous system and its dependencies, it was necessary to separate those principles, as far as possible, from the fatty substances (Butter of сacao) of which the beans are so largely composed. With this view, we prepared a decoction of powdered сacao in boiling water, and conducted our experiments with this liquid. вy placing ourselves under the influence of a decoction highly charged with aromatic principles, and made from powdered сacao well roasted, we ascertained that this beverage produces an excitement of the nervous system similar to that caused by a strong infusion of black coffee; since these effects are insignificant if a decoction of the raw bean is employed, it is natural to attribute them to the aromatic essences which are developed in the сacao by the process of roasting. A still wider difference is observed when we compare the effects on the circulation respectively produced by a decoction of powdered сacao roasted, and one of the same substance in a crude state. In the former case, the sphygmographic tracing indicates an excited of the circulation, as shown by an accelerated pulse, with increased fulness and diminished arterial tension. When, on the other hand, an infusion of the raw bean is made use of, the action of the theobromin predominates, and an entirely different character of pulse is the result, as may be placed beyond doubt by examining the following traces, obtained from a single individual. In explaining the nutritive value of сacao, we must take into account the presence in this substance of a special alkaloid, theobromin, whose physiological effects are identical with those of caffeine and thein (as we have proved by numerous experiments), and which, retarding the organic waste in the same way as the active principles of coffee and tea, place сacao high up among les ailments d’epargne ou antideperditeurs (the conservative substances, or those which check tissue-waste).