Choclicious Chocolate Valentines Day Gifts
February 11th 2010 08:20
Chocolate is derived from the seeds of the Cacao tree, (pronounced Ka-kow), native to Central and South America. The bitter tasting seeds are fermented, dried and roasted to produce cacao ‘nibs’. Cocoa (Ko-ko) powder is made by grinding, crushing and pressing the ‘nibs’ to remove the oil, or cocoa butter. Manufacturers add sugar, vanilla, milk and extra cocoa butter to make milk chocolate.
There is also a café at the Pacific Fair store, serving all day breakfasts, Devonshire tea, toasted sandwiches and, of course, chocolate. Belgian chocolate fondue served with fresh fruit, fluffy pancakes with ice cream and Belgian chocolate and the gourmet mixed platters are some of the highlights. Beverages include creamy hot chocolate, mocha coffee and Chocolicious’ famous frozen flings; a blend of ice cream, real chocolate and whipped cream topped with chocolate shavings.
For the more adventurous, Choclicious stock sexy chocolate body paints, or the ‘sin tin’ containing all the rude bits made of chocolate. In tribute to the Kama Sutra there is a gift box featuring intricate chocolate sculptures inspired by the graphic depictions in that ancient text.
Clinical psychologist Dr Steve Carter PhD said that several components in chocolate have been linked to potential aphrodisiac effects. Phenyl-ethylamine (PEA) increases dopamine levels in the brain, stimulating the pleasure centers.
Secondly, tryptophan is used by the brain to make serotonin, which can produce feelings of elation.
“The street drug Ecstasy works by increasing serotonin levels and tryptophan in chocolate may induce similar feelings,” Dr Carter said.
“Thirdly there is anandamide, which binds to cannabinoid receptors in the brain, mimicking the effects of cannabinoid drugs, such as heightened sensitivity and euphoria,” he said.
“PEA and Andandamine may interact with each other, and the stimulants caffeine and theobromine found in chocolate. The overall effect may be romantic or sexually stimulating.”
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