What is Caffeine?

Caffeine is found in a variety of plants, including the leaves of the tea bush and the beans of the coffee and cocoa plants. In the small amounts found in tea, coffee, colas, and some medicines such as cold and flu remedies, it speeds up the heart rate and blood circulation and does no harm to most people. However, in larger doses, its stimulant effect can cause nervousness, loss of concentration and insomnia (inability to sleep), which is why people who drink a lots of coffee or tea are advised to cut down. The purified chemical is colourless and odourless, and has a slightly bitter taste. As well as some over-the-counter remedies, it is also used in some treatments for heart and nerve disorders.

Cocao and Choco

Cocoa pods are large and heavy. They grow on the trunk of the cacao tree or on its branches. The beans supply not only chocolate and cacoa, but also cocoa butter, which is used in sweets and medicines.