Cocoa is the plant from which chocolate is made. Cocoa is most commonly used for heart disease and high blood pressure.
Many believe that cocoa is limited to the production of chocolate, however, cocoa has got much more to offer, not only as a food treat but also as a medicine. Modern research has revealed that cocoa does indeed contain important components that can benefit our health, depending on the form in which it is taken (i.e. as an infusion, a dark chocolate bar, nibs, etc.) the benefits will vary. Furthermore, the International Cocoa Organisation has also outlined the different products that can derive from the cocoa pod, and was said to have numerous benefits.
Cocoa contains a variety of chemicals, including antioxidants called flavonoids. It is not clear how these might work in the body, but they appear to cause relaxation of veins. This could lead to lower blood pressure. These compounds might also reduce the activity of chemicals in the body that promote inflammation or blockage of blood vessels.