Cacao, Psychedelics & Neuroplasticity: Ancient Rituals Meet Modern Science (Christchurch)

Join Dr Corin Storkey (PhD Med Chem) for an immersive exploration of how 7,000-year-old Peruvian cacao traditions and shamanic practices intersect with cutting-edge neuroscience. Discover the sacred role of ceremonial cacao — from its origins at the ancient temple of Montegrande to its use in visionary rites — and how it influences brain chemistry, supports neuroplasticity, and facilitates emotional healing and expanded awareness.

Learn about the latest research on neurotransmitter pathways and transformational change, and experience personalised insights through Cacao Personality Maps (developed via biochemical profiling with Otago University). Explore how cacao can also support the integration of altered states and enhance Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy (PAT). This workshop bridges ancestral cosmovision with modern science, offering practical tools for deeper inner work, mental wellbeing, and conscious living.

Key Highlights:

• The Sacred Role of Cacao Explore the origins of cacao at the ancient temple of Montegrande and Chavín de Huántar, Peru — key sites of shamanic initiation dating back over 7,000 years. Shamans used cacao to connect with the divine and often combined it with San Pedro cactus to induce visionary experiences.

• Cacao & Neuroscience Understand how cacao influences brain chemistry, supports spiritual awakening, and enhances neuroplasticity. We’ll examine the latest research on neurotransmitter pathways and cacao’s remarkable capacity to facilitate transformational change and brain rewiring.

• Cacao Personality Mapping Through biochemical profiling developed in partnership with the University of Otago, experience personalised “Cacao Personality Maps” that help you tailor cacao to your unique needs — whether for healing, insight, emotional clarity, or integration.

• Launch of Shansho Ancestral Cacao – World’s First Discover the development and launch of Shansho, Seleno Health’s groundbreaking raw, unfermented ancestral cacao. Inspired by the sacred Shansho bird of Amazonian cosmovision and crafted through direct trade with Peruvian communities, Shansho retains exceptional levels of polyphenols, theobromine, PEA, and other bioactives. Learn why this novel form of cacao offers a superior vehicle for both ceremonial work and everyday neurochemical support.

• Integrating Tradition & Modern Science See how ancient practices are validated and amplified by contemporary neuroscience, and discover practical ways cacao (especially Shansho) can deepen inner work, support mental and physical health, and enhance Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy.

If you’re passionate about cacao and curious about its transformative potential, this workshop will expand your understanding and deepen your connection with this sacred plant. Whether you’re a cacao lover or a seeker on a spiritual path, this experience opens the door to healing, awakening, and lasting change.

Date: Friday 9th OCtober, 6:00 - 8.00 pm

Location: Piko Wholefoods (upstairs studio)

Tickets: Book online from $10-30 (ultra early bird - late pre-sales)

Extras: Get a FREE ceremonial cacao elixir plus - 10% off all Seleno Health products after the event.

Presenter:

Dr Corin Storkey (PhD – Med Chem) has over 20 years of academic and research experience, specialising in understanding how plant medicines interact with the brain and body. He holds a PhD in medicinal chemistry from the University of Melbourne. He has previously overcome chronic fatigue syndrome and promotes an integrative and holistic approach to managing chronic health conditions. He currently leads the New Zealand based Andean/Amazonian plant medicine research program that studies ancestral plants and substantiates their traditions through biochemical analysis.