Theobromine

        Today’s topic, one that everybody likes: chocolate.

        Ok, to be franc, this post is not truly about chocolate but about Theobromine. I decided to research this specific compound because not long ago, I read in a magazine that coffee and caffeine aren’t really the best metabolism boosting nutrient you can take in, so I stated looking for alternatives. And voila! Her we go, a new source: Theobromine.

         It is a compound closely related to caffeine but with a milder stimulatory effect on the nervous system and comes with diuretic and relaxing effects.  It is said to be one of the chemicals that cause the soothing effect of chocolate. It can lower blood pressure and relax the bronchi muscles giving it perfect characteristics to be used as natural medicine against stress or colds and even asthma and it is even used in modern medicine as a vasodilator and hart stimulant. It is also used in b

          Beware though; it can be toxic if too much is digested and poisonous to some domestic animals, like dogs or horses.

          It has a formula of C₇H₈ N₄O₂ and is an alkaloid. It is mostly fund in the cocoa beans and consequently in chocolate, especially in darker exemplars. It can also be found in tea and some nuts.

          This is just another example to show that chemistry is truly everywhere!