Hello Sweet December! Did you know dark chocolate is celebrated not only for its rich flavor but also its multiple health perks?  When paired with herbs and spices, these choco-combos can be tasty and healthful thanks to the good-for-you properties of dark chocolate.

Yes, dark chocolate known as Mother Nature’s “food of the gods” containing at least 70% cacao (I’ve adapted to 72%) is healthy because it retains more of the good compounds found in cocoa beans compared to lower percentages in milk or white chocolates. It is rich flavonoids—disease fighting antioxidants—and minerals such as iron, magnesium, and zinc which help improve heart health, boost brain function, and even stave off a bout of winter blues.

Here, take a look at six yummy pairings that are perfect for the holiday season, along with their health benefits.

1. Truffles with Peppermint: Peppermint-infused dark chocolate truffles are a festive treat. The menthol in peppermint can aid digestion and get rid of headaches. Also, dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants, which may improve heart health by reducing blood pressure and improving circulation.
2. Chocolate Bars with Anise: Anise has a sweet, aromatic flavor that complements dark chocolate.  Anise is touted for its anti-inflammatory properties and can help alleviate digestive issues, too. The flavonoids in dark chocolate boost brain function according to research.
3. Cocoa with Cinnamon: Cinnamon adds warmth to hot cocoa made from dark chocolate (premium powder or melted chips). The spice is known to help keep blood sugar levels on even keel and has anti-inflammatory effects. Combined with dark chocolate’s antioxidants, this pairing can be a heart-healthy beverage.
4. Chocolate Brownies with Nutmeg: Nutmeg adds warmth to fudgy brownies (homemade is best because you can control the sugar and fat ingredients). Nutmeg has been linked to better sleep due to its sedative effects, while the high cacao content in dark chocolate brownies provides mood-boosting benefits through serotonin production.
5. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries with Basil, Basil brings a fresh twist to classic dark chocolate-covered berries. Basil contains essential oils that have antibacterial properties, while strawberries (still available at our local Safeway) are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants that complement the wellness benefits of cacao.
6. Chocolate Bars with Orange Zest: Orange zest creates a refreshing holiday treat. Oranges are high in Vitamin C and flavonoids that support immune function; when combined with the antioxidants found in dark chocolate, this pairing is a wellness and tasty treat.

One more thing: In moderation, these sweet and savory pairings not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also offer good for you perks during the holiday season! (If you’d like more herbal chocolate pairings, brand names, and recipes, check out The Healing Powers of Chocolate (Cal Orey, published by Kensington).

CAL OREY, M.A., is a bestselling author-novelist specializing in topics such as adventure, health, romance, and science. She holds a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in English (Creative Writing) from San Francisco State University. Her books include the popular Healing Powers series, and Courage with Paws. (Book 2) Time Traveler Tabby, and a thrilling co-authored sci-fi series–The Ghost Ships to be released this winter.  She is a South Lake Tahoe local. Her website is http://www.calorey.com