Rest, Restore, Revitalize with Ric Scalzo of Kokora
In this conversation, Ric Scalzo, founder of Kokora, shares his journey into the world of regenerative agriculture and herbal medicine. He discusses the healing power of herbs, the principles of rest, restore, and revitalize, and the importance of living in harmony with nature. Ric emphasizes the connection between soil health and human immunity, and how Kokora aims to demonstrate the benefits of regenerative practices through its products. The conversation also touches on the future of Kokora, the role of the Ric Scalzo Institute for Botanical Research at Sonoran University in advancing herbal research, and the importance of kindness and compassion in creating a better world.
Takeaways:
Ric Scalzo is the founder of Kokora, a brand focused on herbal remedies and regenerative living.
Kokora grows its herbs using regenerative organic practices on their farm in Costa Rica.
The healing power of herbs is rooted in nature's wisdom.
Rest, restore, and revitalize are key principles of regenerative living.
Ric's journey into herbal medicine began through meditation.
Observing nature's wisdom is essential for learning and growth.
Kokora aims to demonstrate the benefits of regenerative agriculture and lifestyle.
Nutrient density and yields of herbs are significantly increased through regenerative practices.
The connection between soil health and human immunity is crucial.
Living in harmony with nature's cycles is vital for well-being.
Chapters
03:00 - Introduction to Kokora and Ric Scalzo
04:17 - The Journey to Herbal Medicine
07:56 - Understanding Nature's Wisdom
11:33 - The Principles of Regenerative Healing
14:26 - The Birth of Kokora
17:08 - Research and Nutrient Density in Plants
21:12 - The Impact of Regenerative Agriculture
23:33 - Restoring Immunity through Regenerative Practices
25:59 - The Importance of Rest in Daily Life
29:46 - Aligning with Nature's Rhythms
31:21 - Introducing Kokora: A New Brand
32:01 - The Future of Kokora's Product Line
36:05 - Innovative Research and Development
39:58 - The Role of the Institute
42:40 - Where to Find Kokora Products
44:02 - Lessons from a Long Career
47:26 - Favorite Functional Foods and Recipes
51:22 - Recommendations for Future Guests
52:35 - Envisioning a Better World
Sound Bites
"in naturopathic school I learned that there were three principles of healing: rest, restore, and revitalize.”
"I trust and value that nature's wisdom is the highest form of wisdom."
"I spent the last three years looking at traveling to these centenarian zones, these blue zones, trying to understand why these people live long and healthy lives."
"You have to serve your purpose and show up in a way that really is committed to that every day.”
"If we can transform the microbiome of the soil, we can get more nutrient-dense food and medicine, we can sequester carbon, we can clean up our waters, and we can really make a very broad impact the Earth."
"We grow all our herbs that feed into our products through a regenerative organic practice.”
“When you talk about regenerative agriculture and restoring the immunity, it has its foundation in restoring the biodiversity of our gut."
"Observing nature's wisdom is essential for learning."
“The more we can learn from nature and live in harmony with its cycles, the better off we'll be."
