Kaylee Cole, a distinguished herbalist and aspiring ethnobotanist, is preparing for an exciting journey to Kumano, Japan, this fall!
Kaylee has a rich background that includes multiple roles in the lifecycle of a small farm at Sleeping Frog Farms in Arizona. She has also served as a language analyst in the U.S. Air Force, and is currently the Operations Director at Apiary Beverage Company in Southern California, where she oversees the fermentation of beverages made from honey and botanical ingredients. She brings a unique blend of skills and experiences to this, her latest research endeavor. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Herbal Science from Bastyr University in Washington State and is a certified practitioner in regenerative development from the Regenesis Group in Santa Fe, New Mexico.Kaylee is particularly interested in exploring the relationship between Kumano's indigenous plants and their spiritual and mythological connections, as well as the ancient and emerging technologies for fostering a deeper sense of belonging and stewardship of the land. Her passion lies in connecting people to place, bridging her herbal science background with the unique ecological and cultural tapestry of Kumano, an area renowned for its satoyama landscapes and rich spiritual history.
Kaylee's upcoming research trip will focus on two main areas of interest: the connection of medicinal plants to “place” and mythological narratives, and the unique agroforestry and satoyama systems that define the Kumano region. During her visit, Kaylee plans to collaborate with local experts and communities, exploring how these two domains—medicinal plant mythology and agroforestry—interconnect, fostering a deeper understanding of cultural, mythological, and ecological connections.
Kaylee is seeking like-minded collaborators who share her passion for herbal science, regenerative development, and Japanese cultural studies. If you are interested in joining her on this enriching journey or contributing to her research and explorations in Kumano, please start the conversation by emailing connect@kumano.life. This is a unique opportunity to engage with an international expert in herbal medicine and regenerative agriculture while exploring Kumano's vibrant heritage, contributing to a meaningful cross-cultural exchange.
Join Kaylee in discovering the deep roots of Kumano and be part of a transformative experience that blends ecology, culture, and mythology!
Contact Information:
For collaboration inquiries or to learn more about Kaylee's upcoming visit, please reach out via connect@kumano.life.