Botany for Herbalists

About the Author

Holly Poole-Kavana is a Washington, D.C.-based herbalist, botanist, and educator who grew up in the Hudson Valley and the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. She earned a B.S. in botany from Cornell University and had the privilege of studying with a series of experienced herbalists. Herbalism has helped her find work that aligns with her values regarding community autonomy, accessible healthcare, consent, and connection. Along the way, she was challenged to examine the limited lens through which her botany training taught her to understand plants. Holly has been operating a sliding scale clinic, growing herbs to supply her apothecary, and teaching people of all ages about botany, herbalism, and foraging since 2011. She also works as a midwife's assistant and doula.