I am a New Yorker of Mediterranean descent, convinced my herbal sorcery stems from my ancestry. I endured two major surgeries before the age of 8, leaving my inner spirit scarred and scared. My father taught me the magnetism of positivity. He lived with a progressive disease, NEVER complained, and believed in self-reliant healing. He encouraged my tenacious pursuit of herbs, yoga, gardening, acupressure, craniosacral therapy, and Reiki.

In 1993, after achieving a BS in Marketing from SDSU, I chose to visit communes, soak in hot springs and hug trees. I faced a stubborn streptococcus skin infection which was successfully treated with a tincture of echinacea and goldenseal. No antibiotics necessary! I worked at a herb and flower nursery and ultimately pioneered the development of a community organic farm in Oregon.

I discovered MY magic after an impassioned herbalist introduced me to the world of herbs in nature. After receiving remarkable feedback on my first wildcrafted salve, I recognized my purpose was to help people heal through alchemy and sharing my knowledge of alternative health.

Gypsy travels, sunshine and beaches took me to Maui. Upon arrival, I was gifted a copy of Planetary Herbology and was told it was my new Bible. I cherish this book! I worked in natural food stores as an herbal consultant and purchasing director. I am partial to the powerful formulas of Planetary Herbals.

In 1996, I launched Kaleidoscope Naturals. My entrepreneurial spirit and diligence led me on a journey of producing high quality potions. Organic Hemp and Herbal Healing Salve continues to be mycompany’s best seller with loyal customers worldwide.

Since 2009 I have been establishing perennial gardens in Mendocino. There are currently at least 50 medicinal herbs on our property. In 2012, I completed a 500-hour yoga training and this year will finish introductory tai ji tuina and an apprenticeship at our community acupuncture clinic. I am also creating an innovative business plan integrating my talents of organic gardening, planetary herbalism and yoga.

I enrolled in East West in 2010 and will attend my third seminar in April. Upon completion of my coursework, I will attain my Professional Herbalist certificate. The course is comprehensive, supportive and fascinating. Thank you Michael, Lesley and East West for sharing! I am eternally grateful!