Global Plant Exploration
Global Plant Exploration Program concept
The Global Plant Exploration program is led by Chris Kilham (ethnobotanist) – also known as Medicine Hunter – and Nébil Bourguiba, Sourcing Manager at Groupe Berkem. Together, they focus on sourcing plants directly by forging relationships with local communities around the world. Several countries have been explored, for plant or living matter harvesting :
- France for maritime pine bark, grape seeds, hops…
- Peru for the study of maca
- Vietnam for green coffee exploration
- Norway for herring roe sustainable MSC fisheries (Marine Stewardship Council).
These explorations help ensure product quality while supporting local communities and ecosystems. Involving communities and respecting local agriculture and sensible harvesting practices is fundamental to the Group’s philosophy. Highly focused on the “field”, this program allows transparency in quality control and traceability through compliance with rigorous standards, from harvest to product.
About Chris Kilham
Chris Kilham has extensive experience in the study of medicinal plants and botanical ingredients. Known as the Medicine Hunter, a title earned through his many expeditions around the world in search of plants with health-promoting properties, he brings deep expertise to the Global Plant Exploration program. His participation is rooted in his thorough understanding of plants, local dynamics, sustainability requirements, and ethical harvesting practices. As an ethnobotanist (Medicine Hunter), author, educator, and researcher in herbal medicine, Chris Kilham is a leading figure in the field of phytotherapy and applied botany.
In 2025, Chris Kilham received the prestigious ABC Champion Award, presented by the American Botanical Council. This award recognizes his long-standing commitment to the global exploration of medicinal plants and his contribution to scientific research, education, and the promotion of botanical knowledge.
The full article is available here.
