Organic, Non-Organic – Does It Matter?

The question of whether organic products are truly better than their non-organic counterparts is more relevant than ever. As more people seek to make informed choices about the foods and supplements they consume, it’s important to understand what the term “organic” really means, and how it compares to non-organic options.

At Joseph Flach & Sons, we offer a wide range of both non-organic and organic botanical ingredients, including clivers herb, elderberries, nettle herb, nettle root, rose hips, and sea buckthorn berries. In this blog, we’ll investigate the key differences between organic and non-organic products, the benefits of each, and why it truly does matter when it comes to your health and the environment.

What Does Organic Really Mean?

The term “organic” refers to the way agricultural products are grown and processed. Organic farming practices focus on using natural substances and methods to promote soil health, biodiversity, and water conservation. Organic products, including herbs and fruits, are grown without the use of synthetic pesticides, fertilisers, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). In the UK, for a product to be certified organic, it must meet specific criteria established by regulatory bodies like the Soil Association or UK Organic Standards.

The Benefits of Organic Products

The appeal of organic products, particularly when it comes to herbs and botanicals, lies in their purity. Here’s why organic ingredients may be worth considering:

Fewer Chemicals and Pesticides – Organic products, including herbs like clivers herb and nettle root, are grown without synthetic pesticides and fertilisers. This means that when you purchase organic, you’re consuming herbs that are free from potentially harmful chemical residues, which can accumulate in the body over time. Although there are regulations in place to limit the levels of pesticides in non-organic products, organic products will contain much lower volumes.
Better for the Environment – Organic farming practices promote biodiversity, soil health, and ecological balance. They reduce pollution and preserve water quality, ensuring that the ecosystems where these plants grow remain healthy. Sea buckthorn berries and rose hips, for example, thrive in organic systems that emphasise sustainable farming techniques. By choosing organic, you’re supporting environmentally friendly practices that help protect the planet.
Rich in Nutrients – Some studies suggest that organic produce, including herbs like elderberries, can be richer in antioxidants and micronutrients. The absence of chemical fertilisers in organic farming encourages plants to develop stronger defences against pests, which may lead to a more nutrient-dense final product. The sea buckthorn berries we sell, for instance, are renowned for their high vitamin C content, and organic versions might be particularly potent.
Supports Ethical Farming – Organic farming often supports with fair trade values, ensuring farmers are treated fairly and have access to better working conditions. This is particularly true for herbs and botanicals that come from small-scale, sustainable growers who are committed to responsible practices. By choosing organic, you can support ethical farming communities.

What About Non-Organic Products?

Non-organic botanicals, such as those grown with conventional farming methods, are typically less expensive than their organic counterparts. This is because conventional farming often uses chemical pesticides, synthetic fertilisers, and more intensive farming methods that can increase yield. While non-organic herbs like nettle herb and rose hips may not offer the same environmental or health benefits as organic ones, they are still valuable for many uses.

Non-organic products also have their place in wellness, as they often undergo the same rigorous quality controls in terms of harvesting, drying, and processing. While non-organic products may carry some trace chemicals or pesticides, these are usually within safe limits established by regulatory bodies. You can read more about our in house quality control and assurances here.

Key Ingredients at Joseph Flach & Sons

At Joseph Flach & Sons, we offer both organic and non-organic varieties of some of the finest herbs and botanicals used in wellness products. We have a wide range of organic products, here are some of our top organic offerings:

Clivers Herb (Organic)

Clivers is a well-known herb in traditional herbalism, often used for detoxification and lymphatic support.