What distinguishes botanical pesticides from synthetic pesticides?

Botanical pesticides are distinguished from synthetic pesticides primarily because they are derived from natural plant products. This means they originate from plants that have insecticidal properties, such as extracts from neem, pyrethrum, or other plant sources. The natural origin of botanical pesticides tends to align with organic farming practices and may appeal to consumers who prefer products made from renewable resources.

The notion that they are always more effective isn't accurate, as effectiveness can vary widely based on the specific pest and application conditions. In fact, some synthetic pesticides may have stronger and more consistent efficacy than their botanical counterparts. While producing botanical pesticides can sometimes be less expensive, this is not a universal truth, as the production costs can vary based on the extraction processes and the plant sources used. Finally, although botanical pesticides may have a better safety profile, they usually do not require more stringent regulations than synthetic pesticides; in many cases, they can actually be subject to fewer restrictions due to their natural status.