For example, I may prescribe magnesium to a patient. In the United States, the most bio-available form is magnesium aspartate, and in Canada, it's magnesium citrate. Many patients get confused because they look at the label and while it does contain magnesium, it's magnesium stearate, which only acts as a binder and preservative. Stearate does not improve the absorption of magnesium, and might even interfere with the absorption of the real magnesium. This kind of information on the label is very important to understand.
Some companies claim to be organic and grow their herbs without pesticides.
However, the only state or province where the rules governing organics are very strict is California. If California organic rules are not met, you really do not know what you are getting. That's interesting considering the number of organic products on the market. Eventually, regulation will be introduced to North America. As it stands, however, a manufacturer may claim to be GMO -free and you must believe the manufacturer.