Wild plants vs. cultivated plants: why it's changing in cosmetics
On The Wild Side
In organic cosmetics, a wild plant harvested from its ecosystem does not have the same active profile as a plant cultivated in monoculture. At On The Wild Side, this choice structures the entire brand and is embodied in the Patented Wild Plant Complex.
In cosmetics, the word "natural" is everywhere. However, a plant cultivated in monoculture and a wild plant harvested from its ecosystem do not have the same active profile or the same history. At On The Wild Side, this choice is at the heart of our vision.
Our Patented Wild Plant Complex — birch sap and beech bud — accompanies targeted active ingredients in most of our facial skincare products.
Wild vs. Cultivated Plants: What Really Changes
A cultivated plant is selected for its productivity and regularity. In cosmetics, this standardization can reduce the diversity of active molecules present in the final extract.
A wild plant grows in real climatic conditions: soil, light, water stress, interactions with other species. These constraints often promote richer phytochemical profiles.
- Molecular Diversity — environmental stress = more active compounds (polyphenols, flavonoids).
- Traceability — harvesting supervised by the AFC (French Harvesters Association).
- Formulation — a rich extract must be integrated into a clinically tested formula.
The Patented Complex: Birch Sap and Beech Bud
The common thread in many OTWS skincare products, present from Treatment Oil to Anti-Imperfection Serum.
Comparative Table: Wild vs. Cultivated
| Criterion | Cultivated Plant | Wild Plant |
|---|---|---|
| Phytochemical Profile | Standardized | Rich, variable depending on the ecosystem |
| Sourcing | Easy, scalable | Seasonal, regulated (AFC) |
| OTWS Usage | Complementary active ingredients | Heart of the Patented Complex |
Why This Choice Matters for Your Skin
- Effectiveness — clinical tests on flagship products (-14% of fine lines in 21 days with the Eye Balm).
- Naturalness — 100% natural origin, Ecocert organic certified, vegan.
- Transparency — demanding formulation charter, accessible to everyone.
and -7% of dark circles in 21 days with the Smoothing and Anti-Dark Circle Eye Balm.
Tested under dermatological control, 21 days, 20 subjects.Why On The Wild Side Focuses on Wild Harvesting
Founded by Anne-Sophie Nardy (formerly L'Oréal), OTWS combines formulation expertise and B Corp commitment. Wild harvesting is supervised by clinical and transcriptomic tests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are wild plants more effective than cultivated ones?
Not systematically — it all depends on the species, the formulation process, and the tests carried out. At OTWS, wild harvesting is chosen when it provides a relevant active profile.
Is On The Wild Side organic certified?
Yes. Our formulas are 100% natural origin, Ecocert organic certified, and vegan.
What is the Patented Complex?
It is an exclusive complex based on birch sap and beech bud. Learn more on The Patent page.
Is wild harvesting sustainable?
Yes. OTWS works with the AFC to ensure responsible harvesting that respects ecosystems.
Patented wild plants, 100% natural formulas, clinically tested.
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