The Bangalore-based Himalaya Drug is planning a major thrust for its pure herbs products.

Talking to ET, Mr. Ravi Prasad, President and CEO of the company said, "It's a year since we launched pure herbs and we are expanding our distribution and marketing network to strengthen this segment".

The pure herbs range is classified as over-the-counter (OTC) products and so far has contributed 7-8% to Himalaya's topline. "Growth potential for herbal healthcare segment in India is 15-20% per annum. We are positive and anticipate a healthy growth for our OTC healthcare segment for this year," he said.

The global market for herbal healthcare is estimated at $62 billion. And the Indian market size is between Rs.2,500-3,000 crore clubbed with herbal health and personal care market.

To meet its herbs requirements, the company has set up dedicated farms in and around Bangalore and in north India.

The company after restructuring created a new division Himalaya Pure Herbs in its fold, addressing specific health problems and maintaining wellness of the body.

So far, the company has come out with 12 products like Amalaki (an anti-oxidant), Arjuna (for blood circulation), Ashvagandha (anti stress), Brahmi (alertness), Karela (regulates metabolism), Lasuna (Cholesterol protection), Neem (skin care), Shuddha Guggulu (lipid regulator), Shallaki (joint pain), Tagara (relaxant), Triphala (bowel cleanser) and Tulasi (cough and cold).

Talking about the global trend, Mr. Prasad said going back to nature is a truism that has caught on the world over during the last decade. Science and medicine have today advanced to a level where nature can be appreciated rather than discounted.

"Currently, there is a renaissance occurring with herbal healthcare coming up as an alternative for monopolistic conventional synthetic products," he added.

High-pressure, lifestyles, cramped living conditions, lesser open spaces and an acute consciousness for healthy and better living has created a need for instant natural remedies or herbal supplements, that can be consumed without prescription.

The Rs.250 crore Himalaya Drug Company is now aiming for the Rs.500 crore turnover mark by 2007.