The Himalaya Drug Company has estimated a growth rate of 7-8 per cent for its Pure Herbs division, which has a set of fast moving OTC herbal products, in the first year.

The company on the occasion of its first anniversary of the Pure Herbs division indicated that that a positive and healthy growth was anticipated from the segment. Himalaya plans to strengthen its distribution and marketing efforts for Pure Herbs going by the overwhelming response for the 12 products in the category. The range covers Amalaki (anti oxidant), Arjuna (blood circulation), Ashvaganda (anti stress) Bramhi (alertness), Karela (regulates metabolism) Lasuna (cholesterol protection) Neem (skin care), Shudda guggulu (lipid regulator), Shallaki (joint pain), Tagara (relaxant), Triphala (bowel cleanser) and Tulasi (cough and cold).

One of the key reasons for the success of Pure Herbs is the well defined pharmacological activities of the individual herbs that are known for its remarkable benefits. The sources of the herbs are subjected to extreme scrutiny in terms of the cultivation process. The scientific testing and modern extraction process of the company ensured that the benefit of the herbs was consistent and without any batch-to-batch variation, according to the company.

While the global herbal healthcare market is estimated to be valued at $62 billion, the Indian sector size is pegged around Rs. 2,500-3,000 crore and growing at 15-20 per cent.