In general use, herbs are plants with savory or aromatic properties that are used for flavoring and garnishing food, medicinal purposes, or for fragrances; excluding vegetables and other plants consumed for macronutrients. Culinary use typically distinguishes herbs from spices. Herbs generally refers to the leafy green or flowering parts of a plant (either fresh or dried), while spices are usually dried and produced from other parts of the plant, including seeds, bark, roots and fruits.
Herbs have long been revered for both their medicinal and culinary value. They may cure colds, help you sleep and add flavor and zest to dinner. Fortunately for home gardeners, growing herbs is relatively easy. They thrive in just about any type of soil, do not require much fertilizer, and are not often bothered by insect or disease pests.
Nowadays, a demanding work culture and busy lifestyles have forced consumers to opt for ready-to-eat meals or other ready-to-eat food items. Dried herbs allow customers to enjoy tasty and flavorful foods that consume less time for preparation. The increasing demand for processed foods such as snacks, pickles, beverages, and others has resulted in the rising demand for dried herbs that are used to enhance the flavor of these products.
Dried herbs are readily available through various retail formats. This ease of access drives consumers toward using dried herbs even more. Dried herbs are small and easy to carry; the use of convenience packaging for dried herbs is also known to increase the demand among consumers. Consumers also are becoming readily open to international cuisines, flavors, and ingredients, which is influencing their eating habits in a big way. The strong influence from various cuisines and cultures is also resulting in the growth of the exotic dried herbs sector.
Global Herbal Medicine Market
Asia Pacific countries such as China followed by India accounts for the maximum market share due to its tradition of using the herbal system. Europe is the second largest market due to large disposable income and growing demand for natural therapies and remedies. The European market will be led by France followed by Germany. Asia pacific region will be the fastest region because of which will be led by China and India. The Middle East and Africa market will be led by the gulf nations particularly Saudi Arabia and UAE. The poor regions of Africa is expected to be a laggard due to poor economic and political conditions.
Global Herbal Medicine Market – Key Players:
Himalaya Drug Company (India), Schwabe (Germany), Madaus (Spain), Arkopharman (France), Blackmores (Australia), Tsumura (Japan), Sheng Chang Pharmaceutical Company (Taiwan), Ricola AG (Switzerland), Zandu Pharmaceutical Works Ltd (India), Hamdard laboratories (India), Dabur (India), Patanjali Ayurved Ltd (India) China Herbs Company (U.S.), Nutraceutical International Corporation (U.S.), are some of the prominent players.
