CURRENT MARKET STATUS OF AYURVEDIC AND PROPRIETARY AYURVEDIC MEDICINES FOR WOMEN’S HEALTH: A STRATIFIED SURVEY STUDY

Abstract

Introduction: Although many of the issues around women’s health are related to reproductive system, “Health of women” is a broader, holistic and important arena with regards to public health. For thousands of years, Ayurveda, is enabling women to combat these issues effectively, safely. Aim: Survey was conducted to assess current market status of Ayurvedic and proprietary Ayurvedic medicines, Neutraceuticals enriched with Ayurveda drugs, Ayurveda Ahara, traditional Ayurveda medicines for Women’s health. Methods: Stratified survey including online survey of GMP approved Ayurvedic pharmaceutical units, Ayurvedic medications and above-mentioned products in market was done using search engines like Google, government websites, websites of selected Ayurveda pharmaceutical companies, online marketing websites, online medicines vendors, through predetermined search terms, phrases. Physical market survey was also done from local Ayurvedic medical stores, Ayurveda raw drug suppliers in Jamnagar vicinity, Gujarat, India. Products were scrutinised on aspects such as preventive and curative, classical and proprietary medications along with OTC and prescription drugs, dosage forms etc. Results and discussion: With atleast 10 top most GMP certified companies producing classical and more than 150 proprietary Ayurvedic products in the market, it can be claimed that women’s health is providing a strong base for the Ayurvedic market to grow with the current trends. Patient compliance affects market size hence must be taken care of.  Being a fast-moving area, focus is need to be given over stringent rules and regulations for formulations to confirm safety for certain medicines and other consumables. Conclusion: Ayurvedic and proprietary Ayurvedic medicines have significant Indian market share and scope in Woman health sector.