The global shift toward natural, plant-based healthcare has placed the herbal industry at the center of pharmaceutical and wellness innovation. India, with its rich biodiversity and traditional medical systems, plays a vital role in supplying herbal drugs and formulations to domestic and international markets. Unit 5 focuses on the structure of the herbal industry, its future prospects, major institutions involved in medicinal plant research, and the importance of Schedule T, which governs Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) for Indian systems of medicine. This article presents a comprehensive and current overview in a news-style educational format.
Download UNIT 5 – Herbal Industry in India Notes
Get simplified revision notes for this unit:
⬇️
Download Unit 5 Notes PDF
General Introduction to the Herbal Industry
Understanding the Herbal Drug Industry
The herbal drug industry involves the cultivation, processing, formulation, and marketing of medicines derived from plant sources. These products are widely used in Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, and Homeopathy (ASU) systems, as well as in nutraceuticals, cosmetics, and wellness supplements. Unlike synthetic drugs, herbal medicines emphasize holistic treatment and long-term safety, making them increasingly popular among consumers seeking natural healthcare options.
Present Scope of the Herbal Industry
India is one of the world’s largest producers of medicinal plants, supplying raw materials and finished herbal products to countries across Asia, Europe, and North America. The industry has expanded rapidly due to rising awareness of lifestyle diseases, increasing demand for immunity boosters, and global acceptance of traditional medicine. Government initiatives such as AYUSH promotion, export incentives, and research funding have further strengthened this sector.
Future Prospects and Global Opportunities
The future of the herbal industry looks promising, driven by advancements in standardization, quality control, biotechnology, and evidence-based research. With increasing integration of herbal products into modern healthcare systems, India has the potential to emerge as a global hub for validated herbal medicines. However, sustainable harvesting, regulatory compliance, and scientific validation remain critical challenges that must be addressed.
Plant-Based Industries and Institutions in India
Medicinal and Aromatic Plant-Based Industries
Plant-based industries in India include pharmaceutical companies, nutraceutical manufacturers, cosmetic producers, essential oil distillers, and herbal supplement exporters. These industries utilize medicinal and aromatic plants for products ranging from classical formulations to modern dosage forms.
Key Institutions Supporting Herbal Research
Several national institutions support research, cultivation, and standardization of medicinal plants. Prominent among them are:
Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS)
Central Council for Research in Unani Medicine (CCRUM)
Central Council for Research in Siddha (CCRS)
Central Council for Research in Homeopathy (CCRH)
National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB)
These institutions play a crucial role in validating traditional knowledge, promoting good agricultural practices, and ensuring quality standards for herbal raw materials.
Schedule T: Good Manufacturing Practices for Indian Systems of Medicine
Introduction to Schedule T
Schedule T of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act specifies Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) for ASU drugs. Its primary objective is to ensure that herbal medicines are safe, effective, and of consistent quality. Compliance with Schedule T is mandatory for manufacturers of Ayurvedic, Siddha, and Unani medicines.
Objectives of Schedule T
The main objectives of Schedule T include:
Preventing contamination and adulteration
Ensuring uniform quality of herbal formulations
Maintaining hygienic manufacturing conditions
Promoting documentation and traceability
Enhancing consumer confidence in traditional medicines
Components of GMP Under Schedule T
Infrastructural Requirements
Manufacturing units must have adequate infrastructure, including separate areas for raw material storage, processing, formulation, packaging, and finished goods storage. Proper ventilation, lighting, and drainage systems are essential to maintain hygiene and prevent cross-contamination.
Working Space and Storage Areas
Sufficient working space is required to allow orderly movement of materials and personnel. Storage areas must be well-organized, labeled, and designed to protect raw materials from moisture, pests, and environmental damage. Special provisions must exist for storing toxic or potent substances.
Machinery and Equipment
All machinery and equipment used in herbal manufacturing must be made of suitable materials that do not react with plant constituents. Equipment should be easy to clean, regularly maintained, and calibrated to ensure consistent product quality.
Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Documentation
Importance of SOPs
Standard Operating Procedures define step-by-step processes for every stage of manufacturing, from raw material handling to final packaging. SOPs ensure reproducibility, minimize errors, and support regulatory inspections.
Documentation and Record Maintenance
Schedule T emphasizes detailed documentation, including batch manufacturing records, raw material testing reports, in-process control data, and distribution records. Proper documentation ensures traceability and accountability in case of quality issues or recalls.
Health, Hygiene, and Personnel Requirements
Personnel Qualifications and Training
Manufacturers must employ qualified technical staff trained in ASU systems. Regular training programs are essential to keep personnel updated on GMP requirements, hygiene practices, and safety protocols.
Health and Hygiene Standards
Employees must follow strict personal hygiene practices. Medical examinations, protective clothing, and sanitation facilities are mandatory to prevent contamination and ensure worker safety.