Getty Images Humans have a long and storied history of using botanical ingredients to remedy a range of health concerns. There are many holistic remedies passed down through families from generation to generation, and most of the formulations still recommended in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Ayurveda today date back thousands of years. But botanical ingredients have never been as enthusiastically embraced by the mainstream as they are today, says Holly Johnson, Chief Science Officer, American Herbal Products Association (AHPA). “Consumers have historically used herbs to support their health and wellbeing, and the recent increase in popularity of familiar botanical ingredients such as elderberry and echinacea has paved the way for consumers to explore other botanicals, driving product innovation and accessibility.”
This growing consumer interest has sent sales soaring. Grand View Research reports that global sales for botanical ingredients will reach $281.42 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 6.9%.
Zak Benmerzouga, Business Director, AIDP, notes, “While immunity surged during the pandemic, it has transitioned into a broader emphasis on preventive wellness. We see proactive and holistic wellness as a new trend among the younger generation in several areas including immunity, beauty from within and digestive health. Finally, metabolic health has emerged as a pivotal trend in the supplements space. As drug companies target weight loss and diabetes, consumers are turning to supplements for less costly, natural solutions. Throughout these trends, organic ingredients continue to be preferred by both consumers and up-and-coming brands in the supplements and functional food space."
Another factor driving growth is a shift in perception about pharmaceutical medications, says James Roza, Chief Scientific Officer, Layn Natural Ingredients. “Wariness or dissatisfaction with prescriptive and over-the-counter medications because of cost, side effects, lack of efficacy, and concerns about long-term use, are leading many consumers to look for natural alternatives. These attitudes have been exacerbated since the pandemic, fueled by a distrust for big pharma, a do-it-yourself type attitude promoted by social media ambassadors, and a yearning to get back to a simpler, cleaner and healthier lifestyle.”
Also pointing to socials as a driving force: “Social media plays a role in […]
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