HEARBAL INNOVATIVE PRODUCTS

According to the World Health Organization', 80% of
people in developing countries rely on traditional herbal
medicines. Herbal and other 'alternative' treatments are
also popular in the developed world, being used by about
50% of Australians2 and 33% of Americans3. In the UK the
shelves of high street pharmacies, supermarkets and health
food shops clearly illustrate the growth in the herbals
market, with ever wider ranges of products on display. A
Consumers' Association Survey indicated that in 2005 more
than £60 million was spent on over-the-counter alternative
medicines in the UK. In 2007 the European herbal medicine
market was worth over £1.8 billion at retail selling prices4.
Although the UK market is at present smaller than that of
Germany (in 1994 it was £88 million, compared with
£1400 million) it has one of the highest forecast growth
rates in Europe at 16% to 2009. Apart from European
products there has been a big increase in imports of
products from the US, Australia and Asia.
Amongst the general public there is growing acceptance
of the medical herbalist philosophy, with its emphasis on
holistic treatment. Despite some adverse publicity, it is
perceived as having fewer side-effects than allopathic
medicine. In a survey of US consumers in 2009, 53%
thought herbal remedies were at least as effective as nonherbal
remedies, and 65% considered them safer3. Studies
in Europe have shown the effectiveness of some herbs such
as garlic. Ginkgo biloba, a peripheral vasodilator, is one of
the top physician-prescribed products in Germany6. In this
paper we look at the safety aspects, not efficacy.
PRODUCT NO 1
HOODIA:
SUCESSFUL WEIGHT LOSS