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AYUSH and Ayurveda: The Business of Traditional Medicine

Major Companies: From Dabur to Patanjali

Long-established firms like Dabur, Himalaya and Baidyanath compete with Patanjali, which grew quickly with a swadeshi pitch.

Several well-known companies dominate branded Ayurveda.

Older names

Dabur, Baidyanath, Zandu (now Emami), Himalaya and Kottakkal Arya Vaidya Sala have long histories.

Patanjali

Founded by Baba Ramdev and Acharya Balkrishna, Patanjali expanded fast in the 2010s, selling food and personal care with a strong ‘made in India’ identity.

Competition

Its rise pushed traditional firms and multinationals to introduce more herbal ranges.

Later challenges

Patanjali faced regulatory action over some advertising claims, showing the importance of truthful marketing.

Price competition

When a new herbal brand undercuts established names on toothpaste, competitors respond with cheaper variants.

Assuming brand fame equals medical proof

Marketing claims still need evidence.

Key takeaways
  • Old and new firms compete.
  • Patanjali grew quickly on a swadeshi message.
  • Multinationals added herbal lines.
  • Advertising claims are regulated.
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