How to Start Ayurvedic Medicine Export Business?

The ayurvedic medicine export industry offers immense global potential for Indian wellness brands. With rising demand for herbal products, immunity boosters, and holistic care worldwide, Ayurveda is becoming a trusted alternative to modern medicine. Consumer demand for natural and holistic health solutions is continuously rising, and ayurvedic products are seeing widespread acceptance across the US, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific. 

In 2025, the global ayurvedic market reached a value of approximately $18.6 billion. By 2033, it’s expected to reach nearly $89.8 billion, supported by a strong CAGR of over 15% through 2028 and 25.3% through 2033. Moreover, India exported ayurvedic and herbal products worth around $689 million in fiscal year 2025, growing from $651 million in 2024. India now contributes about 2.8% to the global AYUSH market, driven by government initiatives, rising international awareness, and increasing investments in quality and compliance.

This blog will explore the essentials of exporting ayurvedic products, so you can start exporting confidently, avoid costly mistakes, and build a sustainable, compliant business from the ground up.

Why Is Ayurvedic Medicine Gaining Global Popularity?

Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of holistic health, is undergoing a global resurgence. What began as a traditional practice in India is now being adopted across continents, as consumers seek sustainable, natural, and personalised health solutions. India is also emerging as a global wellness hub, with its wellness industry expanding at 12% annually. This is driven by a unique blend of consumer behaviour, scientific innovation, government support, and digital access.

Here are some reasons for the global growth of ayurvedic wellness.

1. Demand for Natural and Sustainable Healthcare

There is a significant global trend toward seeking natural, chemical-free, and eco-conscious healthcare options. Consumers are increasingly wary of the side effects associated with synthetic drugs and chemical-based products. That’s why they are moving toward plant-based and sustainable alternatives. Ayurveda, with its foundation in herbal formulations and holistic healing, aligns closely with these preferences. They offer remedies that focus on root causes and are considered safer and more compatible with long-term wellness goals.

2. Personalised Wellness Through Body Constitution (Prakriti)

Unlike conventional medicine, Ayurveda takes a holistic approach to health, focusing not only on treating symptoms or illnesses but also on balancing the body, mind, and spirit to promote overall well-being. Its personalised approach, based on a user’s unique body constitution (prakriti), enables tailored dietary, lifestyle, and therapeutic interventions. This appeals strongly to people tired of the one-size-fits-all healthcare model.

3. Emphasis on Preventive and Proactive Health

Ayurveda promotes daily and seasonal routines (dinacharya and ritucharya) for maintaining balance and preventing illness. As the world shifts from reactive care to prevention, it’s a proactive way to long-term wellness.

4. Scientific Validation and Modern Innovation

Latest technologies, like genomics, bioinformatics, liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LCMS), and thin-layer chromatography (TLC), are now being used to validate ayurvedic formulations. This is building scientific credibility and integrating Ayurveda into mainstream healthcare systems.

5. Digital Transformation Expanding Global Access

Consumers can now receive ayurvedic healthcare services using digital technology, eliminating the need to visit a clinic in person. Technology is breaking down geographic barriers and bringing Ayurveda directly to users, anywhere in the world.

6. Government and Institutional Support

India’s Ministry of AYUSH is spearheading global awareness, while international bodies like the WHO have formally recognised traditional medicine through frameworks like ICD-11. This institutional backing boosts global legitimacy and export potential.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) added traditional medicine (like Ayurveda) to its International Classification of Diseases, 11th Revision (ICD-11). The G20 and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) have also recognised Ayurveda, influencing global policy and adoption.

Which Licences Are Required to Export Ayurvedic Medicines from India?

Let’s explore all mandatory, regulatory approvals you need in India to be fully prepared for global success.

• Manufacturing Licence (Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940): Secure a valid manufacturing licence issued by the State Licensing Authority under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act. This is a legal requirement if you want to produce ayurvedic medicines in India.
• Import Export Code (IEC): Get this mandatory 10-digit import-export code from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). No exporter can ship products abroad without it.
• AYUSH Product Approval (for Manufacturers): Your products must meet standards set by the Ministry of AYUSH. This applies especially to classical and proprietary formulations.
• Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) Certification: GMP ensures that your facility follows recognised quality and hygiene standards, an essential trust signal for foreign buyers.
• Certificate of Pharmaceutical Product (CoPP): Issued in WHO format by CDSCO, CoPP is required by several importing countries for ayurvedic medicinal products. It certifies that the product is registered and sold freely in India.
• FSSAI Licence (for Consumables): If you’re exporting herbal teas, supplements, or food-based ayurvedic products, this food safety licence is mandatory.
• Free Sale Certificate: It verifies that your product is legally sold in the Indian market. It’s essential for exporting medicines and supplements.
• NPOP Certification (for Organic Products): If you’re exporting organic ayurvedic products from India, you must have them certified under the National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP).

What is the Importance of Certification in Ayurvedic Products?

In India, the licensing and certification of ayurvedic medicines are governed by specific rules under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act and are overseen by authorities such as the Department of AYUSH and the Drugs Controller General of India.

Certifications like the Certificate of Pharmaceutical Product (CoPP) and AYUSH Premium Mark are recognised by regulatory bodies and are often mandatory for legal manufacturing and export.

International markets, including the USA, EU, and Australia, have stringent regulatory requirements for herbal and traditional medicines. Certifications such as WHO-GMP and AYUSH Premium Mark confirm that ayurvedic products meet global quality standards, making it easier for manufacturers to export and compete internationally.

Certified products face fewer regulatory barriers and are more readily accepted by authorities and consumers in foreign countries.

Certification differentiates reputable manufacturers from others. It signals a commitment to quality and safety, which can influence purchasing decisions in both B2B and B2C markets. Certified products are often preferred by buyers, retailers, and distributors, giving certified companies a distinct edge in the marketplace.

Certification processes involve rigorous audits, documentation checks, and regular surveillance to ensure ongoing compliance. This ensures continuous quality improvement and adherence to best practices in sourcing, manufacturing, and quality control.

Standardisation through certification also helps to maintain the therapeutic efficacy and safety of ayurvedic products, which is essential for their acceptance in modern healthcare systems.

How to Comply with FDA and EU Laws for Ayurvedic Goods?

Learn how to meet FDA and EU regulatory requirements for ayurvedic products to ensure safe, legal, and successful international distribution.

Complying with FDA Laws

The US law doesn’t recognise ayurvedic products as a distinct category. Instead, the FDA classifies them based on their intended use and claims, as drugs, dietary supplements, foods, cosmetics, or devices. The compliance approach depends on how the product is marketed and labelled.

1. Product Classification and Claims

Products making claims to prevent, treat, diagnose, or cure diseases are regulated as drugs. Such items cannot be legally sold in the US without FDA approval as those require substantial scientific evidence of safety and efficacy.

Most ayurvedic supplements are sold as dietary supplements. These must comply with the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA), which prohibits disease cure claims and requires appropriate labelling and ingredient disclosure.

2. Labelling Requirements

All ingredients, health warnings, and dosage instructions must be clearly listed on the product label. You are not allowed to include that it can treat, cure, prevent, or reduce the risk of a disease on the label unless that claim has been reviewed and approved by the relevant health authority.

3. Manufacturing Standards

Manufacturers must adhere to the FDA’s GMP regulations to ensure product quality and safety. Products must be free from harmful levels of contaminants, especially heavy metals such as lead, mercury, and arsenic. The FDA has raised concerns about these in some imported ayurvedic goods.

4. Import and Documentation

While not all ayurvedic products require premarket approval, facilities manufacturing, processing, packing, or holding food (including dietary supplements) for consumption in the US must register with the FDA. Maintain records of ingredient sourcing, testing, and manufacturing processes to demonstrate compliance if inspected.

5. Seek Expert Guidance

Due to the complexity of US regulations and the risk of products being detained as ‘unapproved new drugs’ or ‘misbranded drugs’, it is advisable to consult with experts in US food and drug law before exporting or marketing ayurvedic products in the US.

EU Laws for Ayurvedic Goods

To legally market ayurvedic goods in the European Union, companies must comply with a strict regulatory framework established by the EU, primarily under the Traditional Herbal Medicinal Products Directive (THMPD, Directive 2004/24/EC).

What are the key compliance steps?

Ayurvedic goods intended for medicinal use are classified as herbal medicinal products and must comply with EU pharmaceutical legislation.

There are two main regulatory pathways to market:

• Marketing Authorisation: Requires full evidence of product quality, safety, and efficacy, supported by clinical studies of international standards.
• Traditional Herbal Registration (THMPD): A simplified registration for products with a long tradition of safe use. This is the most relevant route for most ayurvedic products.

THMPD Requirements for Ayurvedic Goods

• Traditional Use Evidence: The product must have been in medicinal use for at least 30 years, including at least 15 years within the EU. This is a significant challenge for many ayurvedic products, as they often lack a 15-year history of use within the EU.
• Product Quality and Safety: Manufactured in a facility compliant with EU Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP). Comprehensive quality documentation, including details on raw materials, manufacturing process, finished product testing and safety data, including toxicological studies is required.
• Product Scope: Only products administered orally, externally, or by inhalation are eligible. Intended for use without medical supervision.
• Documentation: Dossiers must include evidence of traditional use, safety, and quality. References to EU-established monographs or lists of approved herbal substances can support applications.
• Labelling and Claims: Medicinal claims are allowed but must be based on traditional use and comply with restrictions on wording.

Practical Considerations

• Licensing: All herbal medicinal products must be licensed or registered before being placed on the EU market. Unlicensed products are banned from sale.
• Importer/Distributor Role: Most exporters work with EU-based importers or distributors familiar with compliance requirements.
• Market Access: Products failing to meet the 15-year EU use requirement or lacking sufficient safety or quality documentation cannot be marketed as herbal medicines.

Which Countries Have the Highest Demand for Ayurvedic Exports?

If you’re planning to export ayurvedic remedies, knowing where demand is highest, regulations are favourable, and consumers trust natural healing is key. Global adoption of Ayurveda is growing, but success depends on targeting the right countries with a smart strategy.

Here are the top ayurvedic export destinations by value (2025):

What Makes Ayurvedic Products Ideal for International Markets?

The ayurvedic product market is witnessing exceptional growth, both in India and globally.

Ayurvedic products’ global market is expanding exponentially beyond India. It was estimated to be worth anywhere between USD 14.4 billion and USD 15.2 billion in 2023–2024. However, recent projections place its value surpassing approximately USD 109.82 billion by 2032. This reflects an impressive CAGR of 27%-28% over the next decade.

The total value of the market in India reached INR 875.9 billion in 2024, with expectations to grow even further and reach INR 3,605 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 16.17%. Earlier, projections for FY28 placed the market at INR 1.2 trillion (USD 16.27 billion) with a CAGR of 15% from FY23 to FY28, highlighting consistent growth.

India sold AYUSH and herbal products worth USD 651.17 million to other countries between 2023 and 2024. The demand is strong in the US, EU, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia. About 80% of the global population now uses some form of traditional medicine, with Ayurveda increasingly recognised as a legitimate, science-backed wellness system.

Which Are the Most Profitable Ayurvedic Products to Export?

If you’re exploring opportunities in ayurvedic exports, here’s a complete breakdown of the most profitable product categories, top-selling items, and market-ready formats.

Health Supplements and Herbal Extracts

The demand for herbal supplements is driven by the shift toward natural immunity boosters, stress relief remedies, and holistic health solutions. These products dominate global ayurvedic exports. 

• Ashwagandha is the most exported ayurvedic herb from India.
• Turmeric (Curcumin)
• Ginger
• Neem
• Triphala
• Tulsi (Holy Basil)
• Brahmi and Shatavari

Essential Oils

India exports a wide range of therapeutic-grade essential oils, primarily used in aromatherapy, skincare, and wellness formulations.

• Sandalwood oil 
• Rose oil 
• Cinnamon, basil, and orange Oils 

The US is the largest buyer of essential oils produced in India. Europe comes next, and the Middle East ranks third. 

Skincare and Personal Care Products

• Ayurvedic beauty products are booming globally due to their natural, sustainable, and chemical-free appeal.
• Face masks, creams, serums, and toners made with turmeric, saffron, aloe vera, and neem.
• Hair care oils and masks containing Bhringraj, Amla, and Coconut oil are especially popular in Southeast Asia and Western beauty markets.
• Herbal soaps and shampoos with ayurvedic infusions are gaining popularity in clean beauty segments.

Traditional Ayurvedic Formulations

Chyawanprash is a powerful immunity-boosting herbal jam. Packed with Amla, it’s widely consumed in health-conscious households worldwide. Teas made with Tulsi, Ginger, Cardamom, and Lemongrass are trending globally. Herbal juices, like Amla, Aloe Vera, and Neem, are becoming popular wellness drinks.

Ayurvedic products are exported in multiple convenient formats, based on global demand and regulatory approvals:

• Tablets and capsules
• Powders and granules
• Pastes and gels
• Herbal ghee (Medicated clarified butter)
• Lotions and creams
• Eye and nasal drops
• Aromatic oils and balms

How Should You Package and Label Ayurvedic Products for Export?

Below is a comprehensive overview of the key packaging guidelines and best practices for global ayurvedic exports.

Legal and Regulatory Compliance

Exporters must comply with Indian laws such as the Drugs and Cosmetics Act and Rules, which set out specific requirements for the manufacturing, packaging, and labelling of ayurvedic products.

Each target market has unique regulations. Exporters must research destination-specific requirements and adapt packaging and labelling to meet these local standards, which may differ significantly from Indian norms.

Packaging Requirements

Use packaging materials that protect products from physical damage, contamination, and environmental factors during transit. For powders, waterproof and eco-friendly linings are preferred; for extracts, use containers that do not react with the product (e.g., lacquered steel, stainless steel, or aluminium).

Ensure every container is tightly closed and secured in a way that no one can open or interfere with it without being noticed. Containers must be thoroughly cleaned and dried before filling to maintain product integrity and prevent contamination.

Where possible, use recyclable or biodegradable materials to comply with environmental standards, especially in markets like the EU.

Labeling Guidelines

Label all products per destination market requirements. Include:

• Product name and purpose
• Ingredient list with common and botanical names
• Dosage and instructions
• Batch number, manufacturing, and expiry dates
• Storage conditions
• Country of origin
• Any required cautionary or allergen statements

Indian regulations enable you to modify labels to meet the importing country’s specific requirements. However, here are some important considerations:

• Include concise instructions for use and any necessary warnings or contraindications.
• Labels should be in English or the language required by the importing country. Some countries may require bilingual or multilingual labels.
• Strict GMP compliance, quality testing, and documentation audits are often required by overseas authorities.
• Include a statement of use (e.g., “For external use only” if applicable). Cautionary statements, especially for substances in Schedule E(1): “Caution: to be taken under medical supervision” in both English and Hindi. If it’s a free sample: “Physician’s sample. Not to be sold”.

Documentation

You need the following standard documents for each shipment:

• Commercial Invoice
• Packing List
• Certificate of Origin
• Bill of Lading or Airway Bill
• Shipping Instructions
• Relevant Regulatory Certificates (FSSAI, AYUSH, GMP, CoPP, etc.)
• A third-party Certificate of Analysis (COA) to verify product quality, composition, and safety.

Ensure all documentation and packaging meet customs requirements to avoid delays or rejections at the border.

What Is the Step-by-Step Process of Exporting Ayurvedic Goods?

Here are the general steps involved in the export of ayurvedic goods.

1. Licensing and Registration

Obtain a valid manufacturing licence for ayurvedic products from the Ministry of AYUSH. Secure an IEC from the DGFT, mandatory for all exporters. Register with relevant export promotion councils like Pharmexcil or FIEO. Acquire additional certifications as needed, depending on the destination market.

2. Product Approval and Compliance

Ensure product approval from the Ministry of AYUSH for each product intended for export. If exporting consumables, obtain an FSSAI licence. For certain destinations, secure a Free Sale Certificate and, if required, FDA registration and labelling compliance (especially for exports to the USA or EU). For organic products, obtain NPOP certification.

3. Quality Control and Testing

Implement stringent quality control measures, including regular inspections and testing, to ensure product safety and compliance with international standards. Adhere to GMP throughout production. Regular audits can help maintain international credibility and compliance. Non-compliance can result in shipment delays or rejections.

4. Packaging and Labelling

Use durable packaging materials to protect products during transit and prevent contamination. Ensure that packaging and labelling comply with the regulations of the destination country (as discussed above).

5. Documentation Preparation

Prepare all required export documents as discussed above.

6. Logistics and Shipping

Partner with trusted shipping companies that have proven experience in managing and transporting ayurvedic products safely and compliantly. Arrange transportation from the factory to the port, ensuring products are stored and handled to maintain quality. Complete customs clearance procedures, submitting all required documents to Indian customs authorities. Coordinate with freight forwarders to book cargo space and manage port formalities.

7. Payment and Distribution

Establish clear payment terms with buyers. Once your goods have cleared all legal checks and the carrier has the right documents, your shipment is officially loaded and starts its journey to the destination country.

What Are the Common Roadblocks in Exporting Ayurvedic Products?

Exporting ayurvedic products faces several significant challenges that hinder the industry’s global growth. These include the following:

Regulatory and Compliance Barriers

Each country has its own set of rules for herbal and traditional medicines. Exporters must navigate complex and varying regulatory frameworks, which often require extensive documentation, certifications, and product testing to meet international health and safety standards.

Many countries, especially Western countries, require proof based on scientific research that an ayurvedic product actually works and is safe to use. The lack of scientifically validated clinical studies for many ayurvedic products makes it difficult to gain regulatory approval. Agencies like the USFDA do not recognise Ayurveda as medicine and have issued warnings against some ayurvedic products, severely limiting market access in key regions.

Quality Assurance and Standardisation Issues

Inconsistent quality and potency between batches undermine trust and make it difficult to meet international quality standards. The industry struggles with a lack of consistent, quality-certified herbal raw materials, leading to concerns about adulteration and product safety. Many manufacturers lack quality assurance systems and internationally recognised certifications such as GMP.

Logistical and Operational Challenges

Even non-prescription ayurvedic exports can get stuck in customs if the documentation isn’t complete or correct. Meeting country-specific packaging and labelling requirements adds another layer of complexity for exporters.

Market and Consumer Barriers

In many regions, consumers have limited awareness or acceptance of ayurvedic products, requiring exporters to invest in education and marketing. The global herbal products market is already crowded, and many companies are already targeting the same customers.

Institutional and Policy Gaps

In some countries, insufficient policy frameworks and a lack of institutional support for sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) standards and certifications create confusion for exporters. Slow adoption of new technologies, dosage forms, and insufficient research and development hinder the sector’s competitiveness and ability to meet global standards.

How ShiprocketX Simplifies International Shipping for Ayurvedic Products?

Shipping ayurvedic products globally involves navigating strict customs, sensitive product handling, and regulatory compliance. ShiprocketX eliminates these complexities by offering an all-in-one cross-border solution tailored for Ayurveda exporters. From seamless documentation to efficient delivery, we enable you to scale globally without operational challenges. You get faster delivery, end-to-end visibility, and compliance support, all required for building trust in global wellness markets.

We simplify international shipping for Ayurveda brands, so you can grow your global presence with confidence. Here’s how:

• We handle customs documentation and tax compliance, ensuring your ayurvedic products meet country-specific import regulations.
• Automated workflows reduce manual errors and speed up deliveries, which is essential for timely international shipments of sensitive wellness goods.
• Keep global customers updated through branded tracking via Email and WhatsApp for better transparency and trust.
• Start shipping internationally at just ₹306 per 50 g through trusted courier partners.
• Monitor shipping performance, top markets, and buyer behaviour to optimise your international growth strategy.

Conclusion

Exporting ayurvedic medicines starts with the right strategy, covering clear compliance, reliable sourcing, and strategic market entry. By following best practices for licensing, quality standards, logistics, and international regulations, and staying updated with global trade regulations, you can ensure compliant export processes and position your business for long-term success. Demand for holistic healthcare will continue to grow in the coming years. That’s why you should focus on authenticity and stay customer-focused if you want to offer wellness solutions to a global audience.