Ixoreal Biomed on building a global ashwagandha brand

THE POPULARITY of Indian ginseng or ashwagandha in the APAC region is on the rise as consumers become more aware of its health benefits. Used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years, it is valued for its bioactive compounds called withanolides, naturally occurring steroids that contain anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

As it is a self-affirmed GRAS (Generally Regarded as Safe) and neutral taste ingredient, ashwagandha can be utilized as a complementary herbal ingredient in food, beverages, dietary/ sports nutrition supplement, pet health and personal care formulations. It is commonly marketed for stress relief, anxiety, sleep improvement, male infertility, and to enhance athletic performance. Research indicates that certain preparations of ashwagandha might be effective for insomnia and stress, yet the impact on anxiety remains uncertain, based on information from the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services disclosed the research shows that some ashwagandha.

Ixoreal Biomed Inc, the producers of KSM-66 Ashwagandha—the world’s most recognized full-spectrum Ashwagandha root extract is a key title sponsor of the recent Vitafoods Asia 2024 exhibition in Bangkok. Known for its extensive scientific backing and exceptional quality, KSM-66 has become a key player in the global nutraceutical industry, particularly in categories related to stress management, cognitive enhancement, and sports nutrition.

Nishant Chachra, Vice President of Business Development of Ixoreal Biomed Inc.

FoodPacific Manufacturing Journal had the privilege of interviewing Mr. Nishant Chachra, Vice President of Business Development of Ixoreal Biomed Inc. In this exclusive interview, he provided valuable insights into the distinctive positioning of KSM-66, which is backed by extensive scientific research with clinical studies.

What are the key benefits of Ashwagandha for health and wellness?

Ashwagandha has been the subject of over 50 research studies and clinical trials. Its primary benefits include stress reduction, improved sleep, enhanced cognitive function, increased cardiorespiratory endurance, and muscle strength. Ashwagandha supports health across all generations and is also beneficial for pet health.

How does KSM-66 stand out from other Ashwagandha extracts on the market?

Our KSM-66 is the highest-concentration, full-spectrum Ashwagandha root extract with the most comprehensive research backing. As the only major brand managing the entire production process—from farming to distribution—we ensure superior quality and control. Our facilities meet pharmaceutical-grade standards, and we hold 43 quality certifications, the highest of any botanical ingredient. This integrated approach allows us to offer premium products at competitive prices by eliminating middlemen.

What are the opportunities and challenges in your market?

North America remains the largest market for Ashwagandha, with growing demand in the Asia-Pacific region, particularly in Australia, New Zealand, Taiwan, Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam, and the Philippines. We’ve seen increased interest in Vietnam, driven by awareness through platforms like TikTok. Consumers are becoming more discerning, valuing branded ingredients supported by clinical studies and safety certifications.

One challenge is that Ashwagandha is classified only as herbal medicine in Thailand, restricting its sale as a dietary supplement. Then, our focus is on other Asia-Pacific markets, particularly Australia and New Zealand.

Which customer segments are most interested in KSM-66, and how do you target them?

Our key customer segments are those seeking stress relief and better sleep. KSM-66 is also gaining traction in the sports supplement market, with five clinical studies supporting its benefits for muscle strength and recovery. More than 2,800 local brands now incorporate KSM-66 into their products, particularly in sports supplements.

What is your outlook for the year ahead in Southeast Asia?

As Ashwagandha becomes a well-known mainstream ingredient in North America and Europe, there are significant growth opportunities in Asia. Australia and New Zealand are poised for the most growth, with Malaysia leading the way in Southeast Asia.

KSM-66 is also popular for sexual wellness, particularly for men, and we aim to expand consumer awareness of its multiple benefits, all supported by clinical studies. Our strategies are to collaborate with key opinion leaders and influencers to provide customized research and drive awareness.

References

KSM-66 Ashwagandha/Ingredient overview booklet

Research on KSM-66 Ashwagandha https://ksm66ashwagandhaa.com/clinical-studies/

National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services  https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/ashwagandha