The global herbal supplements and remedies market exhibited robust growth over the decade, with little or apparently no significant decline on account of the worldwide recession, according to a report from Global Industry Analysts, Inc.

In fact, the world market exhibited steady growth for the crisis-ridden period of 2008-2009 and beyond. The importance of healthy diet and good lifestyle reigns in the minds of the consumer, which could not be dampened even by the financial meltdown witnessed in almost every other product segment worldwide.

The recession may have actually prompted increased preference for dietary supplements. Escalating prices, tighter budgets and high healthcare and lifestyle costs have actually driven consumers toward the more economical, healthier and safer option of alternative medicine and dietary supplements for relief from physical and mental disorders.

In the U.S. alone, the sales of vitamins and supplements at the retail level recorded a significant increase of more than 10% in 2008, as compared to the previous year. Recession in the European economy and the increased capital requirements for registration under EU regulation of companies expanded the resources of small companies and provided opportunities for acquisitions in herbal supplements' market.

Europe represents the largest regional market, as stated by the new market research report on Herbal Supplements and Remedies, accounting for the single largest share of the world market. Asia-Pacific and Japan make up the other important markets for herbal supplements on a global basis. In terms of growth rate, the Asia-Pacific market, led largely by China and India, is set to pave the way with the highest CAGR of 10.7% through 2015.

Multi-herbs dominate as the largest segment, capturing a significant share of the overall herbal supplements and remedies market worldwide. The segment is also forecast to race ahead of the other markets at the fastest compounded growth rate of 9% over the analysis period. Soy and Specialty Herbs are also expected to display strong growth potential in the future.