The New Delhi-based Alchem International is setting up its third plant for extraction of herbs at Neemrana in Rajasthan. The company has currently two GMP approved units in Faridabad and Panipat.

Kavita Khanna, vice-president, Marketing and Business Development told Pharmabiz that Alchem may take up purification activity in all its units and may shift a part of extraction work that is being carried out in its existing facilities. The company's investment towards the facility was not disclosed.

The company manufactures various natural pharmaceuticals and other active ingredients, standardized extracts, ayurvedic extracts and health supplements.

It is also carrying out clinical trials for synergised extracts for diabetes, arthritis, weight management, stress concentration and memory. The trials, which are being carried out in various countries, may be completed by the end of 2005. It produces extracts as per customer specification and deals with niche areas, she added.

In the natural pharmaceuticals and other active ingredients category, new products include Artemisinin, Artemether, Arteether, Coenzyme-Q-10 and Solanesol besides others.

Alchem is the largest phytochemical plant in the country with an extraction capacity of 8000 tonnes per annum spread over 34 acres. The company has been serving its clients in more than 30 countries including the US, Japan, North America, Germany, France, UK and Africa, she informed.