Alkem Laboratories has signed a contract with Geneva based Horphag Research to source a high value nutraceutical ingredient, Pycnogenol.

Pycnogenol is a registered trademark of Horphag Research Ltd and the extract is protected by international and US patents. Pycnogenol is a natural substance extracted from the bark of French maritime pine tree grown exclusively along the South - West coast of France. Pycnogenol is a well established natural anti - oxidant in Europe and US, an Alkem press release stated.

Hector Bandelier, director (Sales), Horphag Research said, "Alkem Laboratories has already started using Pycnogenol as an ingredient in their cardiovascular product Maxxio."

"Alkem is also planning to use Pycnogenol in their multi vitamin product in tablet, capsule and syrup forms," added Bandelier.

Gautam Shah, MD, GC Chemie Pharmie (that markets & distributes Pycnogenol in India) says "Horphag is looking to expand the use of Pycnogenol in India to nutraceutical companies and even the food industry." He also adds, "Most major transnational and large Indian pharmaceutical companies have realized that the future is for preventive therapy rather than curative therapy".

Pharma companies have an advantage as in India, the promotion is through doctors, and pharmaceutical companies having good access to doctors, the promotion of the products becomes easier.

In addition to being a powerful anti - oxidant & a natural anti - inflammatory, Pycnogenol also lowers blood pressure, helps to seal capillaries & prevents swelling of veins enabling them to relax. As a result the product can be used in segments such as cardiovascular, sun - protection, asthma, allergies, etc.

Horphag Research Ltd, the exclusive supplier of Pycnogenol worldwide sold its first kilo of Pycnogenol in 1987 and at present sells the product in 70 countries.