With the growing demand for plant-based pharmaceuticals globally, universities and academic institutions are playing an increasingly vital role in developing, innovating, and commercializing herbal medicine products.
With the growing demand for plant-based pharmaceuticals globally, universities and academic institutions are playing an increasingly vital role in developing, innovating, and commercializing herbal medicine products.
In recent years, prominent Iranian universities such as Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University, Tabriz University, and Isfahan University have taken significant steps by establishing incubation centers, supporting academic startups, and partnering with accelerators to transfer research into real-world herbal medicine solutions.
Experts emphasize that improved collaboration between universities and the herbal industry is critical for closing the innovation gap. Through access to advanced laboratories, shared research platforms, and strategic partnerships, academic research can move more efficiently from concept to commercial product—enhancing both product quality and global market readiness.
Many graduate theses and student-led research projects have evolved into successful herbal startups with the support of acceleration programs and venture capital. Organizations like PadidehGiah are at the forefront, offering academic teams mentorship, regulatory guidance, access to testing facilities, and go-to-market strategies.
Despite this progress, further policy support is essential. Analysts suggest that joint research grants, simplified licensing processes, and investment in university-based innovation infrastructure could accelerate this ecosystem even further and position Iran as a key player in the global herbal medicine market.
