Nanotec-NSTDA is advancing under "Yotsanan" policy by promoting herbal products globally, launching three research innovations: effervescent turmeric tablets, melasma reduction from porcine placenta, and an antifungal spray for animal skin from Tongpan Chang herb, addressing business value enhancement.
On 27 Aug 2026 GMT+7, reporters noted that Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, Mr. Yotsanan Wongsawat, is pushing local herbs into the high-value global health market. Recently, the National Nanotechnology Center (Nanotec) under the National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA) has advanced research on herbal extracts toward commercial use, unveiling "effervescent tablets made from turmeric nanoparticles.,A melasma reduction product derived from porcine placenta extract, and an antifungal product for pet skin using Tongpan Chang and saponin extracts"—three research projects from three private partners that have undergone market opportunity testing and agreed to technology transfer under the project "Creating Value for Herbal Products in New High-Value Markets."
They also held an event titled "From Research Power to New High-Value Markets" aiming to connect knowledge, technology, and business sectors to increase the value of Thai herbs and develop new products that meet high-value market demands.
Dr. Urcha Raktanonchai, Director of Nanotec NSTDA, stated that Nanotec’s policy is to apply science, technology, and innovation to develop Thai herbs into high-quality, differentiated products competitive in high-value markets. This project is a key mechanism linking research with business needs by developing product prototypes at a level where entrepreneurs can test with target customers, evaluate production costs, business plans, and market opportunities before deciding on technology transfer.
The strategy positions the project as a shortcut to innovation, closing the gap between research outputs and industrial-scale production feasibility, investment, costs, pricing, product standards, and consumer acceptance. When entrepreneurs see opportunities and gain confidence in the work, they proceed to technology transfer, enabling research to reach end users while providing entrepreneurs with data to support decisions and reduce investment risks.
Dr. Boontavee Pitaktansakul, CEO of HC & PR Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., said the effervescent turmeric nanoparticle product uses Encapsulated Curcuminoid technology combined with effervescent tablet form and synergistic agents including Piperine and UC-II to develop a product for joint and mobility health. The prototype received positive feedback from volunteer tests and shows commercial potential. The company aims to develop models applicable to various plants and herbs, elevating agricultural raw materials into high-value innovative products and providing farmers opportunities to participate in higher-value supply chains.
Meanwhile, Ms. Wannapa Chinchusak, Managing Director of Bio Bloom Co., Ltd., part of Saraburi Farm Group, said the company joined the project to reduce waste disposal impact and collaborated with Nanotec researchers to study porcine placenta properties before developing an extract for cosmeceutical products. The melasma reduction product from porcine placenta extract contains key components such as amino acids, peptides, vitamins, and minerals. Its highlights include inhibiting melanin production and related enzymes, as well as antioxidant properties, meeting the demands of the growing skincare market.
Ms. Orawan Amnarksorndej, Director of Research and Development at Vet Products Research and Innovation Center Co., Ltd. (VRI), said the prototype spray for pet skin care using nano-formulated Tongpan Chang extract applies Thai herbs developed scientifically into convenient forms. They expect to commercialize this product in the Pet Health & Pet Care market and add value to Thai herbs.
