Advancing Phytomedicine Innovation
Bayer Inaugurates New Phytomedicines Lab Facility
Enables rapid prototyping of new plant-based consumer health products

Darmstadt, Germany, September 18, 2025 – Bayer celebrated today the grand opening of its state-of-the-art laboratory dedicated to advancing innovation in phytomedicines and biotics, including the renowned Iberogast. This milestone marks a significant investment in Bayer’s commitment to delivering natural health solutions to consumers worldwide and underlines Bayer’s commitment at the Darmstadt site.

“This new lab is a game changer for our business and our team,” said Chloe Picot, site lead at Darmstadt. “It gives our world-class team in-house prototyping capabilities, allowing us to innovate more efficiently and quickly.”

The ceremony highlighted Bayer's leadership in the field of phytomedicine which began more than 60 years ago with the development of a novel natural remedy which would become Iberogast. Backed by over 20 scientific studies involving more than 7,000 patients, Iberogast is one of the most thoroughly documented plant-based medicines. Trusted by doctors for its fast, effective remedy of gastrointestinal disorders, it enables millions to experience uncompromised gut health, powered by nature.

The new facility will serve as a hub for research and development to enable continued innovation of Iberogast and other plant-based and biotic solutions, enabling rapid prototyping of new formulations and fostering collaboration among teams.

Thorsten Umland, head of digestive health research and development at Bayer added, “This facility is a testament to Bayer’s commitment to meeting the growing demand for natural health solutions, building on a 60-year legacy of leadership in phytomedicines. The lab will facilitate the development of herbal and natural-based solutions that are validated by science and trusted by consumers, ensuring that Bayer remains at the forefront of phytomedicine innovation”.

About Bayer
Bayer is a global enterprise with core competencies in the life science fields of health care and nutrition. In line with its mission, “Health for all, Hunger for none,” the company’s products and services are designed to help people and the planet thrive by supporting efforts to master the major challenges presented by a growing and aging global population. Bayer is committed to driving sustainable development and generating a positive impact with its businesses. At the same time, the Group aims to increase its earning power and create value through innovation and growth. The Bayer brand stands for trust, reliability and quality throughout the world. In fiscal 2024, the Group employed around 93,000 people and had sales of 46.6 billion euros. R&D expenses amounted to 6.2 billion euros. For more information, go to www.bayer.com.

Contact for media inquiries:
Jeff Donald, +41 79 907 7111
Email: jeffrey.donald@bayer.com

Lena Schroeder, +49 151 23440017
Email: lena.schroeder@bayer.com 

Find more information at www.bayer.com.

jd	(2025-0159E)

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