In recent years, the demand for natural and plant-based ingredients has surged, and milk thistle extract has emerged as a star player in this space. Derived from the seeds of the Silybum marianum plant, this botanical extract is celebrated for its high silymarin content—a powerful antioxidant known to support liver health, aid digestion, and even promote skin wellness. As consumers increasingly prioritize clean, organic products, businesses across industries—from supplement brands to cosmetics companies—are on the hunt for reliable sources of high-quality milk thistle extract. Austria, with its strict EU quality regulations, lush alpine landscapes, and a long tradition of herbalism, has become a hub for trusted botanical extract suppliers. Whether you're a small business looking for bulk quantities or a pharmaceutical firm in need of pharmaceutical-grade extracts, finding the right partner is key. In this guide, we'll explore the top 10 milk thistle extract suppliers, manufacturers, wholesalers, and traders in Austria, breaking down their specialties, certifications, and what makes them stand out in a crowded market.
| Company Name | Focus | Key Products | Certifications | Minimum Order |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Botanicals GmbH | Manufacturer & Wholesaler | Organic milk thistle extract (80% silymarin), bulk powder | EU Organic, ISO 9001, GMP | 50 kg |
| Vienna Extracts Co. | Supplier & Exporter | Pharmaceutical-grade milk thistle extract, liquid extracts | ISO 13485, GMP, Kosher | 25 kg |
| Tyrolean Naturals | Bulk Wholesaler | Standardized milk thistle powder, wholesale blends | EU Food Safety, Halal | 100 kg |
| Salzburg Botanical Labs | Manufacturer | Organic certified botanical extracts, custom formulations | Ecocert, USDA Organic, ISO 22000 | 30 kg |
| Carinthia Bulk Herbs | Trader & Wholesaler | Imported/exported milk thistle extract, global distribution | EU REACH, FSSAI | 10 kg |
| Innsbruck Extract Works | Manufacturer | Low-solvent milk thistle extract, sustainable sourcing | Fair Trade, GMP, ISO 14001 | 40 kg |
| Upper Austria Botanicals | Supplier | High-purity silymarin extract (95%), research-grade | Pharmaceutical GMP, ISO 17025 | 1 kg (sample), 50 kg (bulk) |
| Styrian Herb Traders | Wholesaler & Exporter | Bulk botanical extracts, milk thistle for supplements | EU Organic, Kosher, Halal | 20 kg |
| Vorarlberg Naturprodukte | Manufacturer | Organic milk thistle seed oil, powdered extract | Demeter Organic, ISO 9001 | 35 kg |
| Burgenland Extract Supply | Trader | Contract manufacturing, private-label milk thistle extract | ISO 9001, GMP | 50 kg |
1. Alpine Botanicals GmbH
Nestled in the heart of the Austrian Alps, Alpine Botanicals GmbH has been a cornerstone of the botanical extract industry since 2005. What started as a small family-run operation has grown into one of Austria's most trusted manufacturers and wholesalers, with a focus on organic and sustainably sourced ingredients. Their milk thistle extract is a standout product: sourced from certified organic farms in Austria and Hungary, the seeds are cold-pressed and extracted using water-based methods to preserve silymarin potency (they offer standardized extracts with 80% silymarin content, a favorite among supplement brands). As a botanical extracts manufacturer, Alpine Botanicals controls the entire production process, from seed to powder, ensuring consistency and traceability. They specialize in bulk botanical extracts, making them ideal for businesses needing large quantities—their minimum order is 50 kg, but they often accommodate larger requests with discounted pricing. What truly sets them apart, though, is their commitment to sustainability: they use 100% renewable energy in their facilities and offset carbon emissions for all shipments. Certifications include EU Organic, ISO 9001, and GMP, giving clients peace of mind that they're getting a product that meets strict European standards. Whether you're formulating liver support supplements or natural skincare lines, Alpine Botanicals' organic milk thistle extract is a reliable choice for purity and potency.
2. Vienna Extracts Co.
Based in the bustling capital, Vienna Extracts Co. has built a reputation as a go-to supplier for high-quality, pharmaceutical-grade botanical extracts. Founded in 2010 by a team of pharmacists and herbalists, the company prides itself on precision and innovation—they were one of the first in Austria to invest in supercritical CO2 extraction technology, which allows for solvent-free, high-purity extracts. Their milk thistle extract line includes both powdered (standardized to 80–90% silymarin) and liquid formulations, the latter popular in cosmetic serums and oral tinctures. As a supplier and exporter, Vienna Extracts serves clients across Europe, Asia, and North America, with a focus on pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries. Their certifications are impressive: ISO 13485 (medical device quality), GMP, and Kosher, making their extracts suitable for even the most regulated markets. What clients love most is their flexibility—they offer custom formulations (adjusting silymarin levels or particle size) and small-batch production for R&D purposes (minimum order is 25 kg, but samples are available). They also provide detailed COAs (Certificates of Analysis) with every order, so you know exactly what you're getting. If you need a milk thistle extract that meets pharmaceutical standards, Vienna Extracts Co. delivers on quality and reliability.
3. Tyrolean Naturals
For businesses that need milk thistle extract in large quantities, Tyrolean Naturals is the name to know. As a bulk wholesaler with over 30 years in the industry, they specialize in providing cost-effective, high-volume extracts to supplement brands, food manufacturers, and cosmetic companies across Europe. Their milk thistle extract is sourced from verified suppliers in Austria and Italy, then processed in their state-of-the-art facility in Innsbruck. They offer standardized powder (60–80% silymarin) and pre-blended formulations (mixing milk thistle with other botanicals like dandelion or artichoke for liver support blends). While they don't focus on organic certification, they prioritize affordability and consistency—their EU Food Safety and Halal certifications ensure the product is safe for mass-market use. The minimum order is 100 kg, but for clients who can commit to larger volumes (500+ kg), they offer significant wholesale discounts. What sets Tyrolean Naturals apart is their logistics network: they maintain a large warehouse in central Austria, allowing for fast delivery (2–3 days within the EU) and flexible shipping options. They also provide private-label services, making it easy for small brands to launch their own milk thistle supplements without investing in production facilities. If bulk, budget-friendly, and reliable are your top priorities, Tyrolean Naturals won't disappoint.
4. Salzburg Botanical Labs
Salzburg Botanical Labs is a manufacturer that lives and breathes organic. Founded by a group of herbalists who wanted to bridge traditional knowledge with modern extraction techniques, the company has become a leader in organic certified botanical extracts. Their milk thistle extract is a fan favorite: sourced from organic farms in the Salzburg region (where the alpine climate and nutrient-rich soil produce high-silymarin seeds), it's processed using ethanol-free extraction methods to preserve both potency and sustainability. They offer both powder (80% silymarin) and liquid extracts, with options for custom concentrations. Certifications include Ecocert, USDA Organic, and ISO 22000 (food safety), making their products ideal for organic supplement lines, natural cosmetics, and even organic food additives. What makes Salzburg Botanical Labs unique is their focus on transparency—they share the exact farm locations of their ingredients and offer tours of their extraction facility to clients. They also have a dedicated R&D team that works with clients to develop custom formulations, whether you need a slow-release milk thistle powder or a water-soluble extract for beverages. The minimum order is 30 kg, but they're happy to work with smaller businesses on a case-by-case basis. For brands that prioritize organic integrity and storytelling, Salzburg Botanical Labs is a partner you can trust.
5. Carinthia Bulk Herbs
If you're looking for a global trader with a focus on accessibility, Carinthia Bulk Herbs is worth considering. Based in southern Austria, near the Slovenian border, this family-owned business has been importing and exporting botanical extracts for over 40 years, building relationships with manufacturers across Europe, Asia, and the Americas. While they don't produce their own extracts, they curate a selection of high-quality milk thistle extracts from vetted partners, ensuring consistency and affordability. Their offerings include both Austrian-sourced and imported extracts (from countries like Hungary and Poland), with silymarin levels ranging from 40% to 80%. As a trader, they're flexible: minimum order is just 10 kg, making them a great option for small businesses or startups. They also handle global distribution, with experience shipping to markets like Canada, Australia, and Brazil (they're well-versed in international regulations, including EU REACH and India's FSSAI). Clients praise their customer service—their bilingual team (German, English, French) is quick to respond to inquiries and help navigate customs paperwork. While they don't specialize in organic or pharmaceutical-grade extracts, they're a solid choice for general-purpose milk thistle extract at competitive prices. For businesses that need variety and global reach, Carinthia Bulk Herbs simplifies the sourcing process.
6. Innsbruck Extract Works
Innsbruck Extract Works is on a mission to make botanical extraction more sustainable. This innovative manufacturer uses low-solvent, energy-efficient extraction methods (including ultrasonic and cold-press technology) to produce milk thistle extracts with minimal environmental impact. Their facility runs on 100% renewable energy, and they source seeds from farmers who practice regenerative agriculture—ensuring the land is healthier for future harvests. Their milk thistle extract is available in powder (standardized to 70–80% silymarin) and is known for its bright color and high bioavailability (meaning better absorption in the body). Certifications include Fair Trade (ensuring farmers are paid fairly), GMP, and ISO 14001 (environmental management), making them a favorite among eco-conscious brands. The minimum order is 40 kg, but they offer a "sustainability discount" for clients who commit to annual orders, donating a portion of proceeds to reforestation projects. They also provide detailed sustainability reports with each order, so clients can share the eco-friendly story with their customers. If your brand values sustainability as much as quality, Innsbruck Extract Works is a partner that aligns with your mission.
7. Upper Austria Botanicals
For businesses in need of ultra-high-purity milk thistle extract, Upper Austria Botanicals is the gold standard. This specialized manufacturer focuses on pharmaceutical and research-grade extracts, with a silymarin concentration of up to 95%—among the highest in the industry. Their facility is certified to ISO 17025 (testing laboratory standards) and pharmaceutical GMP, ensuring their extracts meet the strict requirements of drug manufacturers and clinical trials. They use advanced chromatography to isolate and purify silymarin, resulting in a highly potent, consistent product. While their primary clients are pharmaceutical companies and research institutions, they also work with nutraceutical brands that want to market "maximum strength" supplements. The minimum order for bulk is 50 kg, but they offer small sample sizes (1 kg) for R&D purposes. What sets Upper Austria Botanicals apart is their technical support—their team of chemists is available to consult on formulation challenges, stability testing, and regulatory compliance. They also provide detailed analytical data, including HPLC profiles and heavy metal testing, to ensure clients meet global standards. If you need a milk thistle extract that's pure, potent, and backed by science, Upper Austria Botanicals delivers.
8. Styrian Herb Traders
Styrian Herb Traders is a wholesaler and exporter with a focus on making botanical extracts accessible to global markets. Based in Graz, the capital of Styria (Austria's "herb region"), they work with a network of local farmers and manufacturers to source high-quality milk thistle extract, then export it to clients in over 30 countries, including Canada, Australia, and Brazil. Their product line includes both organic and conventional milk thistle powder (60–80% silymarin), as well as pre-packaged wholesale blends for supplements. Certifications include EU Organic, Kosher, and Halal, making their extracts suitable for diverse markets. What clients appreciate most is their competitive pricing—by buying directly from farmers and cutting out middlemen, they're able to offer lower costs than many manufacturers. They also have a strong online presence, with a user-friendly portal where clients can request quotes, track orders, and access COAs 24/7. The minimum order is 20 kg, and they offer discounts for repeat clients. For businesses looking to expand internationally, Styrian Herb Traders handles the logistics, including customs documentation and shipping arrangements, making global sourcing a breeze.
9. Vorarlberg Naturprodukte
Vorarlberg Naturprodukte is a manufacturer that specializes in holistic botanical extracts, and their milk thistle seed oil extract is a unique offering in the market. While most suppliers focus on powdered extracts, Vorarlberg cold-presses milk thistle seeds to create a nutrient-dense oil, rich in silymarin, essential fatty acids, and antioxidants. This oil is popular in natural cosmetics (for anti-aging serums and liver-supporting facial oils) and as a dietary supplement (taken orally for liver health). They also offer a powdered version of the oil extract for easier integration into capsules and tablets. Certifications include Demeter Organic (biodynamic farming), ISO 9001, and GMP, reflecting their commitment to both quality and sustainable agriculture. The minimum order is 35 kg, but they sell smaller bottles of the oil extract for cosmetic companies testing new formulations. What makes Vorarlberg stand out is their focus on whole-plant extraction—they believe in preserving the plant's natural synergies, rather than isolating single compounds. Their team includes a certified herbalist who provides consultations on how to best use their milk thistle oil extract in formulations. For brands looking for a unique, nutrient-rich milk thistle product, Vorarlberg Naturprodukte offers something truly different.
10. Burgenland Extract Supply
Last but not least, Burgenland Extract Supply is a trader that specializes in contract manufacturing and private-label services. Based in Burgenland, Austria's easternmost state (known for its fertile plains and agricultural production), they partner with local manufacturers to produce custom milk thistle extracts for clients around the world. Whether you need a specific silymarin concentration, a unique extract form (like microencapsulated powder for slow release), or private-label packaging, they handle the entire process from sourcing to delivery. Their certifications include ISO 9001 and GMP, ensuring consistent quality across all projects. The minimum order is 50 kg, but they're willing to negotiate for larger custom runs. What clients love about Burgenland Extract Supply is their turnkey approach—they manage every step, including ingredient sourcing, extraction, testing, packaging, and shipping, so you can focus on growing your brand. They also offer competitive pricing for private-label orders, with no hidden fees. For businesses that want a one-stop shop for their milk thistle extract needs, Burgenland Extract Supply takes the hassle out of manufacturing.
Choosing the right milk thistle extract supplier in Austria is about more than just price—it's about aligning with your brand's values, whether that's organic certification, sustainability, or pharmaceutical-grade quality. From Alpine Botanicals' organic focus to Vienna Extracts' pharmaceutical precision, each of the suppliers on this list brings something unique to the table. When evaluating options, consider your minimum order needs, target market (EU vs. global), and specific certifications (organic, Kosher, GMP). Don't hesitate to request samples, ask for COAs, or even visit facilities if possible—transparency is key to building a long-term partnership. With Austria's reputation for quality and these trusted suppliers leading the way, you can feel confident that your milk thistle extract will meet the highest standards, whether it's going into a liver support supplement, a natural skincare line, or a functional food product. Here's to finding your perfect botanical partner!



