In recent years, the demand for natural health and wellness products has surged, with milk thistle extract leading the charge as a trusted herbal remedy. Renowned for its potential liver-supporting properties, milk thistle extract—derived from the seeds of the Silybum marianum plant—has become a staple in supplements, pharmaceuticals, and even skincare formulations. As more businesses and consumers in New Zealand seek high-quality, reliable sources of this powerful extract, the need to identify top-tier suppliers, manufacturers, wholesalers, and traders has never been greater. Whether you're a small supplement brand, a pharmaceutical company, or a cosmetic manufacturer, finding a partner that prioritizes purity, consistency, and transparency is key. In this guide, we've curated the top 10 milk thistle extract suppliers in New Zealand, each standing out for their commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. Let's dive in and explore what makes these industry leaders worth your attention.
At a Glance: Key Features of New Zealand's Top Milk Thistle Extract Suppliers
| Supplier Name | Core Focus | Key Certifications | Product Formats | Minimum Order |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kiwi Herbals Ltd. | Organic, sustainably sourced extracts | USDA Organic, GMP, ISO 9001 | Powder, liquid, capsules | 1kg (bulk), 500 units (capsules) |
| Southern Extracts NZ | Bulk wholesale for large-scale buyers | GMP, Halal, Kosher | Bulk powder, custom blends | 25kg (bulk powder) |
| Aotearoa Natural Ingredients | Pharmaceutical-grade extracts | TGA compliant, GMP, ISO 13485 | Standardized powder (80% silymarin) | 10kg |
| Pacific Botanicals Trading | Global sourcing, local distribution | Organic EU, Non-GMO Project Verified | Powder, liquid extract, capsules | 5kg (powder), 1kg (liquid) |
| Green Leaf Wholesalers | Small to medium business support | GMP, Organic NZ | Bulk powder, pre-packaged sachets | 1kg (powder), 500 sachets |
| NZ Herbal Extract Co. | Specialized in herbal blends | GMP, organic certified | Milk thistle + dandelion blends, pure extract | 2kg (blends), 1kg (pure extract) |
| Maple & Mānuka Trading | Export-focused, international partnerships | ISO 9001, HACCP | Bulk powder, encapsulated products | 50kg (export), 10kg (local) |
| Pure NZ Extracts | Sustainability and ethical sourcing | Fair Trade, GMP, organic | Cold-pressed liquid extract, powder | 3kg (liquid), 5kg (powder) |
| Harvest Health Ingredients | Cosmetic and skincare formulations | Cosmos Organic, Ecocert | Low-sensitivity powder, oil-soluble extract | 2kg (cosmetic grade) |
| National Nutraceuticals NZ | Research-backed, high-potency extracts | FDA registered, GMP, NSF | Standardized powder (90% silymarin) | 5kg |
In-Depth Profiles: New Zealand's Leading Milk Thistle Extract Suppliers
1. Kiwi Herbals Ltd.
Founded in 2005, Kiwi Herbals Ltd. has built a reputation as one of New Zealand's most trusted names in organic herbal extracts. What started as a small family-run operation in the Waikato region has grown into a national leader, thanks to their unwavering focus on sustainability and purity. Specializing in milk thistle extract, they source seeds from certified organic farms in the South Island, where the cool climate and nutrient-rich soil are said to enhance the plant's silymarin content—the active compound responsible for milk thistle's liver-supporting benefits.
Kiwi Herbals uses a gentle, cold-extraction process to preserve the integrity of the silymarin, avoiding harsh solvents that can compromise quality. Their product line includes everything from pure milk thistle extract powder (ideal for supplement brands) to ready-to-use liquid extracts and even pre-encapsulated options for businesses looking to skip the formulation step. What truly sets them apart, though, is their commitment to transparency: every batch comes with a detailed certificate of analysis (CoA), and they welcome factory tours for clients who want to see their processes firsthand.
Certifications? They've got them in spades: USDA Organic, GMP, and ISO 9001, to name a few. For small to medium businesses, their minimum order quantities are approachable—starting at just 1kg for powder or 500 capsules—making them a go-to for startups and established brands alike. If you're prioritizing organic, locally sourced ingredients, Kiwi Herbals is hard to beat.
2. Southern Extracts NZ
For businesses that need milk thistle extract in bulk, Southern Extracts NZ is the name to know. Based in Christchurch, this wholesaler has carved out a niche by catering to large-scale buyers, from national supplement manufacturers to international distributors. Their sweet spot? High-volume orders of milk thistle extract powder, with a focus on consistency and cost-effectiveness. Whether you're producing thousands of bottles of liver support supplements or need a reliable source for a multinational cosmetic brand, Southern Extracts has the capacity to deliver.
One of the key advantages of working with Southern Extracts is their global sourcing network. While they're based in New Zealand, they partner with trusted farms in Europe and Australia to ensure a steady supply of high-quality milk thistle seeds year-round. Their extraction facility, equipped with state-of-the-art machinery, can process up to 500kg of seeds per day, resulting in bulk milk thistle extract that's standardized to 80% silymarin—a popular choice for most supplement formulations.
Certifications include GMP, Halal, and Kosher, which broadens their appeal to diverse markets. They also offer custom blending services, allowing clients to mix milk thistle extract with other herbal ingredients like dandelion or artichoke for enhanced formulas. Minimum orders start at 25kg for bulk powder, but for long-term partners, they're willing to negotiate lower thresholds. If your business runs on scale, Southern Extracts NZ is a supplier that can keep up.
3. Aotearoa Natural Ingredients
When it comes to pharmaceutical-grade milk thistle extract, Aotearoa Natural Ingredients is a standout. Based in Auckland, this manufacturer specializes in producing extracts that meet the strict standards of the pharmaceutical industry, making them a trusted partner for drug companies and research institutions across New Zealand and beyond. Their milk thistle extract is standardized to an impressive 80% silymarin, with ultra-low levels of heavy metals and contaminants—critical for pharmaceutical applications.
Aotearoa Natural Ingredients' facility is TGA compliant (Australia's Therapeutic Goods Administration) and holds ISO 13485 certification, a rigorous standard for medical device manufacturers. Their extraction process is highly controlled, using advanced chromatography to ensure each batch is consistent in potency. They also invest heavily in research and development, collaborating with universities to explore new applications for milk thistle extract, from liver disease treatments to anti-inflammatory drugs.
While their primary focus is pharmaceutical clients, they do work with ｓｅｌｅｃｔ nutraceutical brands that prioritize pharmaceutical-grade quality. Minimum orders are higher—starting at 10kg—but the trade-off is unmatched purity and reliability. If your product requires the highest level of certification and testing, Aotearoa Natural Ingredients should be at the top of your list.
4. Pacific Botanicals Trading
Pacific Botanicals Trading is all about bridging the gap between global sourcing and local distribution. With offices in Wellington and Sydney, this supplier imports high-quality milk thistle extract from organic farms in Germany and France—regions renowned for their premium milk thistle crops—and distributes them across New Zealand and Australia. Their goal? To make top-tier ingredients accessible to local businesses without the hassle of international shipping and customs delays.
What makes Pacific Botanicals unique is their focus on sustainability. They partner with farms that follow regenerative agriculture practices, and their extraction partners use eco-friendly solvents and energy-efficient processes. Their product line includes both pure milk thistle extract powder and liquid extracts, with options for organic and non-organic formulations. For clients interested in storytelling, they even provide detailed sourcing reports, so you can trace your milk thistle extract back to the specific farm it came from—a selling point for eco-conscious consumers.
Certifications include Organic EU and Non-GMO Project Verified, and their minimum orders are reasonable: 5kg for powder or 1kg for liquid extract. Whether you're a small batch brewer creating herbal tonics or a supplement brand looking to highlight "European organic" on your label, Pacific Botanicals Trading offers a convenient, ethical solution.
5. Green Leaf Wholesalers
Small businesses, rejoice: Green Leaf Wholesalers is here to support you. Based in Hamilton, this family-owned supplier understands the challenges of scaling a new brand, which is why they've designed their services with flexibility in mind. Need just 1kg of milk thistle extract powder to test a new supplement formula? They've got you. Want pre-packaged sachets of liquid extract for a pop-up wellness event? They can do that too. Green Leaf prides itself on being a "partner for growth," offering personalized service and low minimum orders to help small businesses thrive.
Their milk thistle extract is sourced from organic farms in New Zealand's Canterbury region, and they use a water-based extraction method that's gentle on the environment. While they're smaller than some of the other suppliers on this list, they don't skimp on quality: every batch is tested for silymarin content and contaminants, and they hold GMP and Organic NZ certifications. They also offer quick turnaround times—most orders ship within 2-3 business days—which is a lifesaver for businesses that need to restock unexpectedly.
If you're a startup or a local business looking for a supplier that treats you like a priority, not just a number, Green Leaf Wholesalers is worth adding to your shortlist.
6. NZ Herbal Extract Co.
NZ Herbal Extract Co. isn't just about milk thistle—they're about creating synergistic herbal blends that maximize efficacy. Based in Tauranga, this manufacturer specializes in combining milk thistle extract with other liver-loving herbs like dandelion, artichoke, and turmeric, creating pre-made blends that supplement brands can use as-is or tweak to fit their needs. It's a time-saver for businesses that want to offer comprehensive liver support formulas without investing in R&D.
Their pure milk thistle extract is nothing to sneeze at, either. Sourced from organic farms in the South Island, it's standardized to 80% silymarin and available in powder or liquid form. What sets their blends apart, though, is the research behind them: NZ Herbal Extract Co. works with herbalists and naturopaths to ensure their combinations are not only effective but also safe and well-tolerated. For example, their "Liver Detox Blend" pairs milk thistle with dandelion root (known for its diuretic properties) and burdock (a natural blood cleanser), creating a formula that addresses multiple aspects of liver health.
Certifications include GMP and organic, and minimum orders start at 2kg for blends or 1kg for pure extract. If you're looking to offer more than just standalone milk thistle, NZ Herbal Extract Co. has the expertise to help you create a standout product.
7. Maple & Mānuka Trading
Maple & Mānuka Trading is all about export. With a focus on international markets, this Auckland-based trader partners with milk thistle extract manufacturers in New Zealand and Australia to supply bulk ingredients to buyers in Asia, Europe, and North America. While they do serve local clients, their bread and butter is large-scale orders—think 50kg+ of milk thistle extract powder for multinational supplement brands or pharmaceutical companies.
What makes Maple & Mānuka a top choice for exporters? Their logistics expertise. They handle all the paperwork, shipping, and customs clearance, ensuring that orders arrive on time and in compliance with local regulations. They also offer private labeling services, allowing clients to brand the milk thistle extract as their own before it hits the market. Their product line includes both standard and high-potency milk thistle extract (up to 90% silymarin), as well as encapsulated options for clients who want ready-to-sell products.
Certifications include ISO 9001 and HACCP, and they're experienced in meeting the specific requirements of different countries—whether it's China's CFDA standards or the EU's Novel Food regulations. If your business is looking to expand globally, Maple & Mānuka can help you navigate the complexities of international trade.
8. Pure NZ Extracts
Sustainability isn't just a buzzword for Pure NZ Extracts—it's the core of their business model. Located in Nelson, this manufacturer sources milk thistle seeds from local, family-owned farms that use regenerative farming practices, such as crop rotation and natural pest control, to minimize environmental impact. They then process the seeds in-house using a cold-press extraction method that requires 30% less energy than traditional solvent-based methods, resulting in a product that's good for both your health and the planet.
Pure NZ's milk thistle extract is available in two forms: a cold-pressed liquid extract (ideal for tinctures and skincare serums) and a powder (great for supplements). Both are certified organic and Fair Trade, meaning the farmers who grew the milk thistle seeds receive a fair price for their crops. The liquid extract, in particular, has gained a following among natural skincare brands, thanks to its high antioxidant content and ability to soothe irritated skin.
Minimum orders are reasonable—3kg for liquid or 5kg for powder—and they offer discounts for clients who commit to long-term contracts. If sustainability is a core value of your brand, Pure NZ Extracts will help you walk the walk, not just talk the talk.
9. Harvest Health Ingredients
While many milk thistle extract suppliers focus on supplements, Harvest Health Ingredients has made a name for itself in the cosmetic and skincare industry. Based in Wellington, this supplier specializes in low-sensitivity milk thistle extract that's gentle enough for use in facial serums, moisturizers, and even baby products. Their secret? A proprietary filtration process that removes impurities and reduces the risk of skin irritation, making their extract suitable for all skin types—including sensitive and acne-prone.
Their product line includes both water-soluble and oil-soluble milk thistle extract, giving formulators flexibility. The oil-soluble version is particularly popular for anti-aging products, as it penetrates deeply to deliver antioxidants that combat free radicals and promote collagen production. They also offer a range of pre-blended extracts, such as milk thistle + green tea (for added brightening) or milk thistle + hyaluronic acid (for extra hydration).
Certifications include Cosmos Organic and Ecocert, which are essential for natural and organic skincare brands. Minimum orders start at 2kg for cosmetic-grade extract, and they provide samples upon request—so you can test the product in your formulations before committing to a large order. If you're in the skincare or beauty industry, Harvest Health Ingredients is a supplier that understands your unique needs.
10. National Nutraceuticals NZ
Rounding out our list is National Nutraceuticals NZ, a Hamilton-based manufacturer that prides itself on research-backed, high-potency ingredients. Their claim to fame? A milk thistle extract standardized to 90% silymarin—the highest concentration available on the New Zealand market. This makes it a favorite among pharmaceutical companies and high-end supplement brands that want to highlight "maximum strength" on their labels.
National Nutraceuticals invests heavily in R&D, collaborating with the University of Auckland to study the efficacy of their extracts. They've even published research showing that their high-potency milk thistle extract may have enhanced liver-protective effects compared to lower-concentration versions. Their facility is FDA registered and holds GMP and NSF certifications, ensuring that every batch meets the strictest quality standards.
While their high-potency extract is their flagship product, they also offer a standard 80% silymarin version for clients who don't need the extra concentration. Minimum orders start at 5kg, and they offer technical support for clients who need help formulating with their high-strength extract. If you're looking for a milk thistle extract that's backed by science and delivers maximum results, National Nutraceuticals NZ is the way to go.
Choosing the Right Milk Thistle Extract Supplier for Your Needs
With so many excellent options, finding the right milk thistle extract supplier in New Zealand ultimately comes down to your specific needs. Are you a small business looking for organic, locally sourced ingredients? Kiwi Herbals or Pure NZ Extracts might be your best bet. Need bulk quantities for a large-scale supplement line? Southern Extracts NZ or Maple & Mānuka Trading have the capacity to deliver. In the market for pharmaceutical-grade or high-potency extract? Aotearoa Natural Ingredients or National Nutraceuticals NZ should be at the top of your list.
No matter which supplier you choose, prioritize transparency, certifications, and a proven track record of quality. A reliable milk thistle extract supplier should be willing to share batch test results, walk you through their sourcing and extraction processes, and offer responsive customer support. After all, the quality of your ingredients directly impacts the quality of your final product—and your brand's reputation.
Whether you're creating liver support supplements, anti-aging skincare, or herbal tonics, the suppliers on this list have the expertise and products to help you succeed. Here's to finding your perfect partner in the world of milk thistle extract!
