If you've ever picked up a liver support supplement, glanced at the ingredients list of a detox tea, or even checked the back of a natural skincare serum, there's a good chance you've come across milk thistle extract. Celebrated for its active compound silymarin—a powerful antioxidant known to support liver health, reduce inflammation, and even boost skin radiance—this botanical extract has become a staple in everything from dietary supplements to functional foods and cosmetics. But here's the thing: not all milk thistle extracts are created equal. The quality, purity, and consistency of the extract you source can make or break the effectiveness of your final product. That's why, whether you're a small-batch supplement maker, a large-scale cosmetic brand, or a food manufacturer looking to add a healthful twist to your offerings, finding the right supplier is non-negotiable.
In this guide, we're diving into the top 10 milk thistle extract suppliers, manufacturers, wholesalers, and traders based in the USA. We'll break down what makes each stand out, from their commitment to organic sourcing to their ability to handle bulk orders, stringent quality testing, and certifications that ensure you're getting the real deal. Whether you're after high-potency silymarin (the gold standard in milk thistle), bulk quantities for cost savings, or specialized extracts tailored to pharmaceutical or cosmetic use, we've got you covered. Let's jump in and find your perfect match.
1. Herbal Essence Labs (Los Angeles, CA)
Founded in 2005, Herbal Essence Labs has built a reputation as one of the most reliable milk thistle extract manufacturers on the West Coast. What started as a small family-run operation has grown into a go-to partner for both startups and Fortune 500 companies, thanks to their unwavering focus on quality and customer service. Specializing in bulk milk thistle extract, they offer everything from standard 80% silymarin powder to custom formulations with higher concentrations (up to 95%) for pharmaceutical clients.
What really sets Herbal Essence Labs apart is their vertically integrated supply chain. They source organic milk thistle seeds directly from family farms in California and Oregon, ensuring full traceability from field to finished product. Every batch undergoes third-party testing for heavy metals, pesticides, and microbial contaminants, with certificates of analysis (COAs) provided with each order. Their state-of-the-art facility in Los Angeles is GMP-certified and FDA-registered, so you can trust that their extracts meet the highest industry standards.
Whether you're a supplement brand needing 50kg of organic milk thistle extract or a cosmetic company looking for a liquid formulation, Herbal Essence Labs prides itself on flexibility. They offer both powder and liquid extracts, and their minimum order quantity (MOQ) is surprisingly accessible for small businesses—starting at just 1kg for standard products. Plus, their customer service team is known for being responsive, often turning around custom requests or rush orders in under a week. If reliability and transparency are your top priorities, this is a supplier worth adding to your shortlist.
2. PureNature Extracts (Chicago, IL)
When it comes to high-quality milk thistle extract with a focus on sustainability, PureNature Extracts in Chicago is hard to beat. Established in 2010, this women-owned business has made a name for itself by prioritizing eco-friendly practices at every step—from using solar energy in their extraction facility to partnering with fair-trade farms in the Midwest. Their milk thistle extract is not only organic certified (USDA and EU organic) but also non-GMO, gluten-free, and vegan, making it a hit with brands targeting health-conscious consumers.
PureNature's claim to fame is their cold-extraction process, which they say preserves more of milk thistle's beneficial compounds compared to traditional heat-based methods. The result? A brighter, more potent extract with a silymarin content that consistently tests above 85%. They offer a range of formats, including standardized powder, water-soluble extract for beverages, and even encapsulated extracts for brands that want to skip the formulation step. For cosmetic companies, their alcohol-free liquid extract is a favorite, as it blends seamlessly into serums and creams without causing irritation.
What customers love most about PureNature is their dedication to education. They regularly host webinars for clients on milk thistle's benefits, extraction techniques, and regulatory compliance, and their in-house lab team is always available to answer technical questions. While their prices are slightly higher than some competitors, many clients say the premium is worth it for the peace of mind that comes with their rigorous testing and sustainability credentials. MOQs start at 5kg for bulk orders, but they also offer sample sizes (100g) for brands looking to test formulations before committing.
3. GreenField Botanicals (Portland, OR)
Nestled in the Pacific Northwest, GreenField Botanicals has been a cornerstone of the botanical extract industry since 1998. Known for their pharmaceutical-grade products, they're a top choice for companies in the nutraceutical and pharmaceutical sectors that demand extracts with precise silymarin profiles. Their milk thistle extract is standardized to 80% silymarin, with additional options for 90% and 95% concentrations—ideal for products targeting liver health or antioxidant support.
GreenField's facility in Portland is ISO 9001 and ISO 13485 certified, meaning they adhere to the strictest quality management systems, often required for pharmaceutical applications. They use a proprietary supercritical CO2 extraction method, which avoids the use of harsh solvents and results in a cleaner, more concentrated extract. Every batch is tested using HPLC (high-performance liquid chromatography) to verify silymarin content, and they also offer microbial and heavy metal testing upon request.
While GreenField primarily caters to large-scale buyers (their MOQ is 25kg for standard extracts), they're willing to work with smaller brands on a case-by-case basis, especially if there's potential for long-term partnership. Their customer service team includes a certified herbalist who can provide guidance on formulation and dosage, which is a huge plus for startups. They also offer private labeling services for clients who want to launch their own milk thistle supplement line without investing in manufacturing equipment. If you need a supplier that can meet the rigorous standards of the pharmaceutical industry, GreenField Botanicals is a solid bet.
4. Midwest Extract Co. (Kansas City, MO)
For businesses looking to balance quality and affordability, Midwest Extract Co. in Kansas City is a standout option. Founded in 2012, this wholesale-focused supplier has built its model around keeping costs low without compromising on purity. They source milk thistle seeds from both domestic and international farms (primarily in the US and Eastern Europe), allowing them to offer competitive pricing while maintaining strict quality controls.
Midwest Extract Co. offers a range of milk thistle extracts, including organic and conventional options, with silymarin concentrations from 60% to 80%. Their most popular product is their bulk conventional milk thistle powder, which is a favorite among food and beverage manufacturers adding liver-support benefits to energy drinks, protein bars, and even herbal teas. They also offer a water-soluble extract that dissolves easily in liquids, making it ideal for ready-to-drink supplements.
One of the biggest advantages of working with Midwest Extract Co. is their fast turnaround times. They keep large quantities of standard extracts in stock, so most orders ship within 24–48 hours. Their MOQ is 10kg for bulk powder, but they often run promotions for first-time buyers, waiving the minimum for sample orders. While they don't offer as many certifications as some competitors (they're GMP-certified but not organic), their third-party testing ensures that their extracts are free from contaminants and meet label claims. If cost and speed are your top priorities, this supplier should be on your radar.
5. Coastal Natural Ingredients (Savannah, GA)
Coastal Natural Ingredients has made a name for itself as a leading milk thistle extract supplier for the cosmetic and personal care industry. Based in Savannah, GA, since 2015, they specialize in extracts tailored to skincare and haircare formulations, with a focus on gentle, non-irritating ingredients. Their milk thistle extract is alcohol-free and water-based, making it suitable for sensitive skin products like serums, moisturizers, and anti-aging creams.
What sets Coastal apart is their commitment to innovation. They've developed a unique microencapsulated milk thistle extract that releases silymarin slowly when applied to the skin, increasing its efficacy and reducing the risk of oxidation. This technology is a game-changer for cosmetic brands looking to create long-lasting products with visible results. They also offer a line of organic milk thistle extracts certified by Ecocert, appealing to clean beauty brands.
Coastal works with both small indie brands and large cosmetic corporations, with MOQs as low as 1kg for standard extracts and 5kg for custom formulations. Their team includes cosmetic chemists who can help clients optimize their formulations, whether you're looking to boost hydration, reduce redness, or enhance antioxidant protection. They also provide stability testing data to help brands extend their product shelf life. While their prices are on the higher end for cosmetic extracts, clients rave about the quality and the technical support they receive. If you're in the beauty industry, Coastal Natural Ingredients is a must-contact.
6. Harvest Moon Trading (Minneapolis, MN)
Harvest Moon Trading is a wholesaler with a difference: they specialize in connecting international buyers with US-based manufacturers, making them a bridge between global demand and domestic quality. While they don't produce milk thistle extract themselves, they partner with a network of GMP-certified manufacturers across the country to offer a wide range of options, from organic bulk powder to pharmaceutical-grade liquid extracts. This model allows them to offer competitive pricing and flexible terms, as they can source from multiple suppliers to meet client needs.
Founded in 2010, Harvest Moon has built a reputation for transparency. They provide clients with detailed profiles of their manufacturing partners, including facility certifications, sourcing practices, and testing protocols, so you know exactly where your extract is coming from. They also handle all the logistics, from coordinating production to arranging shipping (both domestic and international), making the process seamless for busy brands.
Harvest Moon is particularly popular with international buyers looking to source US-made milk thistle extract, as they handle customs documentation and ensure compliance with import regulations. They also offer private labeling and white-label services for clients who want to launch their own supplement lines without managing production. MOQs vary depending on the manufacturer, but they can often negotiate lower minimums for repeat clients. If you're a global brand or a domestic company looking for a one-stop shop for all your botanical extract needs, Harvest Moon Trading is worth considering.
7. Nature's Bounty Extracts (Austin, TX)
Nature's Bounty Extracts, based in Austin, TX, is a rising star in the botanical extract space, known for their focus on small-batch, artisanal extracts. Founded in 2018 by a team of herbalists and food scientists, they've carved out a niche by offering high-quality milk thistle extract with a personal touch that larger manufacturers often lack. Their extracts are made in small batches using traditional maceration techniques combined with modern testing, resulting in products that honor both tradition and science.
Nature's Bounty sources organic milk thistle seeds from local Texas farms, supporting the regional agricultural economy and reducing their carbon footprint. They offer both powder and liquid extracts, with silymarin concentrations ranging from 70% to 85%. What makes them unique is their "farm-to-bottle" storytelling—they share the stories of their partner farmers on their website and in their marketing materials, helping clients connect with consumers who value transparency and local sourcing.
While they're a smaller operation, Nature's Bounty has quickly gained a loyal following among natural product brands and herbalists. Their MOQs are very low (just 500g for powder extracts), making them accessible to startups and small businesses. They also offer custom blending services, allowing clients to mix milk thistle with other botanicals like dandelion or turmeric for unique formulations. Their customer service is legendary—owners are known to answer calls personally and even provide samples free of charge. If you're looking for a supplier with heart and a commitment to community, Nature's Bounty is a gem.
8. BioActive Nutrients (Charlotte, NC)
BioActive Nutrients is a heavyweight in the nutraceutical industry, known for producing high-potency extracts for dietary supplements. Their milk thistle extract is a top seller, standardized to 80% silymarin with a focus on bioavailability—the ability of the body to absorb and use the nutrients. They've developed a patented delivery system called "BioPerine Complex" that combines milk thistle with black pepper extract (piperine) to enhance absorption by up to 30%, a major selling point for supplement brands looking to boost efficacy.
Founded in 1999, BioActive has a sprawling facility in Charlotte that includes in-house testing labs, production lines, and warehousing. They're certified GMP, NSF, and Halal, catering to a wide range of dietary needs and regulatory requirements. Their milk thistle extract is vegan, gluten-free, and free from common allergens, making it suitable for a broad consumer base. They also offer kosher-certified options for clients targeting that market.
BioActive primarily serves mid-to-large supplement companies, with MOQs starting at 25kg for bulk powder. However, they recently launched a "small-batch program" for emerging brands, offering lower MOQs (5kg) with a slight price premium. They provide extensive marketing support, including clinical research on their BioPerine Complex and ready-to-use product labels. Their sales team is highly knowledgeable about regulatory trends, helping clients navigate FDA labeling requirements and health claims. If you're in the supplement industry and prioritize bioavailability, BioActive Nutrients should be at the top of your list.
9. Global Extract Traders (Houston, TX)
As their name suggests, Global Extract Traders (GET) is all about scale. Based in Houston, this wholesaler specializes in bulk milk thistle extract, catering to large manufacturers, food processors, and international buyers who need tons of product at competitive prices. They work with a network of manufacturers across the USA to source the best milk thistle extract, then negotiate bulk pricing to pass savings on to their clients.
GET offers a wide range of milk thistle products, from conventional powder extract (80% silymarin) to organic liquid extract and even raw milk thistle seed powder for companies that prefer to do their own extraction. They're particularly strong in the food and beverage sector, supplying extract for energy drinks, protein bars, and functional snacks. Their extracts are heat-stable and shelf-stable, making them suitable for high-temperature processing like baking or pasteurization.
What makes GET a go-to for large buyers is their logistics expertise. They have warehouses in Houston, Chicago, and Los Angeles, allowing for fast shipping to major US markets, and they also handle international shipping to over 50 countries, including Canada, Australia, and Brazil. Their MOQs are high (starting at 500kg for bulk orders), but their prices are some of the lowest in the industry. They also offer long-term supply contracts with fixed pricing, protecting clients from market fluctuations. While they don't provide the same level of hand-holding as smaller suppliers, their reliability and cost-effectiveness make them a top choice for large-scale operations.
10. EcoHerbals (Denver, CO)
Rounding out our list is EcoHerbals, a Denver-based manufacturer with a focus on sustainable and ethical sourcing. Founded in 2012 by a team of environmental scientists, EcoHerbals is on a mission to prove that botanical extracts can be both effective and eco-friendly. Their milk thistle extract is certified by the Rainforest Alliance, ensuring that the farms they source from follow sustainable practices that protect biodiversity and support local communities.
EcoHerbals offers both organic and conventional milk thistle extracts, with a focus on cold-pressed powder extracts that retain more of the plant's natural compounds. They also produce a unique "zero-waste" extract, where the byproducts of extraction are repurposed into animal feed or fertilizer, minimizing environmental impact. This commitment to circular economy has earned them recognition from sustainability organizations and eco-conscious brands alike.
While they're a mid-sized company, EcoHerbals has made a name for itself by prioritizing transparency. They publish annual sustainability reports detailing their carbon footprint, water usage, and social impact, and they invite clients to tour their facility to see their processes firsthand. Their MOQs start at 10kg for bulk orders, but they offer discounts for clients who commit to renewable energy shipping or carbon offset programs. Their customer base includes natural product brands, eco-friendly cosmetics companies, and even hospitals looking for sustainable supplements. If sustainability is a core value for your business, EcoHerbals is the supplier for you.
| Supplier Name | Location | Key Strengths | Certifications | MOQ (Standard Extract) | Specialties |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Herbal Essence Labs | Los Angeles, CA | Vertical integration, traceability | GMP, FDA-registered, Organic | 1kg | Bulk, organic, custom formulations |
| PureNature Extracts | Chicago, IL | Sustainability, cold-extraction | USDA Organic, EU Organic, Non-GMO | 5kg | High-potency silymarin, cosmetic liquids |
| GreenField Botanicals | Portland, OR | Pharmaceutical-grade, CO2 extraction | ISO 9001, ISO 13485, GMP | 25kg | High-concentration silymarin (90-95%) |
| Midwest Extract Co. | Kansas City, MO | Affordability, fast turnaround | GMP | 10kg | Food/beverage extracts, bulk pricing |
| Coastal Natural Ingredients | Savannah, GA | Cosmetic formulations, microencapsulation | Ecocert, GMP | 1kg | Alcohol-free, skincare-specific extracts |
| Harvest Moon Trading | Minneapolis, MN | International logistics, manufacturer network | Varies by partner (GMP, Organic) | 10kg | Wholesale, global sourcing |
| Nature's Bounty Extracts | Austin, TX | Small-batch, local sourcing | USDA Organic | 500g | Artisanal extracts, custom blends |
| BioActive Nutrients | Charlotte, NC | Bioavailability, clinical research | GMP, NSF, Halal, Kosher | 25kg (5kg small-batch) | Nutraceuticals, high-absorption extracts |
| Global Extract Traders | Houston, TX | Bulk pricing, international shipping | GMP (varies by manufacturer) | 500kg | Large-scale bulk orders, food processing |
| EcoHerbals | Denver, CO | Sustainability, zero-waste | Rainforest Alliance, Organic | 10kg | Eco-friendly extracts, renewable practices |
Choosing the right milk thistle extract supplier is a decision that can impact everything from your product's efficacy to your brand's reputation. Whether you're prioritizing organic sourcing, bulk pricing, cosmetic-specific formulations, or sustainability, the suppliers on this list offer something for every need. Remember, the best supplier for you depends on your unique goals: a small startup might thrive with Nature's Bounty's low MOQs, while a large pharmaceutical company might prefer GreenField's high-concentration extracts and strict certifications.
Before making a decision, we recommend requesting samples and COAs from your top choices to test quality firsthand. Don't hesitate to ask questions about sourcing practices, testing protocols, and customer support—reputable suppliers will be happy to provide detailed answers. With the right partner, you can feel confident that your milk thistle extract is pure, potent, and ready to make a difference in your products. Here's to finding your perfect match!



