In the world of natural health and wellness, few ingredients have earned as much trust as silymarin. Derived from the seeds of milk thistle (Silybum marianum), this powerful flavonoid complex is celebrated for its liver-protective properties, making it a staple in supplements, pharmaceuticals, and even skincare products. As demand for natural and plant-based ingredients surges, Albania—with its rich botanical heritage and strategic position at the crossroads of Europe and the Balkans—has emerged as a key player in the global botanical extracts market. For businesses and buyers seeking high-quality silymarin, navigating Albania's supplier landscape can feel overwhelming. That's why we've curated this guide to the top 10 silymarin suppliers, manufacturers, wholesalers, and traders in the country. Whether you're looking for pharmaceutical-grade purity, bulk quantities for supplements, or organic-certified options, these Albanian companies stand out for their expertise, reliability, and commitment to quality.
1. AlbanBotanicals Ltd.
Founded in 2005 and based in Tirana, AlbanBotanicals Ltd. has grown from a small family operation to one of Albania's most respected names in botanical extracts. Specializing in milk thistle extract and silymarin, the company prides itself on sustainable sourcing—working directly with local farmers in the fertile plains of the Shkumbin Valley to cultivate organic milk thistle. What sets AlbanBotanicals apart is its dedication to traceability: every batch of silymarin can be traced back to the specific farm and harvest season, giving clients peace of mind about ingredient integrity.
Their product line includes silymarin powder with purity ranging from 80% to 95%, as well as standardized milk thistle extract for use in supplements, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. With a state-of-the-art extraction facility in Tirana, equipped with cold-press and supercritical CO2 extraction technologies, they ensure maximum retention of active compounds. Certifications include GMP, ISO 9001, and organic certification from Ecocert, making them a favorite among European supplement brands and natural skincare companies. Whether you're a small business needing sample sizes or a large manufacturer requiring bulk botanical extracts, AlbanBotanicals offers flexible ordering options and personalized customer service.
2. TiranaHerbs & Extracts
Nestled near the Port of Durres, Albania's busiest shipping hub, TiranaHerbs & Extracts has built its reputation on efficiency and global reach. Established in 2010, this supplier focuses on bulk botanical extracts, with silymarin being one of their flagship products. Their strategic location allows for quick export to markets across Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa, making them a go-to choice for businesses needing reliable, fast delivery.
TiranaHerbs specializes in high-volume orders, offering silymarin powder in 25kg drums and customizable packaging for private-label clients. Their production facility, which spans over 10,000 square meters, operates 24/7 to meet demand, and they maintain a large inventory to ensure short lead times. While they prioritize quantity, quality isn't compromised: their silymarin undergoes rigorous testing for heavy metals, pesticides, and microbial contamination, with each batch accompanied by a detailed COA (Certificate of Analysis). ISO 9001 and HACCP certifications further underscore their commitment to safety. Beyond silymarin, they also supply other botanical extracts like green tea and turmeric, making them a convenient one-stop shop for supplement manufacturers.
3. BalkanSilymarin Trading
For pharmaceutical-grade silymarin, BalkanSilymarin Trading is a name that resonates with precision and expertise. Based in Elbasan, a city known for its pharmaceutical manufacturing cluster, this company has carved a niche in producing ultra-pure silymarin for the global pharmaceutical industry. Founded in 2012 by a team of biochemists and pharmacists, BalkanSilymarin set out to meet the strictest regulatory standards, and today, their products are compliant with EU Pharmacopoeia (EP) and USP monographs.
Their core offering is pharmaceutical-grade silymarin with a purity of 95%+, characterized by low impurity levels and consistent potency. This makes it ideal for use in liver support medications and clinical formulations. To achieve this, they source milk thistle seeds from select regions in northern Albania, where the cooler climate and mineral-rich soil enhance the plant's active compound content. Their extraction process uses ethanol-water solvent systems, followed by multiple purification steps, including chromatography, to isolate silymarin isomers (silybin, silydianin, silychristin). With a dedicated quality control lab staffed by PhD-level chemists, they conduct over 20 tests per batch, from identity to stability. BalkanSilymarin also offers custom formulations, working closely with pharmaceutical companies to develop silymarin-based APIs (Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients). While their minimum order quantities are higher, their reliability and regulatory compliance make them a trusted partner for big pharma and generic drug manufacturers.
4. Vlora Natural Extracts
Located on Albania's sun-drenched Adriatic coast, Vlora Natural Extracts brings a unique blend of traditional herbalism and modern technology to silymarin production. Founded in 2008 by a family of herbalists with generations of knowledge in plant medicine, the company initially focused on local markets before expanding to international clients, particularly in the cosmetics and natural skincare sectors. What makes Vlora stand out is their emphasis on silymarin's skin benefits—they were among the first in Albania to market silymarin extract specifically for anti-aging and antioxidant skincare products.
Their product range includes both water-soluble and oil-soluble silymarin extracts, designed to integrate seamlessly into serums, creams, and masks. These extracts are prized for their ability to neutralize free radicals, reduce inflammation, and support collagen production—qualities that have made them popular with clean beauty brands. Vlora also offers organic silymarin, certified by the Soil Association, sourced from wild-harvested milk thistle in the Albanian Alps (with proper sustainability certifications to ensure ecological balance). In addition to skincare, their silymarin is used in health supplements, particularly those targeting liver detox and digestive health. With a focus on small-batch production, they ensure freshness and potency, and their in-house R&D team regularly collaborates with cosmetic formulators to develop new silymarin-based ingredients. For businesses looking to tap into the growing demand for natural skincare actives, Vlora Natural Extracts offers a compelling combination of heritage and innovation.
5. Shkodra Botanical Solutions
Shkodra Botanical Solutions, a family-owned business since 1998, embodies the spirit of Albanian entrepreneurship and dedication to quality. Based in Shkodra, a historic city in the northwest near Lake Shkodra, the company has deep roots in the region's agricultural community, working with over 50 local farmers to source milk thistle and other botanicals. Their mission is simple: to make high-quality botanical extracts accessible to small and medium-sized businesses, which is why they offer flexible MOQs (Minimum Order Quantities) and transparent pricing.
Shkodra's silymarin product line caters to diverse needs: from 80% purity powder for supplements to standardized milk thistle extract for functional foods and beverages. They also produce a unique "whole-plant" extract, which includes other beneficial compounds from the milk thistle plant (not just the seeds), appealing to brands marketing holistic wellness products. What clients appreciate most is their hands-on approach—founder Gjergji Dema personally oversees every step, from seed selection to extraction, and is known for taking client calls to discuss specific requirements. Certifications include GMP and organic certification from the Albanian Organic Association, and they recently added Kosher certification to expand into new markets. With a loyal customer base across Europe and the Balkans, Shkodra Botanical Solutions has built its success on trust, consistency, and a genuine passion for botanical extracts.
6. Elbasan Extracts Co.
When it comes to large-scale manufacturing and competitive pricing, Elbasan Extracts Co. leads the pack in Albania. Established in 2005 and located in Elbasan's industrial zone, this company operates one of the country's largest extraction facilities, with a production capacity of over 500 metric tons of botanical extracts annually. While they produce a wide range of extracts, silymarin remains their top-selling product, thanks to their ability to deliver bulk quantities at attractive price points.
Elbasan Extracts sources milk thistle seeds from across Albania and neighboring Macedonia, leveraging economies of scale to keep costs low. Their production process is highly automated, using continuous extraction systems to ensure efficiency and consistency. The result is silymarin powder with a purity of 85-90%, suitable for dietary supplements, animal feed additives, and industrial applications. They also offer custom blending services, allowing clients to mix silymarin with other extracts like turmeric or ginger for specialized formulations. Certifications include GMP, ISO 22000 (food safety), and Halal, making them a preferred supplier for international brands with large-scale needs. While they focus on volume, they don't skimp on quality control—their lab is equipped with HPLC and GC-MS instruments to test for potency and contaminants. For businesses requiring bulk botanical extracts without compromising on basic quality standards, Elbasan Extracts Co. is a reliable and cost-effective choice.
7. Korca Herbals
Korca Herbals, based in the mountainous region of Korca in southeastern Albania, is a testament to the power of terroir. This small-batch producer specializes in wild-harvested milk thistle, collected from the pristine meadows and rocky slopes of the Korca Highlands. The unique climate here—hot summers, cold winters, and mineral-rich soil—imparts a distinct profile to the milk thistle, resulting in silymarin with higher potency and a richer phytochemical profile compared to cultivated varieties.
Founded in 2015 by herbalist Luljeta Pojani, Korca Herbals embraces an artisanal approach: harvests are done by hand to avoid damaging the plants, and extraction is carried out using traditional maceration methods combined with gentle heat, preserving delicate compounds. Their flagship product is "Mountain Silymarin," a 90% pure powder with a naturally high concentration of silybin (the most active isomer of silymarin). This product has gained a cult following among naturopaths and high-end supplement brands, who value its unique origin story and superior quality. While their production capacity is smaller than larger manufacturers, Korca Herbals prioritizes sustainability—they work with local harvesters to ensure wild populations are not overexploited, and a portion of their profits goes toward reforestation projects in the region. For businesses seeking a premium, story-driven silymarin product, Korca Herbals offers a compelling narrative and exceptional quality.
8. Berat Pharma Ingredients
Berat Pharma Ingredients, located in the historic city of Berat (a UNESCO World Heritage site), is a supplier that bridges the gap between pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals. Established in 2018, this young company has quickly made a name for itself by focusing on custom silymarin formulations for clients in the pharmaceutical, supplement, and functional food industries. Their team of formulation scientists works closely with clients to develop tailored solutions, from microencapsulated silymarin for better bioavailability to sustained-release powders for controlled-dosage products.
Berat Pharma's silymarin is sourced from certified organic farms in central Albania, and their extraction facility is designed to meet the strict standards of the pharmaceutical industry, with cleanrooms and automated processes to minimize contamination risk. They offer a range of purities, from 80% to 95%, and can modify particle size, solubility, and stability to suit specific applications. For example, their water-dispersible silymarin is popular in beverage supplements, while their liposomal silymarin is used in skincare serums for enhanced skin penetration. Certifications include GMP, ISO 13485 (medical device quality), and compliance with FDA regulations, making them a trusted partner for clients targeting the U.S. and EU markets. With a focus on innovation and technical support, Berat Pharma Ingredients is ideal for businesses looking to develop cutting-edge silymarin-based products.
9. Gjirokastra Natural Products
Gjirokastra Natural Products, based in the southern city of Gjirokastra, has built its reputation on reliable exports and global logistics. Founded in 2001, this company has established a strong network of shipping partners, allowing them to deliver silymarin and other botanical extracts to over 30 countries, from Australia to Brazil. Their focus on international markets has made them adept at navigating complex import regulations, including customs documentation, phytosanitary certificates, and language support for non-English-speaking clients.
Their silymarin product line includes both powder and liquid extracts, with options for standardization (e.g., 80% silymarin) and custom blends. They also offer value-added services like private labeling and packaging design, making it easier for clients to launch their own brands. Gjirokastra sources milk thistle seeds from across Albania, ensuring a consistent supply year-round, and their extraction facility uses energy-efficient equipment to reduce environmental impact. Certifications include GMP, ISO 9001, and organic certification from IMO (Institute for Marketecology), a globally recognized body. With a dedicated export team fluent in English, French, and German, Gjirokastra Natural Products excels at making international sourcing simple and stress-free, earning them repeat business from clients worldwide.
10. Saranda Bulk Extracts
Rounding out our list is Saranda Bulk Extracts, a supplier that lives up to its name by specializing in large-volume orders of silymarin and other botanical extracts. Located in Saranda, a coastal city in southern Albania with easy access to the Ionian Sea, this company leverages its proximity to major ports to offer competitive shipping rates for bulk cargo. Founded in 2010, Saranda Bulk Extracts has become a favorite among international traders and manufacturers seeking cost-effective, high-quality silymarin in quantities of 100kg or more.
Their silymarin is sourced from a network of contract farmers in southern Albania, and their extraction process is optimized for efficiency, using solvent extraction followed by spray-drying to produce a fine, free-flowing powder. Purity levels range from 70% to 90%, with 85% being their most popular grade for dietary supplements and animal health products. Saranda Bulk Extracts prides itself on transparency: they provide detailed cost breakdowns, so clients understand exactly what they're paying for, and offer discounts for long-term contracts. While they don't specialize in organic or pharmaceutical-grade products, their consistent quality and competitive pricing make them a solid choice for businesses with high-volume needs. With a focus on reliability and on-time delivery, Saranda Bulk Extracts has earned a reputation as a dependable partner in the global botanical extracts market.
Comparison of Top Silymarin Suppliers in Albania
| Company Name | Location | Key Products | Certifications | Minimum Order | Target Market |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AlbanBotanicals Ltd. | Tirana | Organic silymarin (80-95%), milk thistle extract | GMP, ISO 9001, Ecocert Organic | 1kg | Supplements, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals |
| TiranaHerbs & Extracts | Durres | Bulk silymarin powder, standardized extracts | ISO 9001, HACCP | 25kg | Bulk supplement manufacturers, traders |
| BalkanSilymarin Trading | Elbasan | Pharmaceutical-grade silymarin (95%+) | GMP, EU Pharmacopoeia, USP | 50kg | Pharmaceutical industry, clinical formulations |
| Vlora Natural Extracts | Vlora | Skincare-grade silymarin, organic extracts | Soil Association Organic, GMP | 5kg | Cosmetics, natural skincare, supplements |
| Shkodra Botanical Solutions | Shkodra | Whole-plant milk thistle extract, silymarin powder | Albanian Organic Association, GMP | 2kg | Small to medium supplement brands, local markets |
| Elbasan Extracts Co. | Elbasan | Bulk silymarin (70-90%), custom blends | ISO 22000, Halal, GMP | 100kg | Large-scale manufacturers, animal feed |
| Korca Herbals | Korca | Wild-harvested silymarin, artisanal extracts | Sustainable harvesting certification, GMP | 1kg | Premium supplements, naturopaths, clean beauty |
| Berat Pharma Ingredients | Berat | Custom silymarin formulations, microencapsulated extracts | ISO 13485, FDA compliant, GMP | 10kg | Pharmaceuticals, functional foods, R&D |
| Gjirokastra Natural Products | Gjirokastra | Export-grade silymarin powder and liquid extracts | IMO Organic, ISO 9001, GMP | 20kg | International traders, global supplement brands |
| Saranda Bulk Extracts | Saranda | High-volume silymarin (70-90%) | GMP, ISO 9001 | 100kg | Bulk traders, large manufacturers, animal health |
How to Choose the Right Silymarin Supplier in Albania
With so many options available, selecting the right silymarin supplier can feel daunting. Here are key factors to consider to ensure you find a partner that aligns with your business needs:
1. Certifications and Quality Standards
Certifications are non-negotiable when it comes to botanical extracts, especially if you're targeting regulated markets like the EU or U.S. Look for suppliers with GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) certification, which ensures production processes meet strict quality guidelines. For organic products, certifications from bodies like Ecocert, Soil Association, or the Albanian Organic Association are essential. Pharmaceutical clients should prioritize suppliers compliant with EU Pharmacopoeia or USP standards, while food and cosmetic brands may need HACCP or ISO 22000 certification.
2. Silymarin Purity and Potency
Silymarin purity can range from 70% to 95%, and the right choice depends on your application. Pharmaceutical and high-end supplements typically require 90%+ purity, while functional foods or animal feed may use lower grades. Ask suppliers for a Certificate of Analysis (COA) for recent batches, which should detail purity, active isomer content (like silybin), and contaminant levels (heavy metals, pesticides, microbes). Reputable suppliers will provide this documentation willingly.
3. Sourcing and Sustainability
The quality of silymarin starts with the source. Inquire about where the supplier sources milk thistle—Albania's diverse regions offer different terroirs, which can affect potency. Look for suppliers with transparent sourcing practices, such as partnerships with local farmers or wild-harvesting certifications (to ensure ecological sustainability). Companies that can trace their ingredients back to the farm demonstrate a commitment to quality and ethics.
4. Production Capacity and Lead Times
Consider your volume needs: small businesses may require low MOQs (Minimum Order Quantities), while large manufacturers need suppliers with the capacity to deliver bulk botanical extracts consistently. Ask about production lead times and inventory levels—suppliers with large inventories can often ship orders faster, which is crucial for meeting tight deadlines. Also, check their export capabilities if you're based outside Albania, including experience with international shipping and customs documentation.
5. Customer Support and Flexibility
A good supplier should act as a partner, not just a vendor. Look for companies that offer technical support, such as help with formulation or regulatory compliance. Flexibility is also key—can they accommodate custom orders, like specific particle sizes or packaging? Read reviews or ask for client references to gauge their responsiveness and reliability.
Conclusion: Albania's Growing Role in the Global Silymarin Market
Albania's rich botanical heritage, combined with a new generation of innovative suppliers, has positioned the country as a rising star in the global silymarin market. From the organic farms of the Shkumbin Valley to the pharmaceutical hubs of Elbasan, the suppliers featured here offer a diverse range of products to meet every need—whether you're a small skincare brand seeking premium wild-harvested silymarin or a multinational pharmaceutical company requiring ultra-pure API.
By prioritizing quality, sustainability, and customer collaboration, these Albanian companies are not just selling extracts—they're building lasting partnerships. As the demand for natural and plant-based ingredients continues to grow, Albania's silymarin suppliers are poised to play an even bigger role on the world stage. So, whether you're based in Europe, North America, or beyond, consider exploring what Albania has to offer—you may just find your perfect silymarin partner in this hidden gem of the Balkans.



