Nestled in the heart of South America, Bolivia is a country brimming with botanical treasures. From the high-altitude plains of the Andes to the lush valleys of Santa Cruz, its diverse ecosystems nurture plants that have been used for centuries in traditional medicine. Among these, milk thistle stands out—a humble herb whose seeds hold a powerful secret: silymarin. Renowned for its liver-supporting properties, silymarin has become a cornerstone in supplements, pharmaceuticals, and even skincare products worldwide. But behind every bottle of milk thistle extract or silymarin supplement is a network of dedicated suppliers, manufacturers, and traders working tirelessly to bring this botanical wonder from Bolivia's fields to global markets.
For businesses and buyers seeking reliable sources of high-quality silymarin, Bolivia has emerged as a key player. Its commitment to sustainable farming, rigorous quality control, and expertise in botanical extraction has made it a go-to destination for bulk botanical extracts. Whether you're a pharmaceutical company in need of pharmaceutical-grade silymarin, a supplement brand looking for organic-certified ingredients, or a wholesaler searching for cost-effective bulk supplies, Bolivia's top silymarin suppliers offer solutions tailored to every need. In this article, we'll dive into the stories, strengths, and specialties of the top 10 silymarin suppliers, manufacturers, wholesalers, and traders in Bolivia—helping you navigate the vibrant world of botanical extracts with confidence.
At a Glance: Bolivia's Leading Silymarin Suppliers
| Company Name | Location | Product Focus | Key Certifications | Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ) | Standout Strength |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Andean Silymarin Extracts | Cochabamba | Silymarin (80-95% purity), milk thistle extract | ISO 9001, GMP, Organic EU/USDA | 500 kg | Vertical integration (farms to extraction) |
| Bolivia Botanical Traders | Santa Cruz | Bulk silymarin, milk thistle powder, botanical extracts | ISO 22000, Kosher, Halal | 100 kg | Global logistics network |
| Green Valley Extracts Ltd. | La Paz | Pharmaceutical-grade silymarin, custom formulations | FDA-registered, cGMP | 200 kg | State-of-the-art R&D lab |
| Altiplano Organics | Oruro | Organic silymarin, wild-harvested milk thistle | USDA Organic, Fair Trade | 50 kg | Sustainable wild-harvesting practices |
| Amazon Bioactive Ingredients | Beni | Silymarin complex, milk thistle extract for cosmetics | ECOCERT, COSMOS | 150 kg | Specialized in cosmetic-grade extracts |
| Andes Bulk Botanicals | Tarija | Industrial-grade silymarin, bulk botanical extracts | ISO 14001, GMP | 1000 kg | Cost-effective large-scale production |
| Valley Pharma Extracts | Sucre | Pharma-grade silymarin, standardized extracts | WHO-GMP, ISO 13485 | 300 kg | Strict quality testing protocols |
| Herbal Harvest Bolivia | Potosí | Organic milk thistle extract, silymarin powder | EU Organic, JAS | 75 kg | Direct partnerships with small-scale farmers |
| BioExtracts Bolivia | Cochabamba | Silymarin for supplements, nutraceutical blends | NSF, GMP | 100 kg | Custom blend formulation services |
| South American Botanicals | Santa Cruz | Export-focused silymarin, bulk milk thistle extract | FDA-registered, FSSAI | 250 kg | Fast lead times for international orders |
In-Depth: Bolivia's Top Silymarin Suppliers
1. Andean Silymarin Extracts (Cochabamba)
Tucked away in the fertile valleys of Cochabamba, Andean Silymarin Extracts isn't just a supplier—it's a story of passion for plants. Founded in 2005 by a team of botanists and agronomists, the company started with a simple mission: to harness Bolivia's unique climate to grow the highest-quality milk thistle. Today, they own over 500 acres of organic-certified farms where milk thistle thrives at altitudes of 2,500 meters, benefiting from intense sunlight and mineral-rich soil that boost silymarin content naturally.
What sets Andean Silymarin apart is its vertical integration. From planting the seeds to extracting the silymarin, every step happens in-house. Their extraction facility, equipped with supercritical CO2 technology, ensures that the silymarin retains its potency—no harsh solvents, no compromises. The result? Silymarin with purity levels ranging from 80% to 95%, perfect for pharmaceutical and high-end supplement brands. "We don't just sell extracts; we sell trust," says Maria Alvarez, the company's quality control manager. "Our clients know that when they order from us, they're getting silymarin that's been nurtured from seed to powder."
Certifications are a point of pride here: ISO 9001 for quality management, GMP for manufacturing, and both EU and USDA Organic certifications. Their MOQ of 500 kg might seem steep, but for large-scale buyers, the consistency and traceability are worth it. Andean Silymarin also prioritizes sustainability—their farms use drip irrigation to conserve water, and waste from extraction is repurposed as fertilizer. It's no wonder they've become a preferred supplier for European and North American pharmaceutical companies.
2. Bolivia Botanical Traders (Santa Cruz)
If Andean Silymarin is about control from farm to finish, Bolivia Botanical Traders is about connection—linking Bolivia's best growers with the world. Based in Santa Cruz, the country's agricultural hub, this family-owned business has been trading botanical extracts for over three decades. What started as a small operation selling dried herbs has evolved into a global player, with silymarin as one of their flagship products.
"We work with 20+ small-scale farms across Bolivia, each specializing in milk thistle," explains Juan Fernandez, the company's founder. "This network lets us source large volumes while supporting local communities." Bolivia Botanical Traders doesn't own farms, but they set strict standards: all milk thistle must be grown without synthetic pesticides, and farmers are paid a fair price. The company's strength lies in its logistics—they've built partnerships with shipping lines and customs brokers to ensure that bulk silymarin reaches clients in Europe, Asia, and North America in under 10 days. "Time is money in this industry," Juan adds. "Our clients love that they can place an order on Monday and have it in their warehouse by the end of the week."
Their product range includes bulk silymarin powder (70-85% purity), milk thistle extract in liquid and powder forms, and even blended botanical extracts for supplements. Certifications include ISO 22000 (food safety), Kosher, and Halal, making them a versatile choice for diverse markets. With an MOQ of just 100 kg, they're accessible to small and medium businesses too. Whether you're a startup supplement brand or a multinational food manufacturer, Bolivia Botanical Traders prides itself on flexibility—offering custom packaging, private labeling, and even sample sizes for testing.
3. Green Valley Extracts Ltd. (La Paz)
La Paz, Bolivia's capital, is known for its dramatic mountain backdrop—and for Green Valley Extracts, a company that's redefining pharmaceutical-grade silymarin. Founded in 2010 by a team of ex-pharmaceutical executives, Green Valley set out to create a supplier that meets the strictest industry standards. Today, their facility in La Paz is FDA-registered and cGMP-certified, with a focus on producing silymarin for prescription medications and high-potency supplements.
What makes Green Valley unique is its investment in research and development. Their in-house lab is staffed with chemists who specialize in phytochemistry, constantly testing and refining extraction methods. "We were the first in Bolivia to achieve 95% pure silymarin using ethanol extraction," says Dr. Carlos Mendez, head of R&D. "It's a game-changer for pharmaceutical clients who need consistent active ingredients." They also offer custom formulations, working with clients to develop silymarin blends tailored to specific needs—whether it's for liver support supplements or topical creams.
Quality control is rigorous here. Every batch of silymarin undergoes HPLC testing to verify purity, and stability testing to ensure shelf life. Certifications include FDA registration, cGMP, and compliance with the European Pharmacopoeia. Their MOQ is 200 kg, which reflects their focus on mid-to-large pharmaceutical orders. Green Valley also prides itself on transparency—clients can request batch reports, farm audits, and even virtual tours of their facility. For buyers who can't compromise on quality, this level of detail is invaluable.
4. Altiplano Organics (Oruro)
High in the Andes, where the air is thin and the traditions run deep, Altiplano Organics is keeping Bolivia's wild-harvesting heritage alive. Based in Oruro, a city known for its indigenous communities, this supplier specializes in organic silymarin sourced from wild milk thistle that grows naturally in the region's mountain slopes. "Wild-harvested milk thistle has a higher silymarin content because it's adapted to survive harsh conditions," explains Elena Quispe, a local herbalist and Altiplano's sustainability director. "Our collectors—mostly Quechua farmers—know exactly when to harvest the seeds, ensuring maximum potency."
Altiplano's approach is rooted in respect—for the land and the people who tend to it. They're certified Fair Trade, meaning that a portion of every sale goes back to the communities to fund schools and healthcare. Their silymarin is also USDA Organic certified, with no pesticides or synthetic fertilizers in sight. The extraction process is gentle too—using cold-press methods to preserve the silymarin's natural structure. The result is a product with a slightly earthy aroma, beloved by natural supplement brands and herbalists.
With an MOQ of just 50 kg, Altiplano is ideal for small-batch buyers or brands focused on sustainability stories. Their silymarin purity ranges from 70% to 85%, and they also offer whole milk thistle extract powder for those who prefer a full-spectrum product. While their production capacity isn't as large as some competitors, the uniqueness of their wild-harvested silymarin has earned them a loyal following. "Our clients don't just buy from us—they partner with us to support indigenous communities," Elena says. "That's the Altiplano difference."
5. Amazon Bioactive Ingredients (Beni)
While most silymarin suppliers focus on the Andes, Amazon Bioactive Ingredients is carving a niche in the Amazon basin. Based in Beni, a region known for its rainforests, this innovative company has found a way to grow milk thistle in the Amazon's fertile lowlands—proving that silymarin production isn't limited to high altitudes. But their real claim to fame? Specializing in silymarin for the cosmetics industry.
"Silymarin isn't just for livers—it's a powerhouse for skin," says Sofia Reyes, the company's cosmetic science consultant. "It has antioxidant properties that fight free radicals, and it helps soothe inflammation. We've developed a water-soluble silymarin extract that blends seamlessly into serums, creams, and masks." Amazon Bioactive's cosmetic-grade silymarin is gentle, non-irritating, and certified ECOCERT and COSMOS, meeting the strict standards of natural beauty brands.
Their extraction facility uses ultrasonic technology, which reduces processing time and preserves the silymarin's bioactivity. They also offer custom concentrations—from 50% to 80% purity—to suit different cosmetic formulations. With an MOQ of 150 kg, they cater to mid-sized cosmetic manufacturers, and their fast turnaround times (typically 2 weeks for production) make them a favorite for brands launching new products. Beyond silymarin, they also produce other botanical extracts like acai and camu camu, allowing clients to source multiple ingredients from one supplier. It's this focus on innovation and customer service that has put Amazon Bioactive on the map for global beauty brands.
6. Andes Bulk Botanicals (Tarija)
For buyers who need silymarin in massive quantities, Andes Bulk Botanicals is the answer. Located in Tarija, a region with sprawling agricultural plains, this supplier specializes in industrial-grade silymarin, with production capacity exceeding 50 tons per month. "We're all about scale," says Roberto Gonzalez, the company's operations manager. "When a client needs 10,000 kg of silymarin in a month, we deliver."
Andes Bulk sources milk thistle from large commercial farms in Tarija and neighboring Argentina, ensuring a steady supply. Their extraction facility is equipped with state-of-the-art solvent extraction lines, allowing for high-volume production at a lower cost. The silymarin they produce has a purity of 70-80%, making it ideal for industrial applications like animal feed supplements or budget-friendly human supplements. While they don't offer the ultra-high purity of pharmaceutical suppliers, their price point is hard to beat.
Certifications include ISO 14001 for environmental management and GMP for manufacturing, ensuring that even at scale, quality isn't compromised. Their MOQ of 1000 kg is targeted at large distributors and manufacturers, but they also offer flexible payment terms to ease the burden of bulk orders. Andes Bulk is also committed to reducing its carbon footprint—their facility runs on solar power, and they've invested in energy-efficient extraction equipment. For buyers prioritizing cost and quantity, Andes Bulk Botanicals is a reliable workhorse in Bolivia's silymarin market.
7. Valley Pharma Extracts (Sucre)
Sucre, Bolivia's constitutional capital, is home to Valley Pharma Extracts, a supplier that takes precision to the next level. Focused exclusively on pharmaceutical-grade ingredients, Valley Pharma produces silymarin that meets the strictest regulatory standards—think FDA, EMA, and WHO requirements. "Our silymarin is used in prescription drugs and high-potency supplements, so there's no room for error," says Dr. Miguel Torres, the company's quality assurance director.
Their facility is WHO-GMP certified, with cleanrooms that rival those in Europe and the U.S. Every step of production is documented, from the sourcing of milk thistle seeds (which are tested for heavy metals and pesticides) to the final packaging. They use a proprietary extraction method that removes impurities, resulting in silymarin with a purity of 90-95%. "We test each batch 12 times before it leaves our facility," Dr. Torres adds. "HPLC, FTIR, microbial testing—you name it, we do it."
Valley Pharma's MOQ is 200 kg, and their lead times are longer (4-6 weeks) due to the extensive testing, but for pharmaceutical clients, the wait is necessary. They also offer regulatory support, helping clients navigate the paperwork required to import silymarin into different countries. With clients in over 30 countries, including Japan and Australia, Valley Pharma has built a reputation for reliability in the highly regulated pharmaceutical industry.
8. Herbal Harvest Bolivia (Potosí)
In Potosí, a city once known for its silver mines, Herbal Harvest Bolivia is mining a different kind of treasure: organic milk thistle. This supplier works directly with small-scale farmers in the surrounding highlands, providing them with training and organic seeds to grow milk thistle sustainably. "We believe that good extract starts with good farming," says Pedro Castillo, Herbal Harvest's founder. "By supporting our farmers, we ensure a steady supply of high-quality milk thistle."
Herbal Harvest's silymarin is certified EU Organic and JAS (Japanese Organic), making it popular in markets that prioritize organic credentials. They offer both standardized silymarin (80% purity) and full-spectrum milk thistle extract, which includes other beneficial compounds like flavonoids. The extraction process uses ethanol, and they avoid heat to preserve the extract's natural properties. Their MOQ of 75 kg is lower than many competitors, making them accessible to small and medium supplement brands.
What really sets Herbal Harvest apart is their commitment to education. They host workshops for farmers on organic farming practices and even invite clients to visit the farms to see the process firsthand. "Transparency isn't just a buzzword for us," Pedro says. "It's how we build trust." Their silymarin is also reasonably priced, thanks to their direct relationships with farmers (cutting out middlemen). For brands with a focus on organic, ethical sourcing, Herbal Harvest Bolivia is a standout choice.
9. BioExtracts Bolivia (Cochabamba)
Cochabamba isn't just home to Andean Silymarin—BioExtracts Bolivia is another key player in this botanical-rich city. What makes them unique? Their focus on custom nutraceutical blends that include silymarin. "Many clients don't want just silymarin—they want a blend with other liver-supporting ingredients like turmeric or dandelion," explains Lucia Gomez, BioExtracts' formulation specialist. "We take the guesswork out of blending, creating pre-mixed powders that are ready to encapsulate or tablet."
BioExtracts works with a network of local growers and extraction facilities to source high-quality ingredients. Their silymarin is typically 80% purity, and they offer blends in various ratios—for example, silymarin + artichoke extract for enhanced liver support, or silymarin + vitamin E for antioxidant benefits. They also provide bulk silymarin for clients who prefer to blend their own formulas. Certifications include NSF (for dietary supplements) and GMP, ensuring that their blends are safe and consistent.
With an MOQ of 100 kg, BioExtracts caters to supplement brands of all sizes. Their turnaround times for custom blends are impressively fast—usually 2-3 weeks—and they offer free samples so clients can test the product before committing. "We see ourselves as partners, not just suppliers," Lucia says. "If a client has an idea for a new liver supplement, we help bring it to life." It's this collaborative approach that has made them a favorite among startup supplement brands looking to differentiate themselves.
10. South American Botanicals (Santa Cruz)
Rounding out our list is South American Botanicals, a Santa Cruz-based supplier with a global vision. Founded in 2015, this young company has quickly made a name for itself by focusing on export—specifically, making Bolivia's silymarin accessible to emerging markets in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. "Many suppliers ignore these regions, but we see huge potential there," says Ahmed Patel, the company's export manager.
South American Botanicals works with a network of extraction facilities across Bolivia to ensure a steady supply of silymarin. They offer both bulk silymarin (70-85% purity) and milk thistle extract powder, with competitive pricing tailored to price-sensitive markets. Their certifications include FDA registration (to enter the U.S.) and FSSAI (for India), making them compliant in key export destinations. "We handle all the logistics—from shipping to customs clearance—so our clients don't have to," Ahmed adds. "For buyers in countries with complex import processes, this is a lifesaver."
Their MOQ of 250 kg is flexible, and they offer discounts for repeat orders. South American Botanicals also prides itself on customer service, with multilingual support (English, Spanish, Hindi, Arabic) to cater to their diverse client base. While they may not have the ultra-high purity of pharmaceutical suppliers, their reliability and focus on emerging markets have earned them a loyal following. As silymarin's popularity grows worldwide, South American Botanicals is well-positioned to be a bridge between Bolivia and the next generation of buyers.
Choosing Your Bolivia Silymarin Partner
Bolivia's silymarin suppliers offer something for every buyer—whether you're a pharmaceutical giant needing 95% pure silymarin, a natural supplement brand seeking organic certification, or a cosmetic company looking for skin-loving extracts. From the vertical integration of Andean Silymarin to the custom blends of BioExtracts Bolivia, each supplier brings unique strengths to the table. What unites them all is a commitment to quality, sustainability, and leveraging Bolivia's botanical bounty.
When choosing a supplier, consider your priorities: purity, certifications, MOQ, lead times, and whether you need additional services like blending or logistics support. Don't hesitate to ask for samples, batch reports, or farm tours—reputable suppliers will be happy to provide them. And remember, the best partnerships are built on transparency and shared values. Whether you're sourcing for the first time or looking to switch suppliers, Bolivia's top silymarin experts are ready to help you bring the power of milk thistle to your products.
As the demand for natural ingredients continues to rise, Bolivia's role in the global botanical extracts market is only set to grow. By choosing a supplier from this list, you're not just getting silymarin—you're getting a piece of Bolivia's rich agricultural heritage, nurtured by farmers, scientists, and traders who care about the planet and the people who depend on it. Here's to healthy livers, radiant skin, and successful partnerships—rooted in the heart of South America.
