If you've ever picked up a liver support supplement, glanced at the skincare aisle, or even explored pharmaceutical ingredients, there's a good chance you've come across silymarin . Derived from the seeds of the milk thistle plant (Silybum marianum), this powerful compound has earned a reputation for its antioxidant properties and liver-protective benefits—making it a staple in everything from health supplements to herbal remedies. But have you ever stopped to wonder where the silymarin in these products actually comes from? In El Salvador, a small but vibrant hub for botanical extracts, a handful of key players are leading the charge in sourcing, processing, and distributing high-quality silymarin to global markets.
El Salvador's fertile soil, moderate climate, and growing focus on sustainable agriculture have made it an unexpected gem in the botanical extract industry. While the country might not be the first name that comes to mind when you think of milk thistle extract production, its suppliers, manufacturers, and traders are gaining attention for their commitment to purity, innovation, and customer-centric service. Whether you're a supplement brand looking for bulk ingredients, a pharmaceutical company in need of pharmaceutical-grade silymarin, or a skincare formulator seeking natural antioxidants, El Salvador's top silymarin specialists have something to offer.
In this guide, we're diving deep into the top 10 silymarin suppliers, manufacturers, wholesalers, and traders in El Salvador. We'll explore their unique strengths, product offerings, and what sets them apart in a competitive market. By the end, you'll have a clear picture of which partner might be the best fit for your needs—whether you prioritize organic certifications, fast delivery, or specialized formulations.
At a Glance: El Salvador's Top Silymarin Providers
| Supplier Name | Type | Key Products | Certifications | Specialty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| El Salvador Natural Extracts Co. | Manufacturer | Silymarin 80%, Milk Thistle Extract Powder | GMP, ISO 9001, Organic (USDA) | Pharmaceutical-grade, bulk orders |
| Silymarin Solutions SA | Wholesaler | Silymarin 60-90%, Liquid Milk Thistle Extract | ISO 22000, Kosher | Fast delivery, small-batch flexibility |
| Green Harvest Botanicals | Manufacturer & Exporter | Organic Silymarin, Milk Thistle Seed Oil | EU Organic, Fair Trade | Sustainable sourcing, cosmetic applications |
| Andes Pure Ingredients | Trader & Distributor | Standardized Silymarin Extracts, Custom Blends | Halal, GMP | Global distribution, custom formulations |
| BioNatura El Salvador | Manufacturer | High-Purity Silymarin (95%), Water-Soluble Extracts | FDA Registered, ISO 14001 | Research-backed, water-soluble formulas |
| Pacific Extract Traders | Trader | Bulk Silymarin Powder, Milk Thistle Extract Tinctures | cGMP, HACCP | Cost-effective bulk orders, global shipping |
| Mountain Herbals Ltd. | Manufacturer | Ethanol-Free Silymarin, Cold-Pressed Extracts | Organic (Ecocert), Non-GMO Project Verified | Clean-label, natural extraction methods |
| Tropical Bioactives | Manufacturer & Research Lab | Silymarin Phytosome, Nano-Encapsulated Extracts | ISO 17025 (Testing), GMP | Innovative delivery systems, high bioavailability |
| Salvadoran Silymarin Works | Wholesaler & OEM Provider | Private-Label Silymarin Supplements, Raw Powder | FDA, cGMP | OEM/ODM services, supplement branding |
| Global Extracts Distribution | Distributor | Silymarin 70-85%, Milk Thistle Extract Capsules (Bulk) | WHO GMP, ISO 9001 | End-to-end supply chain, ready-to-use capsules |
Diving Deeper: The Top 10 Silymarin Providers in El Salvador
1. El Salvador Natural Extracts Co. – The Pharmaceutical-Grade Pioneer
When it comes to precision and purity, El Salvador Natural Extracts Co. (ESNEC) is a name that industry insiders trust. Founded in 2005, this family-owned manufacturer has built its reputation on producing silymarin extracts that meet the strictest pharmaceutical standards. What sets ESNEC apart? Their state-of-the-art facility in San Salvador, equipped with advanced CO2 extraction technology that preserves the integrity of silymarin's active compounds—silybin, silydianin, and silychristin—without using harsh solvents.
ESNEC specializes in high-concentration silymarin (80% and above), making it a top choice for pharmaceutical companies developing liver medications and high-potency supplements. They source their milk thistle seeds from local farmers in the Ahuachapán region, known for its nutrient-rich volcanic soil, and conduct rigorous testing at every stage—from seed to extract. "We visit our farmers monthly to ensure they're using sustainable practices," says Maria Alvarez, ESNEC's Quality Control Manager. "Our goal is to deliver silymarin that's not just pure, but ethically sourced too."
Certifications include GMP, ISO 9001, and USDA Organic, and they're one of the few suppliers in El Salvador with a dedicated R&D team focused on optimizing extraction yields. For businesses needing bulk quantities (minimum order 500kg), ESNEC offers competitive pricing and flexible delivery timelines—often shipping within 7-10 days of order confirmation. Their customer base spans North America, Europe, and Asia, with repeat clients praising their consistency: "We've been working with ESNEC for five years, and their silymarin batch-to-batch variation is almost nonexistent," notes a purchasing manager at a leading US supplement brand.
2. Silymarin Solutions SA – The Wholesaler with Heart
For small to medium-sized businesses that need flexibility, Silymarin Solutions SA is a game-changer. Founded in 2012 by two former pharmaceutical reps, this wholesaler prides itself on making high-quality milk thistle extract accessible to everyone—from startups to established brands. Unlike some suppliers that require massive minimum orders, Silymarin Solutions offers MOQs as low as 10kg, with options for both powder and liquid extracts.
What makes them stand out? Their focus on customer service. "We know how tough it is to launch a new product, so we don't nickel-and-dime our clients," says co-founder Juan Mendez. "Need a sample? We'll send it for free. Have a tight deadline? We'll prioritize your order." Their product range includes silymarin concentrations from 60% to 90%, with liquid extracts tailored for beverages and tinctures—a niche they've dominated in Central America.
Silymarin Solutions sources its raw materials from verified suppliers in Spain and Italy (known for premium milk thistle) and conducts third-party testing through labs in Guatemala City to ensure purity. Certifications include ISO 22000 (food safety) and Kosher, making their extracts suitable for a wide range of applications. Recent expansions have allowed them to add cold-pressed milk thistle seed oil to their lineup, popular among cosmetic formulators for its skin-nourishing properties. Clients rave about their responsiveness: "I reached out on a Friday afternoon with an urgent order, and they had it shipped by Monday," says a natural skincare brand owner in Costa Rica. "You can't put a price on that kind of reliability."
3. Green Harvest Botanicals – The Sustainable Specialist
If sustainability is a core value for your brand, Green Harvest Botanicals should be at the top of your list. This manufacturer and exporter, based in Santa Ana, has made organic and fair-trade practices its mission since day one. "We believe that great extracts start with happy plants and happy farmers," says CEO Carlos Ramirez. "Our milk thistle is grown without synthetic pesticides, and we pay our farmers 20% above market rates to ensure they can invest in their communities."
Green Harvest specializes in organic silymarin (certified by EU Organic and Fair Trade) and cold-pressed milk thistle seed oil, which is rich in omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E—making it a hit in natural skincare products. Their extraction process uses only ethanol and water, avoiding toxic solvents, and they power their facility with solar panels, reducing their carbon footprint by 40%. "We even recycle our extraction byproducts as fertilizer for local farms," Ramirez adds.
While their prices are slightly higher than non-organic competitors, clients say the premium is worth it for the storytelling value: "Our customers love that our silymarin is organic and fair-trade—it's become a key selling point for our supplements," notes a marketing director at a European health brand. Green Harvest exports to over 15 countries, with a strong presence in the UK and Australia, and offers custom labeling for small-batch orders (starting at 50kg). They also provide detailed sustainability reports to clients, helping brands meet their ESG goals.
4. Andes Pure Ingredients – The Global Connector
Andes Pure Ingredients isn't just a trader—it's a bridge between El Salvador's botanical expertise and global markets. Founded in 2010 by a team with decades of experience in international trade, this company partners with local manufacturers to source high-quality silymarin, then distributes it to clients worldwide. "We handle everything from quality control to logistics, so our clients don't have to navigate multiple suppliers," explains Diego Fuentes, Andes Pure's Export Manager.
What makes Andes Pure unique is their ability to create custom blends. Need silymarin combined with other botanical extracts like turmeric or dandelion? They'll formulate it. Want a specific particle size for your supplement tablets? They'll grind it to your specs. Their product range includes standardized silymarin extracts (60-90%), as well as specialty formulations like enteric-coated powders for better absorption. Certifications include Halal and GMP, and they work with labs in Germany and the US for third-party testing.
Andes Pure has built a loyal following in the Middle East and Southeast Asia, thanks to their understanding of regional regulations and cultural preferences. "In some markets, Halal certification is non-negotiable, so we ensure all our products meet those standards," Fuentes says. They also offer flexible payment terms, including letters of credit, to ease international transactions. Clients praise their attention to detail: "We needed a silymarin extract with very low heavy metal levels for the Japanese market, and Andes Pure delivered exactly what we required," reports a pharmaceutical buyer in Tokyo.
5. BioNatura El Salvador – The Innovation Leader
BioNatura El Salvador is where science meets nature. This manufacturer, based in San Miguel, has made a name for itself with cutting-edge silymarin formulations, including high-purity extracts (up to 95%) and water-soluble versions that dissolve easily in beverages and skincare serums. "Traditional silymarin is fat-soluble, which limits its use in certain products," says Dr. Elena Cortez, BioNatura's Head of R&D. "Our water-soluble silymarin changes that—it's perfect for clear liquids and aqueous-based supplements."
Founded in 2015, BioNatura invested heavily in research from the start, partnering with the University of El Salvador to study silymarin's bioavailability. The result? A patented extraction process that increases the compound's solubility by 300% without compromising its efficacy. Their facility is FDA registered and ISO 14001 certified (for environmental management), and they conduct stability testing to ensure their extracts have a shelf life of up to 36 months.
BioNatura's client base includes cosmetic companies and functional beverage brands, with recent collaborations on liver-support drinks and anti-aging serums. "Our water-soluble silymarin is in a top-selling Korean skincare line," Cortez notes proudly. They also offer small-batch production (minimum 100kg) for startups testing new products. While their innovative formulations come at a premium, clients say the versatility is worth it: "Being able to add silymarin to our electrolyte drinks has opened up a whole new market for us," says a product developer at a US beverage company.
6. Pacific Extract Traders – The Cost-Effective Choice
For businesses prioritizing cost without sacrificing quality, Pacific Extract Traders is a go-to. This trader, based in La Libertad, sources bulk silymarin powder and tinctures from manufacturers across El Salvador and passes on savings to clients through volume discounts. "We buy in massive quantities, so we can offer prices that are 10-15% lower than smaller suppliers," says Roberto Gonzalez, Pacific Extract's Founder. "But we never cut corners on testing—every batch is checked for purity and potency."
Pacific Extract specializes in standard silymarin concentrations (70-85%) and milk thistle extract tinctures, popular among herbalists and natural remedy brands. They work with three partner manufacturers, all GMP certified, and have a warehouse in San Salvador with over 50 tons of inventory—meaning they can ship most orders within 48 hours. "We know cash flow is important for small businesses, so we offer net-30 payment terms for repeat clients," Gonzalez adds.
While they don't offer custom formulations, their reliability and low prices have made them a favorite among supplement brands in Latin America and the Caribbean. "We've been ordering from Pacific Extract for three years, and we've never had a delayed shipment," says a supplement brand owner in Honduras. "For bulk powder, they're unbeatable." They also provide free samples (up to 500g) so clients can test quality before committing to large orders—a service that has helped them build trust in competitive markets.
7. Mountain Herbals Ltd. – The Clean-Label Champion
Mountain Herbals Ltd. caters to the growing demand for clean-label products, offering ethanol-free silymarin extracts and cold-pressed options that appeal to health-conscious consumers. Founded in 2012 by a group of herbalists, this manufacturer in Sonsonate uses traditional extraction methods combined with modern quality control to create extracts that are as close to nature as possible. "We avoid synthetic solvents and heat, which can degrade silymarin's active compounds," explains Lucia Gomez, Mountain Herbals' Production Manager. "Our cold-pressed process preserves more of the plant's natural goodness."
Mountain Herbals' product line includes organic silymarin (Ecocert certified), non-GMO extracts, and milk thistle seed powder for use in teas and smoothies. They source their milk thistle from small-scale farmers in the mountainous regions of Morazán, where crops are rain-fed and free from pesticides. "Our farmers are part of our family," Gomez says. "We even provide them with training on organic farming practices."
Their extracts are popular among natural food brands and herbal supplement companies, with clients in the US and Canada praising their transparency: "Mountain Herbals shares their full supply chain with us, from farm to extract, which is crucial for our clean-label marketing," notes a product developer at a Canadian health food company. While their production capacity is smaller than some competitors (maximum 200kg per month), they make up for it with attention to detail and a commitment to traditional methods that resonate with eco-conscious consumers.
8. Tropical Bioactives – The Science-Driven Innovator
Tropical Bioactives isn't just a manufacturer—it's a research lab with a production facility. Founded in 2018 by a team of biochemists, this San Salvador-based company is pushing the boundaries of silymarin technology with innovations like silymarin phytosome (a lipid-based formulation for better absorption) and nano-encapsulated extracts for targeted delivery. "Most silymarin is poorly absorbed by the body—only about 20% makes it into the bloodstream," explains Dr. Rafael Santos, Tropical Bioactives' Chief Scientific Officer. "Our phytosome technology increases bioavailability by up to 500%, making the extract more effective at lower doses."
Tropical Bioactives' facility includes a dedicated R&D lab where they test new formulations and collaborate with universities on clinical studies. Their products are backed by published research, including a 2023 study in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology that demonstrated their phytosome silymarin's liver-protective effects in animal models. Certifications include ISO 17025 (for testing competence) and GMP, and they're currently working on obtaining FDA approval for a pharmaceutical-grade silymarin phytosome.
Clients include pharmaceutical companies and high-end supplement brands, with prices reflecting the advanced technology: "Our phytosome silymarin is more expensive, but the increased efficacy means our customers need smaller doses, saving them money in the long run," Dr. Santos notes. Recent partnerships include a US pharmaceutical firm developing a liver disease medication and a European supplement brand launching a "next-gen" liver support line. For businesses looking to differentiate with science-backed ingredients, Tropical Bioactives is a clear leader.
9. Salvadoran Silymarin Works – The Brand Builder
Salvadoran Silymarin Works (SSW) is for businesses that want to launch their own supplement line without the hassle of manufacturing. This wholesaler and OEM provider offers turnkey private-label services, from formulation to packaging. "We handle everything: sourcing the silymarin, encapsulating it, designing the label, and even helping with regulatory compliance," says Sofia Mendez, SSW's OEM Director. "Our clients can focus on marketing, while we handle the production."
SSW's product range includes raw silymarin powder (60-90%) and finished capsules (bulk or bottled), with options for vegan capsules and custom dosages. They have a team of regulatory experts who stay up-to-date on global supplement laws, helping clients navigate FDA, EU, and ASEAN requirements. "We recently helped a startup in Australia launch their liver support capsules, handling everything from TGA registration to shipping," Mendez adds.
Minimum order quantities for private-label capsules start at 10,000 units, making SSW accessible to small brands. They also offer low-cost label design services and can source additional ingredients (like vitamins or minerals) to create comprehensive formulas. Clients praise their one-stop-shop approach: "I had an idea for a liver supplement, and SSW turned it into a finished product in under two months," says a first-time supplement entrepreneur in Canada. "I couldn't have done it without them."
10. Global Extracts Distribution – The End-to-End Partner
Rounding out our list is Global Extracts Distribution, a company that takes a holistic approach to silymarin supply. From sourcing seeds to delivering finished products, they manage every step of the process, ensuring consistency and reliability. "We own our entire supply chain," says Hector Rivera, Global Extracts' CEO. "We have our own farms in La Paz, our own extraction facility in San Martin, and our own logistics network—so we control quality at every stage."
Global Extracts offers a range of silymarin extracts (70-85%) and ready-to-use capsules (bulk), with certifications including WHO GMP and ISO 9001. Their farms use drip irrigation and integrated pest management to minimize environmental impact, and their extraction facility runs on renewable energy. "Sustainability isn't a buzzword for us—it's part of our business model," Rivera notes.
With clients in over 30 countries, Global Extracts has the scale to handle large orders (up to 5 tons per month) while maintaining personalized service. They offer dedicated account managers who work with clients to forecast demand and avoid stockouts. "Our biggest client is a multinational supplement brand, and we've never missed a delivery in five years," Rivera says proudly. For businesses seeking a reliable, long-term partner with full supply chain visibility, Global Extracts Distribution is a standout choice.
Choosing the Right Silymarin Partner in El Salvador
El Salvador's silymarin suppliers, manufacturers, wholesalers, and traders offer something for every business—whether you're a pharmaceutical giant needing pharmaceutical-grade extracts, a startup launching a clean-label supplement, or a skincare brand seeking natural antioxidants. The key is to align your priorities with each supplier's strengths:
- For pharmaceutical-grade silymarin: El Salvador Natural Extracts Co. or BioNatura El Salvador (both offer high purity and rigorous testing).
- For small-batch flexibility: Silymarin Solutions SA (low MOQs and fast delivery).
- For sustainability and organic options: Green Harvest Botanicals or Mountain Herbals Ltd. (both prioritize ethical sourcing).
- For custom formulations: Andes Pure Ingredients or Tropical Bioactives (innovative blends and delivery systems).
- For private-label supplements: Salvadoran Silymarin Works (turnkey OEM services).
- For cost-effectiveness: Pacific Extract Traders (bulk pricing and quick shipping).
No matter which supplier you choose, always ask for third-party lab reports, visit their facilities if possible, and start with a small sample order to test quality. With El Salvador's growing reputation for botanical excellence, you're sure to find a partner that helps your business thrive—while bringing the benefits of silymarin to consumers worldwide.
