When it comes to natural remedies and herbal extracts, few compounds have gained as much trust as silymarin. Derived from the seeds of the milk thistle plant (Silybum marianum), this powerful antioxidant has been celebrated for decades for its liver-supporting properties, making it a cornerstone in supplements, pharmaceuticals, and even skincare products. Iran, with its fertile lands and rich tradition in herbal medicine, has emerged as a key player in the global silymarin market. The country's ideal climate for milk thistle cultivation—particularly in regions like Fars, Khorasan, and Isfahan—has nurtured a thriving industry of suppliers, manufacturers, and traders dedicated to delivering high-quality silymarin to markets worldwide. Whether you're a business looking for bulk silymarin powder, a supplement brand searching for reliable raw materials, or a researcher seeking pharmaceutical-grade extracts, Iran's top players offer a blend of tradition, innovation, and quality that's hard to match. Let's dive into the top 10 silymarin suppliers in Iran, each bringing something unique to the table.
1. Persian Herbal Extracts Co. (PHEC) – Tehran
Founded in 2005, Persian Herbal Extracts Co. (PHEC) has grown from a small family-run operation to one of Iran's most respected names in silymarin production. Based in Tehran, PHEC prides itself on sourcing milk thistle directly from local farmers in Khorasan Razavi, where the dry, sunny climate yields seeds with some of the highest silymarin concentrations in the country (often reaching 80-85% purity). What sets PHEC apart is its vertically integrated model: from planting and harvesting to extraction and packaging, every step is controlled in-house, ensuring consistency and traceability. Their product line includes standardized silymarin extracts (ranging from 60% to 90% silybin content), as well as organic milk thistle extract options certified by the Iranian Organic Certification Institute. With a state-of-the-art extraction facility equipped with supercritical CO2 technology, PHEC caters to both pharmaceutical companies and dietary supplement brands, exporting to Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Key strength: Exceptional quality control, with each batch tested for heavy metals, pesticides, and purity before shipment.
2. Green Nature Extracts – Isfahan
Nestled in the heart of Isfahan, known as Iran's "city of gardens," Green Nature Extracts has built its reputation on sustainability and innovation. Established in 2010, this manufacturer specializes in eco-friendly extraction processes, using water-based methods and solar-powered facilities to minimize environmental impact. Their silymarin offerings are a hit among organic supplement brands, as they source milk thistle from pesticide-free farms in the Zayandeh Rud basin. Green Nature's flagship product is a 70% silymarin extract powder, ideal for capsules and tablets, but they also offer liquid extracts and oil-soluble variants for cosmetic formulations. What makes them stand out is their commitment to transparency: clients can request farm visit records, batch test reports, and even video tours of their extraction labs. They've also invested heavily in research, collaborating with Isfahan University to develop a patented extraction method that preserves silymarin's bioactivity. Key strength: Eco-conscious production and a focus on organic, traceable ingredients—perfect for brands targeting health-conscious consumers.
3. Sina Pharmed Co. – Shiraz
For those in the pharmaceutical industry, Sina Pharmed Co. is a name that needs no introduction. Based in Shiraz, this ISO 9001 and GMP-certified manufacturer has been a leader in high-purity silymarin since 1998. Their claim to fame? Producing pharmaceutical-grade silymarin with a minimum purity of 95%, meeting the strict standards of the European Pharmacopoeia (Ph. Eur.) and FDA. Sina Pharmed's production process is rigorous: milk thistle seeds are cold-pressed to retain active compounds, then extracted using ethanol and purified via column chromatography. The result is a fine, white powder with consistent silybin A and B ratios, making it a favorite for liver medications and clinical supplements. Beyond silymarin, they also offer milk thistle extract in various forms, including micronized powder for faster absorption. With a dedicated export team fluent in English, German, and Arabic, Sina Pharmed has built a loyal client base in Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia. Key strength: Pharmaceutical-grade purity and compliance with international regulatory standards.
4. Iran Herbal Traders (IHT) – Mashhad
If you're looking for a one-stop shop for bulk silymarin, Iran Herbal Traders (IHT) in Mashhad has you covered. As one of the largest wholesalers in northeast Iran, IHT works with over 50 local farmers and small-scale extractors to source milk thistle seeds and silymarin extracts. Their network allows them to offer competitive prices, making them a go-to for businesses needing large quantities—think 500kg+ orders. IHT's product range is diverse: from raw milk thistle seeds (ideal for small-scale extractors) to standardized silymarin powders (30% to 80% purity) and even ready-to-package silymarin capsules for private labeling. They also specialize in fast turnaround times, with most bulk orders shipped within 72 hours of payment. What clients love about IHT is their flexibility: they can customize extract concentrations, packaging sizes, and even help with logistics, including arranging shipping to ports in Bandar Abbas or Dubai. Key strength: Bulk quantities at wholesale prices, with a focus on speed and customer service.
5. Zarrin Herbal Extracts – Qom
Zarrin Herbal Extracts, based in Qom, has carved a niche for itself by blending traditional herbal knowledge with modern technology. Founded by a team of herbalists and chemical engineers in 2012, the company prides itself on creating silymarin extracts that honor the plant's natural properties. Their unique selling point? A "slow extraction" method that uses low heat and gentle solvents, preserving not just silymarin but also other beneficial compounds found in milk thistle, like flavonoids and fatty acids. This full-spectrum approach has made their 65% silymarin extract a hit among holistic supplement brands, who market it as a "whole-plant" product. Zarrin also offers organic silymarin certified by Ecocert, and they've recently expanded into fortified extracts, adding vitamins like B12 and folate for enhanced liver support. With a small but dedicated team, they prioritize long-term client relationships, often providing free samples and custom formulation support. Key strength: Full-spectrum extracts that capture the plant's natural complexity, appealing to brands focused on holistic wellness.
6. Khorasan Bio Extracts – Mashhad
Khorasan Bio Extracts, located in the heart of Iran's milk thistle country, is all about quality through proximity. The company sources its milk thistle seeds from the fertile plains of North Khorasan, where the region's alkaline soil and cool nights are said to boost silymarin content naturally. This local advantage allows Khorasan Bio to offer some of the highest purity silymarin on the market—up to 90%—at competitive prices. Their production facility, built in 2015, uses advanced centrifugation and membrane filtration to separate silymarin from other seed components, resulting in a ultra-fine powder with low ash content. They cater primarily to international buyers, with a focus on Europe and Asia, and have built a reputation for reliability: they've never missed a delivery deadline in their eight years of operation. Khorasan Bio also offers contract manufacturing services, helping clients develop custom silymarin-based products from concept to packaging. Key strength: Access to premium local milk thistle and a track record of on-time, high-quality deliveries.
7. Arya Herbals – Tehran
Arya Herbals is a household name in Iran's domestic herbal market, but their silymarin exports have been gaining traction globally. Based in Tehran, this family-owned business has been around since 1985, starting as a small trader and growing into a full-fledged manufacturer. What makes Arya Herbals unique is their focus on affordability without compromising quality. They offer a range of silymarin extracts, from 40% purity (great for budget-friendly supplements) to 80% (for premium lines), all tested in their in-house lab for heavy metals and microbial contamination. Their bestseller? A bulk 50% silymarin powder that's become a staple for small to medium supplement brands in Africa and South America. Arya Herbals also prides itself on its customer service: their sales team is available 24/7 to answer queries, and they offer flexible payment terms for repeat clients. Key strength: A balance of quality and affordability, making silymarin accessible to businesses of all sizes.
8. Pars Extract Co. – Isfahan
Pars Extract Co. has made a name for itself by specializing in niche silymarin products. Located in Isfahan's industrial zone, this innovative manufacturer offers everything from water-soluble silymarin (perfect for beverages and liquid supplements) to nano-encapsulated silymarin (for enhanced bioavailability in skincare serums). Their most popular product, however, is a standardized silymarin extract with 85% silybin, designed specifically for the sports nutrition industry—athletes swear by its ability to support liver function during intense training. Pars Extract invests heavily in R&D, with a team of chemists constantly exploring new applications for silymarin, including pet supplements and functional foods. They're also known for their quick turnaround on custom orders: need a silymarin extract with a specific particle size or solubility? They can deliver within two weeks. Key strength: Innovative, specialty silymarin products for emerging markets and unique applications.
9. Golestan Natural Products – Gorgan
Tucked away in the lush Golestan province, known for its forests and agricultural diversity, Golestan Natural Products brings a regional touch to silymarin production. This supplier works exclusively with small-scale farmers in the area, ensuring fair prices and sustainable farming practices. Their milk thistle is grown without synthetic fertilizers, and their extraction process uses only natural solvents like ethanol and water. The result is a silymarin extract with a warm, golden hue and a mild, earthy scent—qualities that have made it popular for natural skincare brands. Golestan offers both organic and conventional silymarin, with purity levels ranging from 50% to 75%. They also sell whole milk thistle seeds and cold-pressed milk thistle oil, making them a one-stop shop for businesses looking to incorporate multiple milk thistle-derived ingredients. Key strength: A commitment to ethical sourcing and supporting local communities, appealing to brands with strong CSR values.
10. Emam Reza Pharma – Mashhad
Rounding out our list is Emam Reza Pharma, a Mashhad-based manufacturer with a focus on high-volume, high-quality silymarin exports. With a production capacity of over 50 tons of silymarin per year, they're one of Iran's largest suppliers, catering to big-name supplement brands and pharmaceutical companies worldwide. Emam Reza Pharma's facility is equipped with automated extraction lines and a large-scale drying system, allowing them to handle bulk orders efficiently. Their silymarin is known for its consistency—batch-to-batch variation is less than 2%, a testament to their strict quality control protocols. They're also certified by the Halal Food Authority, making their products suitable for markets in the Middle East and Southeast Asia with halal requirements. In addition to standard extracts, they offer silymarin in granular form for easier blending and tablet compression. Key strength: Massive production capacity and reliable consistency, ideal for large-scale manufacturers and global brands.
Choosing the right silymarin supplier is about more than just price—it's about aligning with your brand's values, whether that's sustainability, purity, innovation, or affordability. Iran's top silymarin suppliers offer a diverse range of options, from pharmaceutical-grade extracts to organic, full-spectrum powders, ensuring there's something for every need. As you explore these suppliers, remember to prioritize certifications, traceability, and communication—after all, a strong partnership with your supplier is the foundation of delivering quality products to your customers. Whether you're crafting the next best silymarin supplement or developing a breakthrough liver medication, Iran's rich tradition in herbal extracts and commitment to quality make it a top destination for sourcing this powerful compound.
