Top 10 Milk Thistle Extract Suppliers, Manufacturers, Wholesalers, and Traders in Portugal

If you've ever stood in the aisle of a health store, scanning the labels of liver support supplements or herbal teas, chances are you've come across milk thistle extract. This golden-hued botanical, derived from the seeds of the Silybum marianum plant, has been cherished for centuries for its remarkable benefits—most notably its ability to support liver health, thanks to the active compound silymarin. But for businesses, from small-scale supplement brands to large cosmetic manufacturers, finding a reliable source of high-quality milk thistle extract is more than just a (purchasing task); it's the foundation of creating products that customers trust.

Portugal, with its rich agricultural heritage and favorable climate for botanical cultivation, has emerged as a hub for botanical extract production in Europe. From the rolling vineyards of the Douro Valley to the coastal plains of the Algarve, the country's diverse landscapes nurture a thriving industry of suppliers and manufacturers dedicated to harnessing the power of plants. Whether you're in need of bulk milk thistle extract for a new line of organic supplements or seeking a supplier with organic certified botanical extracts for your luxury skincare brand, Portugal's market offers a range of options to suit every need.

In this guide, we'll introduce you to the top 10 milk thistle extract suppliers, manufacturers, wholesalers, and traders in Portugal. We'll dive into their backgrounds, production practices, and what makes them stand out in a crowded market—so you can make an informed choice that aligns with your business goals, whether you're prioritizing sustainability, certifications, or bulk pricing. Let's get started.

Why Quality Matters: The Importance of Choosing the Right Milk Thistle Extract Supplier

Before we jump into the list, let's take a moment to understand why selecting a reputable supplier is so critical. Milk thistle extract isn't just a commodity; its efficacy depends on factors like extraction methods, plant sourcing, and purity. A subpar extract might contain low levels of silymarin (the key active ingredient), or worse, contaminants like pesticides or heavy metals—both of which can harm your customers and damage your brand's reputation.

Reliable suppliers invest in rigorous quality control, from seed to extract. They work with trusted farmers to source organic or sustainably grown milk thistle, use gentle extraction methods (like cold pressing or CO2 extraction) to preserve nutrients, and conduct third-party testing to verify potency. For businesses that prioritize transparency, certifications like ISO 9001 (quality management), GMP (good manufacturing practices), and organic certifications (like EU Organic or USDA Organic) are non-negotiable.

Additionally, if your business requires bulk milk thistle extract , you'll need a supplier with the capacity to scale production without compromising quality. Whether you're a startup ordering 50kg for a pilot run or a multinational corporation needing metric tons, a supplier with robust logistics and consistent output can save you time, money, and headaches down the line.

Top 10 Milk Thistle Extract Suppliers in Portugal: A Closer Look

To compile this list, we focused on suppliers with a proven track record of quality, customer satisfaction, and industry expertise. Each of these companies brings something unique to the table, whether it's decades of experience, cutting-edge technology, or a commitment to sustainability. Let's meet them:

1. GreenHerb Portugal: The Organic Pioneer

Tucked away in the rural heart of central Portugal, GreenHerb Portugal has been a cornerstone of the country's botanical extract scene since 1998. What started as a small family farm growing medicinal herbs has evolved into a full-fledged milk thistle extract manufacturer with a focus on organic and sustainable practices. Today, their 10,000-square-meter facility in Coimbra processes over 50 tons of milk thistle seeds annually, all sourced from organic-certified farms within a 50-kilometer radius.

GreenHerb's claim to fame is their cold-press extraction method, which uses minimal heat to preserve the integrity of silymarin and other bioactive compounds. This results in extracts with a silymarin content of 70–75%, ideal for high-end supplements and natural skincare lines. Their bulk offerings range from 1kg samples to 500kg weekly orders, and they pride themselves on same-day shipping for urgent requests.

Certifications? GreenHerb holds EU Organic, ISO 9001, and GMP certifications, and they're one of the few suppliers in Portugal to have their entire supply chain audited by the Soil Association. For businesses prioritizing organic certified botanical extracts , this level of transparency is a game-changer.

2. Lusitanian Extracts: The High-Potency Specialist

If your product requires milk thistle extract with exceptional silymarin levels, Lusitanian Extracts in Lisbon is worth a closer look. Founded in 2005 by a team of pharmaceutical scientists, this milk thistle extract supplier has built a reputation for pushing the boundaries of extraction technology. Their proprietary supercritical CO2 extraction process yields extracts with silymarin concentrations of 80% or higher—among the highest in Europe.

Lusitanian sources its milk thistle seeds from a network of farmers in the Douro Valley, known for its mineral-rich soils and ideal growing conditions. The seeds are tested for purity before extraction, and every batch of extract undergoes HPLC analysis to verify silymarin content. This rigorous quality control makes them a favorite among pharmaceutical companies and sports nutrition brands, where potency is non-negotiable.

With a weekly bulk capacity of 1 ton, Lusitanian can handle large orders, but they also cater to smaller businesses with flexible minimum order quantities (starting at 25kg). Their certifications include ISO 22000 (food safety), Kosher, and Halal, making their extracts suitable for a wide range of global markets.

3. Atlantic Botanicals: The Sustainable Storyteller

For brands that sell not just products but stories, Atlantic Botanicals in Oporto is a standout choice. This supplier and exporter prides itself on its traceable supply chain, allowing customers to track their milk thistle extract from seed to shelf. Each batch comes with a QR code linked to the farm where the seeds were grown, the extraction date, and third-party lab results—a level of transparency that resonates with eco-conscious consumers.

Atlantic Botanicals works with small-scale farmers along Portugal's Atlantic coast, many of whom use regenerative agricultural practices to improve soil health. The company also invests in reforestation projects, planting one tree for every 10kg of extract sold. Their commitment to sustainability has earned them USDA Organic certification and a spot on the EU's list of "Green Suppliers" for 2024.

While their bulk capacity (up to 300kg/week) is smaller than some competitors, Atlantic Botanicals makes up for it with personalized service. They offer custom packaging, private labeling, and even help businesses craft marketing narratives around their sustainable sourcing—perfect for small to medium brands looking to differentiate themselves.

4. Alentejo Herbals: The Eco-Friendly Innovator

In the sun-drenched plains of the Alentejo region, Alentejo Herbals has turned "going green" into an art form. This manufacturer and wholesaler operates a zero-waste facility, where every byproduct of the extraction process is repurposed: leftover seed meal is sold as animal feed, and water used in cleaning is filtered and reused for irrigation. Their commitment to circularity has earned them ISO 14001 certification for environmental management.

Alentejo's milk thistle extract is a hit with natural cosmetic brands, thanks to its gentle extraction method (using only cold water and ethanol) that retains skin-nourishing antioxidants. Their bulk options include both powder and liquid extracts, with silymarin levels ranging from 60–75%. They also offer bulk milk thistle extract in eco-friendly packaging, such as compostable bags and recyclable drums, for businesses looking to reduce their carbon footprint.

Founded in 2010 by a former environmental scientist, Alentejo Herbals has grown steadily by prioritizing both quality and sustainability. Their EU Organic and GMP certifications ensure compliance with strict standards, while their competitive pricing (thanks to lower waste costs) makes them accessible to startups and established brands alike.

5. Porto Extracts Co.: The Logistics Expert

For businesses that need milk thistle extract delivered yesterday, Porto Extracts Co. is the go-to supplier. Based in Portugal's second-largest city, this trader and distributor has built a reputation for lightning-fast delivery, with most domestic orders arriving within 24 hours and international shipments (to EU countries) reaching their destination in 48–72 hours. Their secret? A strategically located warehouse near Porto's international airport and partnerships with major logistics firms.

Porto Extracts doesn't manufacture its own extract but sources from a network of vetted milk thistle extract manufacturers across Portugal and Spain. This allows them to offer a wide range of products, from standard 70% silymarin powder to specialty extracts for the pet food industry. Their bulk capacity is impressive—up to 800kg/week—and they offer flexible payment terms for repeat customers.

While they don't grow their own herbs, Porto Extracts takes quality seriously. Every batch is tested in-house for contaminants and potency before shipping, and they provide a 100% satisfaction guarantee. For businesses that value reliability and speed over vertical integration, this supplier is a strong contender.

6. Mediterranean Bioactives: The Pharma-Grade Leader

When it comes to pharmaceutical-grade milk thistle extract, Mediterranean Bioactives in Braga sets the bar high. This manufacturer specializes in extracts for the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries, where precision and consistency are critical. Their state-of-the-art facility operates under ISO 13485 (medical device quality management) standards, and their extracts are compliant with the European Pharmacopoeia (Ph. Eur.) monograph for Silybi mariani fructus extractum.

Mediterranean Bioactives uses advanced extraction techniques, including ultrasonic-assisted extraction, to maximize silymarin yield while minimizing solvent use. The result is a highly concentrated extract (75–85% silymarin) with low residual solvents (<0.001%), making it suitable for prescription medications and high-potency supplements. They also offer custom formulations, such as enteric-coated powders for improved bioavailability.

With a weekly bulk capacity of 600kg and a dedicated R&D team, Mediterranean Bioactives is a partner for businesses looking to innovate. Their client list includes major pharmaceutical companies across Europe, a testament to their commitment to quality.

7. Northern Green Botanicals: The Small-Batch Artisan

Not all businesses need metric tons of extract—some thrive on small-batch, artisanal products. Northern Green Botanicals, located in the mountainous region of Trás-os-Montes, caters to this niche. Founded in 2015 by a herbalist and a chef, this wholesaler and exporter specializes in small-batch milk thistle extract, with minimum orders as low as 1kg.

What sets Northern Green apart is their attention to detail. Each batch is hand-processed using traditional maceration techniques, resulting in extracts with a rich, complex profile of phytochemicals. While their silymarin levels (65–70%) are slightly lower than industrial manufacturers, their extracts are prized by craft supplement brands and herbalists for their depth of flavor and aroma—qualities that shine in teas and tinctures.

Certified EU Organic and GMP-compliant, Northern Green Botanicals sources its milk thistle from high-altitude farms in the region, where cooler temperatures slow growth and concentrate nutrients. Their weekly bulk capacity is 350kg, but they're happy to work with businesses on custom timelines for larger orders.

8. Sintra Natural Ingredients: The Custom Formulation Whiz

For businesses with unique needs—whether it's a milk thistle extract blended with other botanicals or a specific particle size for encapsulation—Sintra Natural Ingredients in Sintra is the solution. This supplier and manufacturer prides itself on its ability to create custom formulations, working closely with clients to develop extracts that meet their exact specifications.

Sintra's in-house lab is equipped with particle size analyzers, spectrophotometers, and HPLC machines, allowing them to test and refine formulations quickly. They've developed blends like milk thistle + artichoke extract (for liver support) and milk thistle + green tea extract (for antioxidant skincare) that have become bestsellers for their clients. Their bulk capacity is 700kg/week, and they offer private labeling for businesses looking to launch their own branded extracts.

Certified ISO 22000 and Halal, Sintra Natural Ingredients serves a diverse range of markets, from Europe to the Middle East. Their customer service team includes food scientists and herbalists who can provide technical support, making them a valuable partner for businesses new to the botanical extract space.

9. Azorean Extracts: The Island Gem

For something truly unique, look to Azorean Extracts, based on the volcanic island of São Miguel in the Azores. The Azores' isolated location and fertile volcanic soil create a microclimate that produces milk thistle with a distinct phytochemical profile—higher in certain antioxidants, according to the company's in-house studies. This "terroir-driven" extract has become a favorite among luxury skincare brands and specialty supplement companies.

Azorean Extracts works directly with local farmers, many of whom have been growing milk thistle for generations. The company is Fair Trade certified, ensuring farmers receive a fair price for their crops. Their extraction process is small-scale but efficient, using solar-powered equipment to reduce their carbon footprint. Weekly bulk capacity is 250kg, but they offer exclusive "vintage" batches made from limited-edition harvests for premium brands.

Certified EU Organic and GMP, Azorean Extracts is proof that quality often comes from passion and place. For businesses looking to tell a unique story with their products, their island-grown milk thistle extract is a compelling choice.

10. Tagus Valley Botanicals: The Budget-Friendly Option

Last but not least, Tagus Valley Botanicals in Santarém caters to businesses watching their bottom line. This wholesaler and distributor offers high-quality milk thistle extract at competitive prices, making it a popular choice for startups and large-scale manufacturers alike. Their secret? A focus on efficiency: they source seeds in bulk from Eastern European farms (where costs are lower), use large-scale extraction equipment to reduce per-unit costs, and pass the savings on to customers.

Don't let the low prices fool you—Tagus Valley doesn't skimp on quality. Their extracts have a consistent silymarin content of 70%, and they're certified GMP and ISO 9001. They also offer bulk discounts: the more you order, the lower the price per kilogram. Weekly capacity is 900kg, and they have a large inventory, so most orders ship within 2–3 business days.

Tagus Valley's customer base includes supplement brands, animal feed manufacturers, and even cosmetic companies looking for cost-effective ingredients. For businesses that need reliable quality at a reasonable price, they're a solid choice.

How to Choose the Right Milk Thistle Extract Supplier for Your Business

With so many options, how do you narrow down the list to find the perfect supplier for your business? Here are a few key factors to consider:

• Your product needs: Are you making pharmaceuticals (need high silymarin, pharma certifications)? Cosmetics (gentle extraction, organic)? Supplements (bulk pricing)? Match your needs to the supplier's specialty.
• Certifications: If you're targeting organic or kosher markets, prioritize suppliers with relevant certifications. For pharmaceuticals, look for GMP and ISO 13485.
• Bulk capacity: Ensure the supplier can meet your current and future demand. A small-batch supplier might be perfect now, but if you scale, you'll need to switch.
• Transparency: Ask for batch test reports, sourcing information, and facility tours. A reputable supplier will be happy to share this.
• Customer service: Do they respond quickly to inquiries? Offer technical support? A supplier with good communication can save you time and stress.

Finally, don't be afraid to order samples. Most suppliers offer small sample sizes (100–500g) so you can test the extract's quality, consistency, and compatibility with your product before committing to a bulk order.

Conclusion: Portugal's Milk Thistle Extract Market—A Wealth of Choice

From organic pioneers to pharmaceutical specialists, Portugal's milk thistle extract suppliers offer something for every business. Whether you're a small startup launching your first supplement or a multinational corporation scaling production, the country's rich botanical heritage, strict quality standards, and innovative manufacturers make it a top destination for sourcing this versatile extract.

Remember, the best supplier isn't just the one with the lowest price—it's the one that aligns with your values, meets your quality standards, and grows with your business. By prioritizing reliability, transparency, and expertise, you'll find a partner that helps your products succeed in the market.

So, whether you're drawn to GreenHerb's organic ethos, Lusitanian's high potency, or Atlantic Botanicals' sustainability story, Portugal's top milk thistle extract suppliers are ready to help you bring the power of this remarkable botanical to your customers.