Milk thistle—with its distinctive purple blooms and prickly leaves—has been a staple in herbal medicine for centuries, celebrated most for its remarkable support of liver health. At the heart of its power is silymarin, a flavonoid complex that acts as a potent antioxidant, shielding liver cells from damage and promoting regeneration. In today's world, where natural supplements are increasingly sought after for their gentle yet effective benefits, finding a reliable source of high-quality milk thistle extract has become essential for brands, formulators, and health enthusiasts alike.
Taiwan, a small island nation with a big reputation in biotechnology and natural ingredients, has emerged as a global hub for premium botanical extracts. Renowned for its strict quality control standards, advanced extraction technologies, and commitment to sustainable sourcing, Taiwanese suppliers consistently deliver products that meet the rigorous demands of international markets—from pharmaceuticals to nutraceuticals and cosmetics. Whether you're in search of bulk quantities for large-scale production, specialized formulations for supplements, or organic-certified options for eco-conscious brands, Taiwan's milk thistle extract suppliers offer a diverse range of solutions tailored to your needs.
In this guide, we've curated the top 10 milk thistle extract suppliers, manufacturers, wholesalers, and traders in Taiwan. Each entry highlights what makes these companies stand out—from their production capabilities and certifications to their unique selling points and customer-centric approaches. Whether you're a seasoned buyer or new to sourcing botanical extracts, this list aims to simplify your search and connect you with partners who prioritize quality, reliability, and innovation.
| Supplier Name | Established | Core Focus | Key Certifications | Primary Markets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taiwan Herbal Extract Co., Ltd. | 1998 | Manufacturer, Bulk Supply | GMP, ISO 9001, Organic EU/USDA | Global (Europe, North America, Asia) |
| Green Leaf Biotech Industries | 2005 | Manufacturer, R&D | ISO 22000, Kosher, Halal | Pharmaceuticals, Nutraceuticals |
| Everest Natural Ingredients | 2010 | Wholesaler, Trader | ISO 14001, GMP | Asia Pacific, Middle East |
| PureSilymarin Labs | 2002 | Specialized Manufacturer | FDA Registered, cGMP | North America, Europe |
| Taiwan BioExtract Solutions | 2012 | Manufacturer, Custom Formulations | Organic, Non-GMO Project Verified | Global Supplements, Cosmetics |
| Nature's Best Trading Co. | 1995 | Wholesaler, Exporter | ISO 9001, HACCP | Southeast Asia, Australia |
| Golden Thistle Biotech | 2008 | Manufacturer, Sustainable Sourcing | EU Organic, Fair Trade | Europe, Japan, Korea |
| Herbal Roots Wholesale | 2015 | Bulk Wholesaler | GMP, ISO 22000 | Domestic Taiwan, China, India |
| Premium Extracts Taiwan | 2000 | High-Purity Manufacturer | USP, EP Compliance | Pharmaceutical, High-End Supplements |
| Global Botanicals Trading | 2018 | Trader, Niche Markets | Organic, Vegan Certified | North America, Australia, New Zealand |
1. Taiwan Herbal Extract Co., Ltd.
Founded in 1998, Taiwan Herbal Extract Co., Ltd. has grown from a small family-run operation to one of Taiwan's most trusted milk thistle extract manufacturers. With over two decades of experience, they've honed their craft in extracting silymarin—the active compound in milk thistle—with precision and care. What sets them apart? A relentless focus on quality from seed to extract. They partner with organic farms in central Taiwan, where milk thistle is grown without synthetic pesticides, ensuring the raw material is as pure as nature intended.
As a leading milk thistle extract manufacturer, their GMP-certified facility spans 10,000 square meters, equipped with state-of-the-art supercritical CO2 extraction technology. This method preserves the integrity of silymarin, resulting in a product with up to 80% purity—ideal for high-end supplements and pharmaceutical applications. They specialize in milk thistle extract bulk orders, offering both powder and liquid forms, and can accommodate custom specifications, such as micronized powder for easier blending in capsules or tablets.
Certifications are a cornerstone of their reputation: ISO 9001 for quality management, Organic EU and USDA certifications for their organic line, and Halal certification to cater to diverse markets. Their products are exported to over 30 countries, with a strong presence in Europe and North America. Customers often praise their consistent potency—each batch undergoes third-party testing for heavy metals, pesticides, and microbial contaminants—and their responsive customer service team, which provides detailed COA (Certificate of Analysis) and technical support.
Beyond manufacturing, they're committed to sustainability. Their extraction process uses 30% less energy than traditional methods, and they recycle water used in cleaning raw materials. For brands looking for a partner that balances quality, ethics, and scalability, Taiwan Herbal Extract Co., Ltd. is a top contender.
2. Green Leaf Biotech Industries
Green Leaf Biotech Industries entered the scene in 2005 with a mission: to blend traditional herbal wisdom with cutting-edge science. Today, they're known for their innovative approach to milk thistle extract production, particularly in enhancing bioavailability—the rate at which the body absorbs silymarin. For supplement brands, this is a game-changer: higher bioavailability means more effective products, and Green Leaf has made this their specialty.
As a research-driven milk thistle extract manufacturer, their in-house R&D team has developed a proprietary "micro-encapsulation" technology that protects silymarin from stomach acid, ensuring it reaches the liver where it's needed most. This innovation has made their extracts a favorite among pharmaceutical companies developing liver support medications and nutraceutical brands targeting health-conscious consumers. Their product range includes standard extracts (70-80% silymarin), as well as specialized formulations like "Silymarin Plus," which combines milk thistle with other liver-loving herbs like dandelion and artichoke.
Quality control is non-negotiable here. Their facility is ISO 22000 certified (food safety management) and Kosher certified, and they conduct over 20 tests per batch, including HPLC for silymarin content and GC-MS for residual solvents. They also offer small-batch production for startups, making them accessible to emerging brands. While they do cater to bulk orders, their flexibility in minimum order quantities (MOQs) sets them apart from larger manufacturers.
Exporting primarily to Europe and North America, Green Leaf prides itself on transparency. They provide full traceability reports, allowing customers to track their extract from the farm where the milk thistle was grown to the final product. For brands prioritizing innovation and bioavailability, Green Leaf Biotech Industries is a standout choice.
3. Everest Natural Ingredients
Everest Natural Ingredients, established in 2010, isn't just a supplier—it's a bridge between Taiwan's botanical expertise and global markets. As a wholesaler and trader, they work with a network of vetted local manufacturers to curate a diverse range of milk thistle extracts, ensuring buyers can find exactly what they need without the hassle of vetting multiple suppliers. Their strength lies in their ability to source high quality milk thistle extract in various forms: from conventional to organic, powdered to liquid, and even standardized extracts with specific silymarin concentrations (50% to 80%).
What makes Everest a go-to for many buyers? Their deep industry knowledge and personalized service. Whether you're a small supplement brand needing 50kg of milk thistle powder or a large food manufacturer requiring 1000kg of liquid extract, their team takes the time to understand your needs, recommend the best product, and negotiate competitive pricing with their manufacturing partners. They also offer logistics support, handling customs clearance and shipping to ensure timely delivery—critical for businesses with tight production schedules.
Certifications are a priority, too. All their suppliers hold GMP and ISO certifications, and they can provide organic, Kosher, and Halal options upon request. Their main markets include Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and parts of Africa, where they've built strong relationships over the past decade. Customers often highlight their reliability—orders are rarely delayed, and they're quick to resolve any issues, such as replacing a batch if it doesn't meet specifications.
For buyers who value convenience, variety, and a trusted intermediary, Everest Natural Ingredients simplifies the sourcing process, making it easier to access Taiwan's top-tier milk thistle extracts.
4. PureSilymarin Labs
True to its name, PureSilymarin Labs is obsessed with one thing: producing the purest milk thistle extract possible. Founded in 2002, this specialized manufacturer focuses solely on milk thistle, allowing them to perfect their extraction process and deliver unparalleled consistency. Their claim to fame? Extracts with silymarin concentrations up to 90%—among the highest in the industry—making them a favorite for pharmaceutical and high-potency supplement applications.
How do they achieve such high purity? PureSilymarin uses a patented two-step extraction process: first, they use ethanol to extract the crude silymarin, then a proprietary solvent system to isolate and concentrate the active flavonolignans (silybin, silydianin, silychristin). The result is a fine, light-yellow powder that's nearly odorless and easy to incorporate into capsules, tablets, or even liquid tinctures. They also offer "ultra-pure" grades (95% silymarin) for research and clinical trials, catering to the pharmaceutical sector's stringent requirements.
Compliance is key here. Their facility is FDA registered and cGMP compliant, and they adhere to USP (United States Pharmacopeia) and EP (European Pharmacopoeia) standards. Every batch is tested by an independent lab in Taipei, with results available on request. While their prices are higher than some competitors, customers say the investment is worth it for the reliability and potency of their extracts. They primarily export to North America and Europe, where demand for high-purity ingredients is strongest.
For brands developing products targeting specific health conditions—like liver cirrhosis or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)—PureSilymarin Labs provides the potency needed to back clinical claims. Their focus on specialization ensures that milk thistle extract isn't just another product in their lineup, but their passion.
5. Taiwan BioExtract Solutions
Taiwan BioExtract Solutions, founded in 2012, is a disruptor in the botanical extract space, focusing on custom formulations and eco-friendly practices. Unlike many manufacturers that offer standardized products, they work closely with clients to create tailored milk thistle extract solutions. Whether you need a water-soluble extract for beverages, a lipid-soluble version for skincare, or a slow-release powder for extended-release supplements, their team of formulators can develop it.
What makes them unique? A commitment to sustainability that goes beyond certifications. They use 100% renewable energy in their extraction process, source milk thistle from regenerative farms (where soil health is prioritized), and even repurpose extraction byproducts as fertilizer for local farms. This circular approach has earned them a loyal following among eco-conscious brands and consumers. Their organic line, certified by EU and USDA, is particularly popular in markets like California and Scandinavia, where demand for sustainable ingredients is booming.
As a milk thistle extract manufacturer, they're also known for their innovation in delivery systems. Their "Silymarin Microbeads" are tiny, coated particles that protect the extract from light and moisture, extending shelf life by up to 24 months. This is a hit with supplement brands looking to reduce waste and improve product stability. They offer both bulk and finished product services (OEM/ODM), including capsule filling and private labeling, making them a one-stop shop for startups.
Certifications include Non-GMO Project Verified, Vegan Certified, and ISO 14001 (environmental management). While they're a newer player compared to some competitors, their focus on customization and sustainability has quickly made them a favorite among forward-thinking brands. For those looking to create unique, eco-friendly milk thistle extract supplements, Taiwan BioExtract Solutions is a partner worth considering.
6. Nature's Best Trading Co.
Nature's Best Trading Co. has been a fixture in Taiwan's botanical extract market since 1995, making them one of the oldest wholesalers on this list. With a focus on accessibility and affordability, they've built a reputation for providing high quality milk thistle extract at competitive prices, making them ideal for small to medium-sized brands and international buyers looking to stretch their budgets.
As a wholesaler, they source from a network of 15+ local manufacturers, carefully vetting each for quality and reliability. This allows them to offer a wide range of products, from conventional milk thistle extract (60-70% silymarin) to organic options, and even specialty extracts like "milk thistle seed oil," rich in essential fatty acids for skincare. Their MOQs are lower than many manufacturers—starting at just 10kg for powder extracts—making them accessible to startups and businesses testing new products.
While they don't produce their own extracts, Nature's Best adds value through rigorous quality checks. They sample every batch from their suppliers and test for silymarin content, heavy metals, and microbial contamination in their in-house lab. They also provide consolidated shipping, allowing buyers to combine milk thistle extract with other botanical ingredients (like ginseng or turmeric) in a single order, reducing logistics costs. Their primary markets are Southeast Asia and Australia, where they've built strong relationships with health food stores and supplement brands.
Customers praise their transparency—they're upfront about which suppliers they work with and provide detailed COAs—and their responsive sales team, which speaks fluent English, Mandarin, and Thai. For brands prioritizing affordability, flexibility, and a wide product range, Nature's Best Trading Co. is a trusted partner with decades of experience.
7. Golden Thistle Biotech
Golden Thistle Biotech, established in 2008, is all about storytelling. They believe that the best milk thistle extract starts with happy plants, and they've built their brand around sustainable, ethical sourcing. Unlike many suppliers that source raw materials globally, they grow their own milk thistle on a 500-acre farm in southern Taiwan, where they control every aspect of the growing process—from soil testing to harvest timing. This vertical integration ensures consistency and traceability, a selling point for brands looking to connect with consumers who care about where their supplements come from.
As a milk thistle extract manufacturer, their extraction process is equally intentional. They use cold-press extraction for their seed oil and ethanol extraction for silymarin, avoiding harsh chemicals. The result is a range of products that retain the plant's natural phytocomplex, including not just silymarin, but also antioxidants and amino acids that enhance overall efficacy. Their "Whole Plant Extract" line, which includes the leaves and stems (not just seeds), is particularly popular for its broad spectrum of benefits, supporting not just liver health but also skin and digestive wellness.
Certifications include EU Organic, Fair Trade (ensuring farm workers receive fair wages), and ISO 22000. They're also carbon-neutral, offsetting emissions from transportation by investing in reforestation projects in Taiwan. Their products are exported to Europe (especially Germany and France), Japan, and Korea, where consumers value storytelling and ethical sourcing. They even offer farm tours for clients, allowing brands to see firsthand how their extract is made.
For brands looking to market their milk thistle extract supplement as "farm-to-bottle," Golden Thistle Biotech provides the transparency and narrative that resonates with today's conscious consumers. Their commitment to quality and ethics makes them more than a supplier—they're a partner in building brand trust.
8. Herbal Roots Wholesale
Herbal Roots Wholesale may be one of the newer entries on this list (founded in 2015), but they've quickly made a name for themselves as Taiwan's go-to bulk supplier for milk thistle extract. With a focus on volume and affordability, they cater to large-scale manufacturers, including food and beverage companies, animal supplement producers, and international distributors. Their sweet spot? Milk thistle extract bulk orders of 500kg or more, which they can fulfill in as little as 7 days—one of the fastest lead times in the industry.
How do they keep prices low and lead times short? By operating a streamlined, high-capacity facility in Kaohsiung, Taiwan's industrial hub. Their automated extraction lines can process up to 10 tons of milk thistle seeds daily, and they source raw materials in bulk from trusted farms in China and Eastern Europe (in addition to local Taiwanese farms), allowing them to negotiate lower prices. While they do offer organic options, their core product is conventional milk thistle extract (60-70% silymarin), ideal for cost-sensitive applications like animal feed additives or budget-friendly supplements.
Quality isn't compromised for speed, though. Their facility is GMP certified, and they conduct basic testing (HPLC for silymarin content, heavy metal screening) on every batch. They also offer custom packaging, from 25kg drums to 1-ton super sacks, to suit different shipping and storage needs. Their primary markets are domestic Taiwan, China, and India, where demand for bulk botanical extracts is high.
For large manufacturers looking to source milk thistle extract efficiently and affordably, Herbal Roots Wholesale delivers on both fronts. Their focus on bulk supply and quick turnaround makes them a reliable partner for businesses with high-volume needs.
9. Premium Extracts Taiwan
Premium Extracts Taiwan, founded in 2000, lives up to its name by catering to the high-end segment of the market. Specializing in pharmaceutical-grade milk thistle extract, they supply ingredients to some of the world's largest drug companies developing liver medications and clinical supplements. Their extracts meet the strictest global standards, including USP, EP, and JP (Japanese Pharmacopoeia) compliance, making them a trusted partner for regulated industries.
What sets them apart? A focus on purity and consistency. Their silymarin extracts are tested for over 30 impurities, including heavy metals, pesticides, and mycotoxins, with limits far below international standards. They also offer "pharma-grade" extracts with silybin A and B isomers (the most active components of silymarin) standardized to specific ratios, critical for pharmaceutical formulations where efficacy is measured in clinical trials. Their facility is certified to PIC/S GMP standards (Pharmaceutical Inspection Co-operation Scheme), the gold standard for pharmaceutical manufacturing.
While their primary focus is pharmaceutical clients, they also offer a "nutraceutical grade" line for high-end supplement brands targeting health professionals and discerning consumers. This line includes "Silymarin 85%," with a higher silybin content than standard extracts, and "Enteric-Coated Silymarin," designed to bypass the stomach and dissolve in the intestines for better absorption. They also provide comprehensive documentation, including DMF (Drug Master Files) for pharmaceutical clients, to streamline regulatory approval processes.
Exporting primarily to North America, Europe, and Japan, Premium Extracts Taiwan is a behind-the-scenes player in many well-known liver support medications and clinical supplements. For brands prioritizing pharmaceutical-grade quality and regulatory compliance, they're the gold standard in Taiwan.
10. Global Botanicals Trading
Rounding out our list is Global Botanicals Trading, a trader founded in 2018 that specializes in niche and hard-to-find botanical extracts—including unique milk thistle varieties and formulations. While they don't manufacture their own extracts, they partner with small-batch, artisanal producers in Taiwan and across Asia to source products that stand out in a crowded market. This includes organic milk thistle extract from heirloom seed varieties, fermented milk thistle extract (which may enhance bioavailability), and even "cold-extracted" extracts made using traditional methods for natural product brands.
What makes them unique? A focus on storytelling and niche markets. They work with brands targeting specific demographics, such as vegan, gluten-free, or Ayurvedic supplement lines, and can source extracts with certifications like Vegan, Gluten-Free, and Ayurvedic Proprietary Blend. Their small-batch approach (MOQs as low as 5kg) makes them ideal for boutique brands and startups looking to differentiate themselves with unique ingredients.
While they're newer to the scene, Global Botanicals has quickly built a reputation for curation and customer service. They provide detailed "origin stories" for each extract, including information about the farm, extraction method, and traditional uses, helping brands connect with consumers who value authenticity. Their primary markets are North America, Australia, and New Zealand, where niche and artisanal supplements are in high demand.
For brands looking to stand out with unique, story-driven milk thistle extract products, Global Botanicals Trading offers access to ingredients you won't find from larger manufacturers. Their focus on niche markets and curation makes them a valuable partner for businesses looking to carve out a unique space in the industry.
Choosing the Right Milk Thistle Extract Supplier in Taiwan
Taiwan's milk thistle extract suppliers offer something for every need—whether you're a pharmaceutical company requiring USP-grade purity, a startup looking for small-batch organic extract, or a large manufacturer needing bulk quantities at competitive prices. The key to finding the right partner lies in aligning their strengths with your priorities: quality certifications, production capacity, sustainability practices, or customization options.
When evaluating suppliers, consider factors like traceability (can they track your extract from farm to final product?), testing protocols (do they conduct third-party lab tests?), and customer support (are they responsive to technical questions?). Certifications like GMP, ISO, and organic are baseline indicators of quality, but don't overlook intangibles like a commitment to sustainability or a willingness to collaborate on custom formulations.
Ultimately, the best milk thistle extract supplier for you is one that not only meets your technical requirements but also shares your brand values—whether that's innovation, affordability, ethics, or specialization. With Taiwan's reputation for excellence in biotechnology and botanical extracts, you can trust that any of the suppliers on this list will be a reliable partner in bringing high-quality milk thistle extract products to market.
