The milk thistle market is estimated to be worth USD 110.5 million in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 375.8 million by 2035, expanding at a CAGR of 8.5% over the assessment period of 2025 to 2035. The industry is undergoing a vigorous pace of expansion due to the heightened consumer reception of the natural products segment and the increasing popularity of herbal medicines.
Silymarin is derived from the plant, which is often heralded for its liver-protective properties and antioxidant benefits. The predominant cause of the market surge is the escalating incidence of liver disorders such as fatty liver, hepatitis, and cirrhosis.
More and more people are using it for detoxing their liver and for overall liver health. Moreover, the trend of herbal supplements for weight reduction, cholesterol management, and anti-inflammatory purposes is also one of the factors driving their sales. The rise of the dietary supplement sector, especially in North America and Europe, is a positive contributor to this market's growth.
The availability of various forms of the products, such as capsules, tablets, tinctures, and tea makes it convenient for different consumers. Moreover, the promotional strategy of organic and non-GMO herbal products is conducive to the practice of sustainable development and the manufacture of high-quality supplements.
By using new extraction and formulation techniques, companies are improving the bioavailability of silymarin and therefore the efficacy of supplements that contain this ingredient such as milk thistle. Combining it with other ingredients, such as liver-support blends and detox supplements, gives it a better market performance.
Nevertheless, the market also encounters a few hurdles: There are not enough studies on the long-term effects of it, there are regulations constraining the claims of herbal supplement product manufacturers, and other herbal ingredients like turmeric and dandelion root can be used as alternatives for improving liver health. At the same time, inconsistency in quality and the lack of standardization among various brands may lead to a decrease in consumer confidence and acceptance.
In spite of these obstacles, there still exist ample opportunities for expanding the segment further. The ever-increasing need for natural and holistic health solutions, accompanied by the boost in funding for scientific studies into it's medicinal properties, are expected to be the master keys to unlock further progress.
| etric | Value |
|---|---|
| Market Size (2025E) | USD 110.5 million |
| Market Value (2035F) | USD 375.8 million |
| CAGR (2025 to 2035) | 8.5% |
The stretch of the technological breakthrough into the area of internet sale and direct-to-consumer channels is also bound to decrease the exigency on stocking the product. Thus the market for it is focused on the huge potential through the years to come, despite the inevitable shifts in consumer preferences toward natural solutions.
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The demand for it is growing with growing consumer awareness about liver health, detox, and herbal supplements. Milk thistle with high silymarin content is being largely utilized in herbal supplements, pharmaceuticals, and functional beverages, thus driving demand in different industries.
For health-conscious consumers and herbal supplement users, organic certification, non-GMO designation, and high silymarin content are key factors in a purchase decision. The pharmaceutical market values scientific affirmation and potency, using its extracts for antioxidant purposes and liver support.
In the animal nutrition market, it is increasingly being touted as a natural ingredient to assist in liver health in livestock, albeit with sensitivity to price remaining high. It finds its place in the functional beverage market in the form of detox drinks and health shots, tapping into natural trends for detox.
As sustainability and ethical practices become industry standards, companies highlighting open supply chains and environmentally friendly packaging are poised to take market leadership.
The table below compares the CAGR of 2024 and 2025 for the industry. Major changes in market performance are captured by the analysis, enabling stakeholders to garner better insights into patterns of revenue realization and growth over the year.
| Particular | Value CAGR |
|---|---|
| H1 (2024 to 2034) | 8.1% |
| H2 (2024 to 2034) | 8.2% |
| H1 (2025 to 2035) | 8.3% |
| H2 (2025 to 2035) | 8.5% |
The table above represents the projected CAGR for the industry demand space over the bi-annual time frame between 2025 and 2035. H1, 2024: The market will achieve growth at a CAGR of 8.1% in H1, 2024, and then slightly increase by 8.2% in H2, 2024. Moving forward, the first half (H1) of 2025 sees a CAGR of 8.3%, and the second half (H2) sees that number rising to 8.5%.
The industry is under a high phase of growth owing to increasing consumer awareness regarding the use of herbal supplements, industrial expansion for liver detox products, and rising adoption of functional food and pharmaceuticals. Growth in e-commerce, direct-to-consumer selling, and scientific confirmation of silymarin's benefits will continue to fuel the growth of the market and its underlying industry over the long run.
The market experienced a positive growth rate from 2020 to 2024, driven by the increasing awareness of consumers for its health-enhancing features, specifically for liver disease and detoxing. The more common occurrence of infections such as liver cirrhosis and fatty liver encouraged its supplementation orders.
The trend was utilized by pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries by manufacturing it in capsule, powder, and liquid extract forms. Studies showing the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of the active compound of milk thistle, silymarin, further contributed to consumer trust and product intake.
Shifting towards natural and plant-derived medication also helped accelerate the demand for it in the dietetic food market and dietary supplement market. Consistency of product, bioavailability, and silymarin content standardization were the main challenges. Improved extraction methods and increased bioavailability of silymarin from 2025 to 2035 will contribute significantly to its demand.
Nano encapsulation and liposomal delivery systems will increase the bioavailability and absorption rates of its supplements. Incorporation of it in functional beverages, herbal teas, and wellness products will expand its market reach.
Individualized nutrition platforms that utilize AI and genetic profiling will allow for health profile-specific suggestions for milk thistle supplementation. In addition, enhanced investment in non-GMO- and organically-grown milk thistle production will address consumers' demand for sustainable and clean-label products.
Regulatory clearance and clinical evidence demonstrating the efficacy of it in managing metabolic disorders and liver ailments will play a pivotal role in creating confidence in the market and growth.
Comparative Market Shift Analysis 2020 to 2024 vs. 2025 to 2035
| 2020 to 2024 | 2025 to 2035 |
|---|---|
| Increased consumer awareness of benefits to liver health. | Improved bioavailability through nanoencapsulation and liposomal delivery. |
| Increased milk thistle supplements, such as capsules and extracts. | Expansion into functional beverages and wellness products. |
| Emphasis on antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity of silymarin. | Personalized nutrition platforms suggesting milk thistle. |
| Demand fueled by increasing liver-related health concerns. | More clinical evidence and regulatory clearances. |
| Difficulty in consistency and bioavailability of silymarin. | Enhanced extraction and formulation processes. |
The global industry growth is led by rising consumer awareness on liver health and demand for herbal supplements. Nonetheless, regulatory scrutiny on herbal products, including quality standards, labelling requirements, and health claims, is posing compliance challenges.
Companies are required to not only comply with all international regulations but also to get the needed certificates for them to be accepted in the market. Supply chain disruptions, for example, seasonal raw material shortages, climate-related agricultural threats, and volatility in manufacturing costs lead to the instability in the market.
Following the supply chain vulnerability, the cultivation field solely in specific geographical areas makes the situation worse. Companies are suggested to allocate funds to establishing alternative sourcing, invest in environment-friendly farming, and harness the latest extraction techniques in order to effectively manage supply chain risks.
The threat of substitute herbal products, including turmeric, ashwagandha, and green tea extract has been considerable thereby affecting the market positioning. Besides, customers look for the multifunctional herbal products, which may lead to changing preferences.
In order to cope with the challenges, companies have to differentiate themselves by offering extra features, making sure their products are highly bioavailable, and coming up with creative product variations, such as capsules, teas, and liquid extracts.
The abundant health myths and the disparity in product quality among the brands have cast doubt on market credibility and consumers' trust. Promoting open and clear product information, involving third parties in the testing process, and backing up the claims with clinical research will be crucial to building the brand trust and consumers' confidence.
Rising Global Demand for Milk Thistle Capsules in Herbal Supplements
| Segment | Value Share (2025) |
|---|---|
| Capsule (Form) | 59.6% |
In the industry, the capsule segment holds the highest market share, which accounted for 59.6% of the market share in 2025. Cannabis capsules provide a method of consumption that is more convenient, accurately dosed, and has a longer shelf life.
Major nutraceutical corporations like NOW Foods, Nature’s Bounty, and Jarrow Formulas have milk thistle capsule supplements on the market, mainly marketed for liver health, detoxification, and antioxidant support. Anything mixed or mixed with other substances has less tolerance than capsules, so capsules are the most consumed form of powder.
The Powder and Granules segment is far behind and accounts for only a 15.0% market share but penetrates the market owing to the increasing inclination of consumers toward customized dosage and functional food applications.
Powdered form is used by fitness enthusiasts, holistic wellness advocates, and herbal supplement users because it allows them to monitor the dosage levels according to the individuals' thoughts and combine the employees in daily nutrition.
Some of the major products in this category include bulk thistle powders from companies like Bulk Supplements and Herb Pharm, so you can easily add it to your smoothie, protein shake, herbal tea, or meal replacement.
Powdered form is becoming popular owing to the overall trend of herbal formulations, traditional medicine, and alternative therapy practices. Bulk powders are less processed and suit a consumer segment that wants natural, plant-based, and organic ingredients, that offer them a more versatile consumption style. Organic-certified powders, using sustainably sourced ingredients, are also gaining in popularity as brands respond to environmentally-conscious consumer preferences.
Expanding Online Sales Driving Growth in Milk Thistle Market
| Segment | Value Share (2025) |
|---|---|
| Online Sales (Distribution Channel) | 47.6% |
In 2025, the industry for online sales will continue to dominate with 47.6% of the market share. This global stealth acquisition of these supplements is made easy by e-commerce sites like Amazon, iHerb, and Vitacost, all of which are increasingly popular, and, in their different ways, growing exponentially.
With a wider array of products at competitive prices available for online purchase alongside the convenience of home delivery, consumers have increasingly flocked to online channels. The growth of digital marketing, health influencers, and all of the digital native direct-to-consumer (DTC) vitamin & sup brands have also added fuel to this fire, increasing sales online.
The Pharmacy Stores segment is a 25.0% market shareholder for which consumer demand is stable owing to their preference for expert pharmacist recommendations, along with assured authenticity and high quality.
The more popular brands are sold in stores and on the websites of leading pharmacy chains like CVS Health, Walgreens, and Boots, especially for liver detoxification, digestive health, and antioxidant benefits. The segment continues to perform well as many consumers depend on physical pharmacies as the origin for obtaining dietary supplements validated by clinical expertise.
Although the online segment is expanding, pharmacies continue to play a crucial role in supplement distribution. Numerous consumers rely upon physical stores to ensure both quality and validate services with actual professionals and have the actual product at hand.
Top pharmaceutical retailers have stepped up their omnichannel strategies, providing buy-online-pick-up-in-store (BOPIS) services and digital pharmacy consultations, thereby merging the world of traditional and digital retail experiences.
| Countries | CAGR (2025 to 2035) |
|---|---|
| USA | 5.2% |
| UK | 4.8% |
| France | 4.5% |
| Germany | 5% |
| Italy | 4.6% |
| South Korea | 4.9% |
| Japan | 4.7% |
| China | 5.3% |
| Australia | 4.4% |
| New Zealand | 4.3% |
The USA industry CAGR for 2025 to 2035 is estimated at 5.2%. The market is growing because consumer demand is shifting towards herbal and plant health solutions. The growing incidence of liver diseases, including fatty liver and alcoholic liver disease, stimulates demand for high-potency silymarin supplements.
Major players in the USA, such as major nutraceutical and pharma players, have introduced high-bioavailability extracts for general wellbeing as well as for medical-grade uses. Functional beverages such as detox drinks and herbal teas are also gaining traction, with companies utilizing them in health-related products to attract a broader base.
Top USA-based wellness firms focus on digital marketing campaigns, influencer marketing, and subscription health products to leverage increasing demand. Sales channels via DTC and e-commerce websites have been a key driver of market growth, enabling customers to shop for high-quality liver health supplements conveniently. Increasing demand for clean-label, organic, and GMO-free products has also further boosted the market, and new products have entered the market to cater to the health-conscious population.
The UK industry CAGR is expected to be 4.8% between 2025 and 2035. The trend towards herbal and plant-based supplements in the country is boosting the demand for its supplements. Preventive medicine and natural health are favored by British consumers, which has driven the sales of silymarin-enriched supplements for detoxifying the liver.
Top herbal supplement brands in the UK incorporate it into multi-purpose formulations, usually blended with dandelion, turmeric, and artichoke extracts for greater liver protection. Relevant only to the UK market is the growth trend of herbal tonics and health drinks. A number of companies are launching milk thistle-enriched drinks for liver detoxification and general gut health.
Additionally, the growing number of vegan and organic supplement businesses has promoted the utilization of environmentally friendly packaging and sustainable materials. Its products have boosted market coverage, and customer reach as online and offline health stores have added more of them.
Growth rate at a CAGR of 4.5% between 2025 to 2035 is projected for the French industry. The established French herbal medicine market stimulates the increasing rate of its supplements. France boasts an established botanic-based health culture with extensive support from a growing trend for natural solutions to liver health among consumers.
Premium silymarin extracts by prominent French nutraceutical firms concentrate on organic and biodynamic production methods for guaranteed product purity. The uniqueness of the French market lies in the addition of milk thistle to functional skincare. As its extracts have such high antioxidant levels, the ingredient is included in increasing numbers of anti-aging creams and protective skin products.
Pharmacy chains also play a key role in distributing the products, with many milk thistle supplements appearing on the same shelves as prescription-based herbal products. The French well-being culture, with its focus on overall health, contributes further to the demand for liver-friendly botanical preparations.
The CAGR of the German industry has been estimated at 5.0% during 2025 to 2035. Germany has a long tradition of practicing herbal medicine, and it is generally accepted for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical uses. In contrast to other nations, Germany includes it in prescription liver medicines, thereby ranking it as the most scientifically established botanical drug.
German pharma industries continue to research novel advanced silymarin extraction methods to deliver high-purity products. One of the unique aspects of the German market is the use of it in cosmeceuticals.
Most skin care products utilize silymarin due to its free-radical-fighting capabilities, resulting in its use in antioxidant-rich creams and serums. Along with this, Germany's standards of quality and penchant for clinically tested herbal drugs make its products stand out internationally.
Italy's industry growth rate is anticipated at 4.6% between 2025 and 2035 CAGR. The country has a strong heritage in herbal and conventional medicine, with milk thistle commonly used as a liver protection agent. Most Italian nutraceutical firms would produce high-strength silymarin, most often in conjunction with Mediterranean vegetable extracts, to optimize the synergistic effect.
One new Italian trend is the application of it in gourmet wellbeing foods. Food companies started to add it into artisan teas, herbal liqueurs, and organic wellbeing drinks. Pharmacy-led sales also remain good, with it being prescribed by pharmacists as part of liver wellbeing programs.
The industry CAGR for South Korea from 2025 to 2035 is estimated at 4.9%. Increased emphasis on liver health due to excessive drinking and urban pressure has driven sales of milk thistle supplements. Functional foods to promote health are South Korea's top priority, and thus, fortified beverages with silymarin, wellness shots, and nutrition supplements are favorites.
The well-developed nutraceutical market in the nation guarantees high-bioavailability formulas, sometimes even blended with conventionally used traditional Korean medicines like ginseng and schisandra for benefit. Among the special trends in South Korea is the incorporation of the industry in K-beauty products.
The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory nature of silymarin qualifies it as a flagship product that is desired for use in skincare products, especially skin detoxification and anti-aging prevention. Mainstream giant South Korean cosmetics feature it in serums, creams, and sleep masks. In addition, the convergent nature of online health portals and retail e-commerce platforms has immensely enhanced the availability of milk thistle-based wellbeing solutions to consumers.
Japan's industry will record a CAGR of 4.7% during the period 2025 to 2035. Japan's increasing aging population, coupled with the country's preference for natural health supplements, have bolstered the demand for milk thistle preventive care. The market has favorable momentum in the form of conventional Kampo medicine products, where it is combined with other herbs for complete liver protection.
Japanese firms put more emphasis on precise formulations, such as purity and science support, in their silymarin-formulated products. Japan's food beverage functional foods market is significantly responsible for driving the industry, with leading firms like Sapporo Breweries, Ito En, and Kirin advertising detox teas and herbal infusions that support liver health.
A second area of distinction is using it in fermented health foods, in keeping with the Japanese taste for gut-friendly foods. Convenience-based forms like capsules with its fortification, powders, and ready-to-eat supplement varieties are also preferred, as are those in Japan's high-speed lifestyle.
China's industry CAGR is projected at 5.3% from 2025 to 2035. Western herbal extracts have been incorporated into Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), triggering mass use of it in liver detox products. Growing worry over liver toxicity caused by pollution, alcohol use, and diet has led consumers to adopt more plant-based wellness products.
It is incorporated into detox teas, liver-protective teas, and traditional wellness blends by Chinese herbal supplement firms. China's booming functional beverage sector is also an important growth engine. Top brands incorporate it into herbal teas, energy beverages, and detox water in order to win over health-savvy buyers.
Furthermore, government initiatives encouraging the exportation of herbal medicine have led to bulk manufacturing of silymarin-based products. Health sites, social media influencer programs, and e-commerce sites have also contributed to the market, with it being distributed far and wide across China's multicultural consumers.
Australia's industry CAGR is expected to be 4.4% during the years 2025 to 2035. The nation's strong preference for organic and natural health products has placed milk thistle at the forefront as a primary ingredient of liver wellness supplements. Australian customers are very conscious of herbal remedies, which leads to demand for high-potency silymarin products in capsule and liquid extract forms.
The industry can have traditional herbal supplement vendors focus on organic certification and environmentally sound sourcing. Amongst the distinctive trends in Australia is the use of milk thistle in animal wellbeing supplements.
Pet well-being companies prepare liver-supporting supplements with silymarin for cats and dogs, proving the increasing phenomenon of natural animal wellbeing. Secondly, the permissive pro-botanical regulatory context in the nation has enabled individuals to find wellness beverages, cleansing beverages, and herb tonics laced with milk thistles across chain supermarkets and well-being food stores.
New Zealand's industry is anticipated to have a CAGR of 4.3% from 2025 to 2035. The market is increasing steadily with the nation's emphasis on herbal wellness and preventive care. Nutraceutical manufacturers in New Zealand make top-quality supplements that are typically mixed with indigenous botanicals such as manuka honey and kawakawa for enhanced wellness.
Domestic demand for organic and locally produced herbal products has contributed to maintaining the increased utilization of silymarin-based products. A recent trend in New Zealand is incorporating it into organic herbal teas and functional health blends.
Specialty tea companies sell it as a detoxifier and digestive, following the consumer trend towards holistic wellness. Growth in international e-commerce and health-focused retail channels has enhanced market access, enabling domestic and foreign brands to target the nation's increasing demand for plant-based liver health ai.
The industry is witnessing slow but steady growth due to a surge in consumer preference for natural supplements for liver health and plant-based nutraceuticals. Increasing awareness regarding detoxification, antioxidant benefits, and holistic wellness has created a whole new level of competition, with some of the old-time nutraceutical firms fighting for a place alongside the new entrants emerging in the herbal supplement space.
All the leading brands, including Nature’s Bounty, Gaia Herbs, NOW Foods, Jarrow Formulas, and Solaray, are investing heavily in enhancing product quality, bioavailability, and organic formulations. The major investments are being directed toward the development of standardized silymarin extracts delivered in novel forms (capsules, tinctures, and functional beverages) with well-built documents for clinical evidence substantiating their efficacy.
The market is evolving toward a penchant among consumers for clean-label, non-GMO, and sustainably sourced herbal supplements. Living on the edge- much of the action North America and Europe are involved in due to drastically high demand for botanical supplements, whilst the Asia-Pacific thrives as the arena for growth with increasing consciousness about herbal medicine.
Some of the strategic points that tilt the competition are discerning certifications (USDA Organic, GMP compliant), transparent sourcing, and the growth of online retail. Companies are currently utilizing direct-to-consumer sales, e-commerce sites, as well as social media marketing to stabilize their brand positioning in the overcrowded milk thistle market.
Market Share Analysis by Company
| Company Name | Estimated Market Share (%) |
|---|---|
| Nature's Bounty | 15-18% |
| Gaia Herbs | 10-14% |
| NOW Foods | 8-12% |
| Jarrow Formulas | 6-10% |
| Solaray | 5-8% |
| Other Players (Combined) | 38-50% |
| Company Name | Key Offerings & Market Focus |
|---|---|
| Nature's Bounty | A leader in premium organic milk thistle supplements, highlighting standardized extracts and herbal purity. |
| Gaia Herbs | Specializes in liquid extracts and high-potency products, utilizing sustainable and organic agricultural methods. |
| NOW Foods | Pricing affordable, high-quality milk thistle products, with third-party testing and clean-label product highlights. |
| Jarrow Formulas | Provides science-backed liver health supplements, integrating bioavailability-enhancing technologies. |
| Solaray | Competes with blended formulations, which add milk thistle to complementary herbs for enhanced liver support. |
Key Company Insights
Nature's Bounty (15-18%)
A dominant player in the herbal supplement space, offering certified organic and high-potency milk thistle extracts with widespread retail distribution.
Gaia Herbs (10-14%)
Specializes in liquid extracts and full-spectrum herbal solutions, targeting premium and wellness-conscious consumers.
NOW Foods (8-12%)
A value-driven brand known for its affordable and lab-tested milk thistle products, widely available online and in health stores.
Jarrow Formulas (6-10%)
It focuses on scientifically formulated liver support supplements, integrating liposomal and standardized extract technologies.
Solaray (5-8%)
Competes in the mid-premium segment, offering herbal blends combining milk thistle with dandelion and turmeric for holistic liver care.
Other Key Players
The industry is expected to generate USD 110.5 million in revenue by 2025.
The market is projected to reach USD 375.8 million by 2035, growing at a CAGR of 8.5%.
Key players include Nature's Bounty, Gaia Herbs, NOW Foods, Jarrow Formulas, Solaray, Swanson Vitamins, Herb Pharm, Solgar, Bronson Vitamins, and Oregon's Wild Harvest.
North America and Europe, driven by increasing demand for natural liver detox supplements and the rising popularity of plant-based nutraceuticals.
Milk thistle extract capsules and tinctures dominate due to their high potency, ease of consumption, and growing use in liver support and antioxidant supplements.
By form, the industry is further categorized into capsule, powder and granules, liquid extract, lubricating, and specialty oils.
By distribution channel, the industry is further categorized into pharmacy stores, hypermarkets/supermarkets, convenience stores, and online.
By region, the industry is segmented into North America, Latin America, Eastern Europe, Western Europe, East Asia, South Asia & Pacific, Central Asia, Balkan and Baltic Countries, Russia & Belarus and the Middle East & Africa.
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Milk Thistle Market
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