Milk Thistle Extract is a botanical ingredient derived from the seeds of Silybum marianum (Linn.) Gaertn., a well-known medicinal plant used for centuries in traditional health applications. It is best recognized for its standardized flavonoid complex, commonly referred to as silymarin, which includes key compounds such as silybin, isosilybin, silychristin, and silydianin.
Because of its long history of use and broad formulation compatibility, Milk Thistle Extract is widely supplied to manufacturers of dietary supplements, functional foods, pharmaceutical preparations, and nutraceutical products. It is especially valued in liver-support formulas, antioxidant blends, and wellness products designed for modern health applications.
Scientific Background and Traditional Use
Milk thistle has been used for more than 2,000 years, particularly in formulations intended to support liver and gallbladder function. The flowers and seeds of the plant have traditionally been used in herbal medicine, and modern ingredient development continues to focus on the seed extract due to its standardized active profile.
Scientific interest in Milk Thistle Extract is centered on silymarin, a flavonoid complex that has been studied for its role in protecting liver cells from oxidative stress and environmental toxins. It is also associated with supporting protein synthesis in liver tissue and helping maintain normal antioxidant status.
Product Overview
Product Name: Milk Thistle Extract
Latin Name: Silybum marianum (Linn.) Gaertn.
Plant Part Used: Seed
Place of Origin: Liaoning, Inner Mongolia, China
Extraction Type: Solvent Extraction (Acetone/Ethanol)
Active Ingredients: Silymarin, Silybin, Isosilybin, Silychristin, Silydianin
CAS No.: 65666-07-1 / 22888-70-6
Molecular Formula: C25H22O10
Formula Weight: 482.44
Test Method: HPLC / UV
Synonyms:
Silybum marianum, cardus marianus, milk thistle, blessed milk thistle, Marian thistle, Mary thistle, Saint Mary’s thistle, Mediterranean milk thistle, variegated thistle, Scotch thistle, silymarin
Specifications
- 10:1 Brown yellow powder
- Silymarin 45%–60% USP yellow powder
- Silymarin 80% & Silybin + Isosilybin 30% Yellow powder
- Silybin 70%–98% White powder
- Water-soluble Silymarin 10%–45% Brown yellow powder
Manufacturing and Quality Control
At Extracts China, Milk Thistle Extract is produced under controlled extraction and testing processes to help ensure batch-to-batch consistency and reliable quality. The use of seed material as the primary raw source helps maintain stable active compound levels, while solvent extraction is selected to efficiently concentrate the desired silymarin fraction.
Quality control typically focuses on identity, assay, appearance, and consistency of active components. HPLC and UV methods are used to support analytical verification, which is important for ingredient buyers who require dependable raw material performance in finished formulations.
For B2B customers, this level of standardization is especially valuable when developing supplements, capsules, tablets, powders, or beverage systems that require reproducible raw material behavior.
Key Characteristics
Milk Thistle Extract is generally well tolerated and is widely regarded as a botanical ingredient with a strong safety profile when used in standardized forms. In some individuals, because it may support liver and gallbladder activity, it can have a mild and temporary laxative effect.
The extract is known for the following characteristics:
- Standardized botanical actives
- Strong reputation in liver-support formulations
- Suitable for a wide range of nutraceutical applications
- Available in different specifications for product development flexibility
- Compatible with powder, capsule, tablet, and beverage formulations
Functional Applications
Milk Thistle Extract is commonly used in the following product categories:
- Dietary supplements
- Pharmaceutical formulations
- Functional foods
- Sports nutrition products
- Water-soluble beverages
- Healthy lifestyle products
- Herbal capsules and tablets
For formulators, the ingredient offers a practical option when developing products focused on liver wellness, antioxidant support, digestive balance, and general nutritional maintenance.
Main Benefits and Functional Value
- Supports liver health and liver function
- Helps protect liver cells from oxidative stress and toxic burden
- May support normal liver regeneration processes
- May help reduce cellular damage associated with certain stress conditions
- May assist in promoting healthy bile flow and digestive function
- Can be incorporated into wellness formulas targeting menopause-related comfort
- Has been studied for its role in supporting recovery from mushroom poisoning in medical contexts
Solubility and Formulation Notes
Milk Thistle Extract is available in both standard and water-soluble grades, allowing formulators greater flexibility in product design. The water-soluble specifications are especially useful for beverage applications, instant powders, and liquid nutrition systems.
Depending on the target dosage form, manufacturers may choose a higher-silymarin grade for capsules and tablets, or a more dispersible specification for drinks and functional blends. This makes the ingredient suitable for brands seeking both efficacy positioning and formulation convenience.
Storage and Handling
To preserve ingredient quality, Milk Thistle Extract should be stored in a cool, dry, and well-closed environment, away from moisture, strong light, and excessive heat. Proper storage helps maintain powder stability and supports long-term raw material integrity during warehousing and transport.
Packaging and Supply
Milk Thistle Extract is supplied in bulk quantities suitable for manufacturers, distributors, and private-label brand owners. Standard packaging can be arranged according to customer requirements, supporting both trial orders and commercial-scale procurement.
Why Choose Extracts China
Extracts China supplies Milk Thistle Extract with a focus on quality consistency, professional communication, and export-oriented service. We support international buyers who need stable botanical raw materials for supplement manufacturing, functional food development, and ingredient distribution.
Our value to B2B customers includes:
- Reliable supply from a professional botanical ingredient supplier
- Multiple specifications for different formulation needs
- Consistent quality control and analytical testing support
- Practical export service for global buyers
- Flexible purchasing options for manufacturers and wholesalers
FAQ
Can I get samples of Milk Thistle Extract?
Yes, samples can be supplied. Shipping costs are paid by the customer.
How do I place an order or make payment?
A proforma invoice will be issued after order confirmation, along with bank information. Payment methods include T/T, Western Union, or Escrow.
What is your MOQ?
Our MOQ is 1 kg. Smaller quantities, such as 100 g, may be accepted if the sample charge is fully paid.
What is the lead time?
The lead time is usually around 3–5 days after payment confirmation, excluding Chinese holidays.
Is there a discount?
Yes, pricing discounts depend on the order quantity.
How do you handle quality complaints?
Our quality control system is designed to minimize quality issues. If a confirmed quality problem is caused by us, we will provide replacement goods or refund the corresponding loss.
