PUBLISHER: Stratistics Market Research Consulting | PRODUCT CODE: 1700024
PUBLISHER: Stratistics Market Research Consulting | PRODUCT CODE: 1700024
According to Stratistics MRC, the Global Milk Thistle Extracts Market is growing at a CAGR of 6.8% during the forecast period. Milk Thistle Extract is derived from the seeds of the milk thistle plant (Silybum marianum) and is known for its powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The active compound, silymarin, is widely used to promote liver health, detoxify the body, and support digestive function. It is commonly found in dietary supplements, herbal remedies, and cosmetics due to its therapeutic benefits. Milk thistle extract is believed to protect liver cells, aid in the regeneration of damaged liver tissue, and combat oxidative stress.
Growing awareness of liver health
The need for herbal supplements like milk thistle is growing as consumers become more aware of the importance of liver health to general wellbeing. Milk thistle is used extensively for its ability to support liver function and detoxify the liver because of its active compound, silymarin. The significance of these supplements has been underlined by the rise in liver-related health problems brought on by bad lifestyle choices, alcohol use, and environmental pollutants. Additionally, the growing adoption of preventive healthcare practices has made milk thistle a preferred choice among health-conscious individuals.
Lack of standardization in products
Variability in the quality, potency, and formulation of products can reduce consumer trust and hinder market growth. This lack of consistency often arises from differences in raw material sourcing, manufacturing processes, and regulatory oversight. Moreover, the absence of unified quality standards for herbal supplements poses challenges for market expansion in certain regions. Such inconsistencies can make it difficult for consumers to determine which products are safe and effective. As a result, the need for standardized formulations and clear labeling is critical to address this restraint.
Rising preference for organic and non-GMO products
Growing consumer awareness of environmental sustainability and health is driving the market for milk thistle extracts to favor more organic and non-GMO goods. Concerns regarding the detrimental impacts of synthetic chemicals and genetically modified organisms (GMOs) on the environment and human health are growing among consumers. Because organic and non-GMO products are seen as safer and more natural, there is a greater demand for them. Organic milk thistle extracts are growing in popularity as a result of customers' desire for products devoid of dangerous additives, pesticides, and genetically modified components as well as a shift towards holistic health practices.
High competition from other herbal supplements
Products like turmeric, ashwagandha, and ginseng offer similar health benefits and compete for consumer attention. The wide availability of alternative herbal remedies creates challenges for milk thistle products to stand out in the crowded supplement market. Additionally, aggressive marketing strategies by competing brands can limit milk thistle's visibility and market share. The constant evolution of consumer preferences for trendy or newly introduced supplements further intensifies this competition. To mitigate this threat, companies must focus on effective branding and differentiation to highlight the unique benefits of milk thistle.
The COVID-19 pandemic had both positive and negative effects on the Milk Thistle Extracts Market. Supply chain disruptions and logistical challenges during the pandemic initially hampered the availability of milk thistle products. However, the heightened focus on immunity and overall health during the crisis created opportunities for growth. Consumers turned to herbal supplements like milk thistle to enhance their health and support liver detoxification. The pandemic also accelerated the adoption of online retail, making milk thistle products more accessible to a broader audience.
The silybin segment is expected to be the largest during the forecast period
The silybin segment is expected to account for the largest market share during the forecast period. Silybin, being the most active component of silymarin, is widely researched for its liver-protective properties. Its effectiveness in promoting liver detoxification and combating oxidative stress has made it a main ingredient in dietary supplements. The increasing integration of silybin in nutraceuticals, pharmaceuticals, and functional foods is driving the market. Moreover, advancements in extraction techniques are improving the bioavailability of silybin, further boosting its demand.
The health food stores segment is expected to have the highest CAGR during the forecast period
Over the forecast period, the health food stores segment is predicted to witness the highest growth rate. These stores are emerging as the go-to destination for consumers seeking specialized products like milk thistle extracts. The personalized shopping experience and product variety offered by health food stores appeal to health-conscious buyers. Additionally, the increasing focus on wellness and nutrition has led to a surge in demand for herbal supplements at such outlets. Health food stores often provide educational resources and guidance, helping consumers make informed purchasing decisions.
During the forecast period, the Asia Pacific region is expected to hold the largest market share, due to increasing awareness of liver health and the growing adoption of herbal medicine in traditional wellness practices. As people become more health-conscious, the demand for natural remedies like milk thistle for liver detoxification rises. Additionally, the region's large population, coupled with the rising prevalence of liver diseases, especially in countries like China and India, boosts the market.
Over the forecast period, the North America region is anticipated to exhibit the highest CAGR, driven by growing emphasis on liver health and detoxification, along with the increasing demand for natural and plant-based supplements. Rising consumer awareness about the benefits of herbal products, coupled with a trend towards holistic wellness, fuels market growth. Additionally, the aging population, high prevalence of liver-related diseases, and strong retail presence in the U.S. further contribute to the demand for milk thistle extracts.
Key players in the market
Some of the key players in Milk Thistle Extracts Market include DSM Nutritional Products, Herb Pharm, Nature's Way, Gaia Herbs, Swanson Health Products, Jarrow Formulas, Solgar Inc., Now Foods, Organic India, Sambucol, Starwest Botanicals, Piping Rock Health Products, BASF SE, Eden Botanicals, and NutraScience Labs.
In March 2025, DSM-firmenich Animal Nutrition & Health has announced a partnership with Zenkei Company Limited, a premier livestock nutrition company, to advance sustainability in Japan's feed and egg production sectors. The two organisations have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to implement dsm-firmenich's Sustell(TM), the industry-leading life cycle assessment (LCA) platform to measure and improve the environmental footprint of animal proteins.
In July 2024, BASF launched Haptex(R) 4.0, an innovative polyurethane solution for the production of synthetic leather that is 100% recyclable. Synthetic leather made with Haptex 4.0 and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) fabric can be recycled together using an innovative formulation and recycling technical pathway without the need of layer peel-off process.