Milk Thistle Market

Milk Thistle Market Size

The global milk thistle market size was valued at USD 98.6 million in 2023 and is projected to grow from USD 105.3 million in 2024 to USD 176.1 million by 2031, exhibiting a CAGR of 7.63% during the forecast period.

The global rise in health-conscious consumers seeking alternative and preventive healthcare solutions has significantly fueled the demand for herbal products, such as milk thistle, as consumers prioritize natural supplements for overall wellness and liver support.

In the scope of work, the report includes products offered by companies such as Indena S.p.A., Euromed S.A, LIVERD PHARMA CO., LTD., Panjin Shengbo Silymarin Extraction Co., Ltd., Bio Answer Holdings Inc, Amway International Inc, NOW Foods, Inner Mongolia Ever Brilliance Biotechnology Co, Ltd, Nestlé Health Science, Jarrow Formulas, Inc., and others.

The milk thistle market is characterized by the growing popularity of herbal supplements and natural health products, particularly for liver health and detoxification. Milk thistle, known for its active compound silymarin, is available in various forms such as capsules, powders, and liquid extracts.

The market benefits from increasing consumer interest in plant-based remedies and wellness solutions. Its appeal extends across diverse geographical regions, with both traditional and modern health-conscious consumers seeking its benefits for general health maintenance.

• According to the Journal of Hepatology, liver diseases account for over two million deaths annually, representing 4% of global fatalities. Despite being the eleventh leading cause of death, liver-related deaths may be underreported. This increasing prevalence highlights a growing demand for solutions such as milk thistle.

The milk thistle encompasses the cultivation, production, and distribution of milk thistle-based products, valued for their health benefits, particularly in promoting liver health. Milk thistle, known for its active compound silymarin, is recognized for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to its use in dietary supplements, herbal remedies, and wellness products.

The market includes various forms of milk thistle products. It caters to a growing consumer base seeking natural, plant-based alternatives for improving liver function, detoxifying the body, and enhancing overall health, with a strong presence across multiple regions due to rising health consciousness and demand for preventative care.

Analyst’s Review

With an aging global population, the demand for liver health supplements, such as milk thistle, is likely to rise, prompting manufacturers to focus on high-quality, effective formulations to strengthen their market position.

• According to the United Nations, the global population aged 65 and above is expected to increase from 10% in 2022 to 16% by 2050. This demographic shift is fueling demand for liver health supplements such as like milk thistle.

By enhancing product efficacy and diversifying delivery formats, companies are attracting a broader consumer base. Ongoing research to validate the benefits of milk thistle further builds consumer trust and fosters market expansion. This emphasis on quality, innovation, and research ensures the continued growth and relevance of milk thistle in the health supplement sector.

• In May 2023, Solgar partnered with The Great Run Company as its Official Wellness Partner. The collaboration focuses on enhancing product efficacy, diversifying delivery formats, and investing in research to attract a broader consumer base.

Milk Thistle Market Growth Factors

The rising awareness of liver health and the increasing prevalence of liver-related diseases are contributing significantly to the growth of the milk thistle market. As consumers become more conscious of the importance of liver detoxification, milk thistle, known for its liver-supporting properties, has gained immense popularity as a natural supplement. This increased awareness is aiding market growth, with more individuals seeking natural alternatives for liver health.

• In June 2024, the American Liver Foundation’s Liver Life Advocates program raised awareness about liver diseases, emphasizing the need for enhanced research and public health education. This initiative has contributed to the growing demand for milk thistle.

A key challenge in the milk thistle market is the lack of standardization and potency in product formulations. This variability can result in inconsistent therapeutic effects, making it difficult for consumers to identify effective products.

To address this challenge, manufacturers should implement stricter quality control measures, conduct extensive research to establish standardized formulations and ensure accurate labeling. Collaboration with industry experts and regulatory bodies may help set guidelines to improve product consistency, build consumer trust, and bolster market growth.

• The American Herbal Products Association (AHPA) promotes responsible and sustainable commerce of herbal products, including milk thistle, to ensure consumers’ access to safe, high-quality goods. Through self-regulation and collaboration with industry experts, AHPA addresses challenges such as product standardization, ensuring consistency and reliability in herbal formulations.

Milk Thistle Industry Trends

A notable trend in the market is the rising preference for natural supplements. Consumers are increasingly shifting away from synthetic medications in favor of holistic health solutions, leading to the increased popularity of herbal supplements like milk thistle. As more individuals prioritize natural wellness options, milk thistle’s role as a trusted liver health supplement continues to expand, addressing the demand for safer, plant-based alternatives.

The rapid growth of e-commerce has significantly influenced the milk thistle market, propelled by consumers’ preference for the convenience of online shopping.

E-commerce platforms provide easy access to a wide range of health supplements, including milk thistle, allowing consumers to compare options, read reviews, and receive direct deliveries. This trend has fueled the expansion of the market, further supported by the increasing popularity of online sales in the health supplement industry.

• As per the USA Department of Commerce, global B2C e-commerce is expected to grow at a 14.4% compound annual growth rate, highlighting the rise in online sales of health supplements, such as milk thistle, by providing greater consumer access and convenience.

Segmentation Analysis

The global market has been segmented based on application, distribution channel, form, and geography.

By Application

Based on application, the market has been segmented into liver health, antioxidant support, anti-inflammatory, skin health and others. The liver health segment led the milk thistle market in 2023, reaching a valuation of USD 34.6 million. This growth is largely attributed to increasing consumer awareness of liver-related diseases and a growing preference for natural health supplements.

Milk thistle, renowned for its liver-supporting properties, is increasingly sought after as a natural remedy for detoxification and liver health maintenance. The global shift toward natural products, combined with increasing research validating the benefits of milk thistle, is further contributing to segmental growth. Additionally, manufacturers are diversifying formulations to cater to evolving consumer needs, thus boosting the expansion of the segment.

By Distribution Channel

Based on distribution channel, the market has been segmented into pharmacies, supermarkets, hospitals and clinics, online retailers and others. The pharmacies segment secured the largest revenue share of 35.54% in 2023.

Pharmacies are the primary distribution channel for milk thistle, as they are trusted sources for health supplements and medications. Consumers rely on pharmacies for liver health products due to their accessibility, expert guidance, and regulatory oversight. As demand for natural remedies like milk thistle grows, pharmacies play a crucial role in offering a wide range of formulations and educating customers, further boosting product availability and consumer trust.

By Form

Based on form, the market has been classified into capsule, powder & granule, liquid, and others. The powder & granule segment is poised to witness significant growth, registering a CAGR of 8.58% through the forecast period.

Milk thistle supplements in powder & granule forms are expected to experience significant growth, driven by increasing consumer demand for convenient and versatile options. These formats are particularly appealing for easy incorporation into daily routines, such as mixing with smoothies or beverages. As awareness of milk thistle's liver health benefits increases, these flexible forms provide a practical solution, further contributing to the expansion of the segment.

Milk Thistle Market Regional Analysis

Based on region, the global market has been classified into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, MEA, and Latin America.

The Asia-Pacific milk thistle market held a notable share of around 36.61% in 2023, with a valuation of USD 36.1 million. Asia Pacific is emerging as a leading region due to increasing demand for traditional herbal remedies and natural health supplements.

The surging adoption of milk thistle for liver health benefits, coupled with rising disposable incomes, an expanding middle class, and increased awareness of liver health, are propelling regional market growth. Additionally, the high prevalence of liver-related diseases in the region has further fueled demand for milk thistle supplements.

• In October 2024, the APAC Liver Disease Alliance organized the "Hep-Free" summit in Bangkok, focusing on eliminating hepatitis in Asia. The event underscores the growing importance of liver health in the region, driving awareness and boosting demand for liver-supporting supplements such as milk thistle.

Europe milk thistle market is set to grow at a CAGR of 7.83% through the projection period. This growth is primarily fostered by increasing awareness of liver health and a rising consumer preference for natural, plant-based supplements. The demand for milk thistle in Europe is further fueled by the growing prevalence of liver diseases, along with consumer preference for holistic wellness solutions.

Moreover, established herbal product markets in several European countries contribute to the expansion of milk thistle in various forms, such as capsules, powders, and teas. Additionally, regulatory support and increased consumer trust in the efficacy of natural products bolster the growth of the Europe market.

Competitive Landscape

The global milk thistle market report will provide valuable insight with an emphasis on the fragmented nature of the industry. Prominent players are focusing on several key business strategies such as partnerships, mergers and acquisitions, product innovations, and joint ventures to expand their product portfolio and increase their market shares across different regions.

Strategic efforts such as investing in research and development, setting up new production facilities, and optimizing supply chains could open up new avenues for market expansion.

List of Key Companies in Milk Thistle Market

• Indena S.p.A.
• Euromed S.A
• LIVERD PHARMA CO., LTD.
• Panjin Shengbo Silymarin Extraction Co., Ltd.
• Bio Answer Holdings Inc
• Amway International Inc
• NOW Foods
• Inner Mongolia Ever Brilliance Biotechnology Co, Ltd
• Nestlé Health Science
• Jarrow Formulas, Inc.

Key Industry Developments

• June 2024 (Launch): Gaia Herbs launched the industry's first Certified Organic Milk Thistle Gummies, featuring European-standardized Milk Thistle extract. These gummies offer a concentrated, full-spectrum Silymarin dose of 100mg per serving, ensuring effective liver support. The formulation uses a high-quality extract from a trusted European supplier.
• April 2024 (Launch): Doctor’s Best Introduced Glutathione + Milk Thistle with Setria, a supplement designed to support liver health and antioxidant activity. The formula combines clinically proven Setria glutathione, which enhances glutathione levels, and milk thistle extract, rich in silymarin content, to promote detoxification, energy production, and overall liver function.

The global milk thistle market has been segmented as:

By Application

• Liver health
• Antioxidant support
• Anti-inflammatory
• Skin health
• Others

By Distribution Channel

• Pharmacies
• Supermarkets
• Hospitals and Clinics
• Online Retailers
• Others

By Form

• Capsule
• Powder & Granule
• Liquid
• Others

 By Region

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
  • Mexico
• Europe
  • France
  • UK
  • Spain
  • Germany
  • Italy
  • Russia
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia-Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Rest of Asia-Pacific
• Middle East & Africa
  • GCC
  • North Africa
  • South Africa
  • Rest of Middle East & Africa
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Argentina
  • Rest of Latin America