Milk Thistle Seed Oil Market - Global Industry Research Analysis

Milk Thistle Seed Oil Market Insights

According to Market Research Store, the global milk thistle seed oil market size was valued at around USD 97.55 million in 2023 and is estimated to reach USD 199.11 million by 2032, to register a CAGR of approximately 8.25% in terms of revenue during the forecast period 2024-2032.

The milk thistle seed oil report provides a comprehensive analysis of the market, including its size, share, growth trends, revenue details, and other crucial information regarding the target market. It also covers the drivers, restraints, opportunities, and challenges till 2032.

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Global Milk Thistle Seed Oil Market: Overview

The Milk Thistle Seed Oil Market focuses on oil extracted from the seeds of the milk thistle plant (Silybum marianum), known for its rich content of silymarin, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids. This oil is widely used in dietary supplements, skincare, pharmaceuticals, and functional foods due to its liver-protective, anti-inflammatory, and moisturizing properties. It is available in various forms, including cold-pressed, organic, and blended formulations, catering to health-conscious consumers and the natural skincare industry.

Market growth is driven by increasing consumer awareness of herbal and plant-based wellness products, rising demand for liver-supportive supplements, and growing interest in natural skincare solutions. The shift toward organic and chemical-free personal care products has further expanded the use of milk thistle seed oil in cosmetics and anti-aging formulations. Additionally, its applications in pharmaceutical formulations for liver detoxification and chronic liver disease management contribute to market expansion.

Key Highlights

• The milk thistle seed oil market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 8.25% during the forecast period.
• The global milk thistle seed oil market was estimated to be worth approximately USD 97.55 million in 2023 and is projected to reach a value of USD 199.11 million by 2032.
• The growth of the milk thistle seed oil market is being driven by the increasing demand for natural and herbal remedies, coupled with growing awareness of its potential health benefits.
• Based on the source, the conventional milk thistle seed oil segment is growing at a high rate and is projected to dominate the market.
• On the basis of extraction, the cold pressed milk thistle seed oil segment is projected to swipe the largest market share.
• In terms of application, the pharmaceuticals segment is expected to dominate the market.
• Based on the packaging, the bottles segment is expected to dominate the market.
• Based on the distribution channel, the online retail segment is expected to dominate the market.
• By region, North America is expected to dominate the global market during the forecast period.

Milk Thistle Seed Oil Market: Dynamics

Key Drivers

• Growing Demand for Natural and Organic Products: Consumers are increasingly seeking natural and organic products across various sectors, including food and beverages, personal care, and pharmaceuticals. Milk thistle seed oil, with its potential health benefits, aligns with this trend.
• Liver Health Concerns: Growing awareness about liver health issues, such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and alcohol-related liver damage, is driving demand for natural liver support supplements like milk thistle seed oil.
• Antioxidant Properties: Milk thistle seed oil is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect cells from oxidative damage and support overall health.
• Skincare Applications: Milk thistle seed oil is used in some skincare products due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Restraints

• Price Volatility: The price of milk thistle seeds can fluctuate due to factors such as weather conditions, crop yields, and global demand, impacting the cost of production of the oil.
• Competition from Synthetic Alternatives: Competition from synthetic antioxidants and other liver support supplements.
• Limited Clinical Evidence: While traditionally used, scientific evidence supporting some of the claimed health benefits of milk thistle seed oil may be limited or inconclusive.
• Potential for Drug Interactions: Milk thistle seed oil may interact with certain medications, requiring careful consideration for individuals taking prescription drugs.

Opportunities

• Product Innovation: Developing innovative products incorporating milk thistle seed oil, such as dietary supplements, functional foods, and nutraceuticals.
• Focus on Sustainability: Emphasizing sustainable sourcing and production practices to minimize the environmental impact of milk thistle seed oil production.
• Expanding into New Markets: Exploring new markets and applications for milk thistle seed oil, such as in cosmetics, animal feed, and nutraceutical ingredients.
• Collaborations with Research Institutions: Collaborating with research institutions to further investigate the health benefits of milk thistle seed oil and develop new and improved formulations.

Challenges

• Maintaining Quality and Consistency: Ensuring consistent quality and purity of milk thistle seed oil across different batches and from different sources.
• Addressing Consumer Concerns: Addressing consumer concerns about product safety, efficacy, and potential side effects.
• Staying Competitive: Remaining competitive in a dynamic market with increasing competition from other natural health products and supplements.
• Meeting Regulatory Requirements: Complying with relevant regulations and ensuring the safety and efficacy of milk thistle seed oil products.

Milk Thistle Seed Oil Market: Report Scope

Milk Thistle Seed Oil Market: Segmentation Insights

The global milk thistle seed oil market is divided by source, extraction, application, packaging, distribution channel and region.

Segmentation Insights by Source

Based on source, the global milk thistle seed oil market is divided into conventional milk thistle seed oil and organic milk thistle seed oil.

The Conventional Milk Thistle Seed Oil segment dominates the Milk Thistle Seed Oil Market due to its widespread availability, cost-effectiveness, and higher production volumes. Conventional farming methods allow for greater yield, making the oil more accessible to consumers across various applications, including dietary supplements, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. This segment benefits from well-established supply chains and lower pricing, which attracts both individual consumers and large-scale manufacturers.

On the other hand, the Organic Milk Thistle Seed Oil segment is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing consumer preference for clean-label, chemical-free, and sustainably sourced products. The rising demand for organic health supplements, natural skincare, and eco-conscious products supports the expansion of this segment. However, higher production costs and limited availability may slightly hinder its growth compared to conventional alternatives.

Segmentation Insights by Extraction

On the basis of extraction, the global milk thistle seed oil market is bifurcated into cold pressed milk thistle seed oil, solvent extracted milk thistle seed oil, and supercritical co2 extracted milk thistle seed oil.

The Cold Pressed Milk Thistle Seed Oil segment dominates the Milk Thistle Seed Oil Market due to its superior nutritional profile, purity, and consumer preference for minimally processed, chemical-free extraction methods. Cold pressing preserves the oil’s bioactive compounds, including silymarin, which is highly valued in dietary supplements, skincare, and pharmaceutical applications. Additionally, its organic and natural appeal aligns with the rising demand for clean-label products, further driving its market growth.

The Solvent Extracted Milk Thistle Seed Oil segment holds a significant share due to its cost-effectiveness and higher yield. This method is commonly used in large-scale industrial applications where efficiency and affordability are prioritized. However, concerns regarding residual solvents and chemical processing may limit its adoption among health-conscious consumers.

The Supercritical CO2 Extracted Milk Thistle Seed Oil segment is gaining traction, particularly in the premium market, as it offers high purity and retains essential bioactive compounds without the use of harsh chemicals. Although this method ensures the highest extraction efficiency and product quality, the high production cost makes it less accessible compared to other extraction techniques.

Segmentation Insights by Application

On the basis of application, the global milk thistle seed oil market is bifurcated into pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and personal care, food and beverages, and nutra-ceuticals.

The Pharmaceuticals segment dominates the Milk Thistle Seed Oil Market due to the extensive use of silymarin-rich oil in liver health supplements, detoxification formulations, and treatments for liver diseases such as hepatitis and cirrhosis. The increasing consumer awareness of liver health, coupled with rising cases of liver-related disorders, has fueled demand for milk thistle seed oil in pharmaceutical applications. Additionally, research supporting its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective properties further strengthens its dominance in this market.

The Nutraceuticals segment holds a significant share as milk thistle seed oil is widely incorporated into dietary supplements aimed at liver support, cholesterol management, and immune health. The growing trend toward preventive healthcare and natural supplements has driven demand in this category.

The Cosmetics and Personal Care segment is experiencing steady growth, driven by the rising popularity of plant-based skincare ingredients. The oil’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties make it a valuable component in anti-aging creams, serums, and hair care products, appealing to consumers seeking natural skincare solutions.

The Food and Beverages segment remains a niche but growing area, particularly in functional foods and herbal teas. While its adoption is relatively lower than in pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals, increasing consumer interest in herbal-infused food products may support future market expansion.

Segmentation Insights by Packaging

On the basis of packaging, the global milk thistle seed oil market is bifurcated into bottles, cans, bulk packaging, and single-serve packs.

The Bottles segment dominates the Milk Thistle Seed Oil Market due to its widespread use in retail and pharmaceutical applications. Bottled packaging is preferred for its convenience, ease of storage, and ability to preserve the oil’s quality by preventing oxidation. The demand for bottled milk thistle seed oil is particularly high in the Pharmaceuticals and Nutraceuticals sectors, where consumers seek easy-to-use and properly dosed packaging for liver health supplements and wellness products.

The Bulk Packaging segment holds a significant share, primarily driven by industrial-scale applications in Cosmetics and Personal Care, Food and Beverages, and Pharmaceuticals. Manufacturers and formulators prefer bulk packaging for cost efficiency and large-scale production needs, making it a preferred option for B2B transactions.

The Cans segment is growing steadily, particularly in specialty food and nutraceutical applications. Cans offer enhanced protection against light and air exposure, extending the shelf life of the oil. While less common than bottles, they are gaining popularity in premium and export markets.

The Single-Serve Packs segment is emerging as a promising category, especially in Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods, where convenience and portion control are key factors. These packs cater to health-conscious consumers seeking on-the-go supplements and dietary solutions.

Segmentation Insights by Distribution Channel

On the basis of distribution channel, the global milk thistle seed oil market is bifurcated into online retail, supermarkets and hypermarkets, health food stores, and pharmacies.

The Online Retail segment dominates the Milk Thistle Seed Oil Market due to the increasing consumer preference for e-commerce platforms offering a wide range of products, discounts, and doorstep delivery. The convenience of online shopping, coupled with the ability to compare different brands and read customer reviews, has significantly boosted sales in this segment. Online Retail platforms, including company websites and third-party e-commerce marketplaces, have become major distribution channels, particularly for organic and premium-quality milk thistle seed oils.

The Supermarkets and Hypermarkets segment holds a substantial market share, driven by the growing retail presence of health and wellness products. Consumers prefer purchasing from physical stores to examine product labels, verify authenticity, and access exclusive in-store promotions. Supermarkets and Hypermarkets often stock milk thistle seed oil in their health food or organic products sections, contributing to steady demand.

The Health Food Stores segment plays a crucial role in the distribution of specialty and organic milk thistle seed oils. These stores cater to health-conscious consumers who prioritize natural and herbal supplements. The personalized recommendations offered by in-store experts also contribute to higher consumer trust and brand loyalty.

The Pharmacies distribution channel remains a significant distribution channel, particularly for milk thistle seed oil marketed as a dietary supplement for liver health. Consumers seeking doctor-recommended or pharmacist-approved products prefer purchasing from Pharmacies, where regulated and clinically tested formulations are available.

Milk Thistle Seed Oil Market: Regional Insights

• North America is expected to dominates the global market

North America dominates the milk thistle seed oil market due to its well-established herbal supplement industry, strong demand for natural health products, and increasing consumer awareness of liver health benefits. The increasing focus on liver health and detoxification supplements, along with the growing popularity of organic and plant-based ingredients, has fueled market growth. The presence of key nutraceutical manufacturers and a well-established herbal supplement industry further supports the expansion of this market in the region.

Europe is another major market, with Germany, France, and the UK being key contributors. The region has a long-standing tradition of herbal medicine, and milk thistle is widely used in phytotherapy for liver support. The demand for clean-label, organic, and plant-based ingredients in cosmetics and nutraceuticals is driving market growth. Additionally, strict EU regulations on food supplements and herbal products ensure high-quality production standards, further boosting the credibility and demand for milk thistle seed oil.

Asia-Pacific region is experiencing rapid growth in the milk thistle seed oil market, particularly in countries like China, Japan, and India. The increasing adoption of traditional herbal remedies in modern healthcare, combined with a rising awareness of liver health and detoxification, is driving demand. The cosmetics industry in countries like South Korea and Japan is also incorporating milk thistle seed oil into skincare formulations due to its antioxidant and anti-aging properties. The expanding nutraceutical and organic food industries are further contributing to market growth in this region.

Latin America is an emerging market for milk thistle seed oil, with Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina leading the way. The increasing awareness of natural remedies, herbal supplements, and organic skincare products is driving demand. Additionally, as the region experiences economic growth and improved healthcare access, consumer spending on wellness and natural health products is rising. However, the market is still in its early stages compared to North America and Europe.

Middle East and Africa region is gradually adopting milk thistle seed oil, particularly in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and South Africa. The growing interest in herbal medicine, natural skincare, and dietary supplements is driving market expansion. However, the region faces challenges such as limited awareness and a smaller consumer base compared to other regions. As awareness of herbal and natural health products increases, the demand for milk thistle seed oil is expected to grow.

Milk Thistle Seed Oil Market: Competitive Landscape

The report provides an in-depth analysis of companies operating in the milk thistle seed oil market, including their geographic presence, business strategies, product offerings, market share, and recent developments. This analysis helps to understand market competition.

Some of the major players in the global milk thistle seed oil market include:

• Huacheng Pharmaceutical
• LIVERD Pharma
• Panjin Fengrui
• Panjin Milk Thistle Biology
• Shengbo Silymarin
• TY Pharmaceutical
• Yanbian Yuanshan Oil Technology

The global milk thistle seed oil market is segmented as follows:

By Source

• Conventional Milk Thistle Seed Oil
• Organic Milk Thistle Seed Oil

By Extraction

• Cold Pressed Milk Thistle Seed Oil
• Solvent Extracted Milk Thistle Seed Oil
• Supercritical CO2 Extracted Milk Thistle Seed Oil

By Application

• Pharmaceuticals
• Cosmetics and Personal Care
• Food and Beverages
• Nutra-ceuticals

By Packaging

• Bottles
• Cans
• Bulk Packaging
• Single-Serve Packs

By Distribution Channel

• Online Retail
• Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
• Health Food Stores
• Pharmacies

By Region

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • U.K.
  • France
  • Germany
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Rest of Asia Pacific
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Rest of Latin America
• The Middle East and Africa
  • GCC Countries
  • South Africa
  • Rest of Middle East Africa

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