Milk Thistle Market Size (2024 - 2029)

Milk Thistle Market Analysis

The Milk Thistle Market size is estimated at USD 115.27 million in 2024, and is expected to reach USD 174.93 million by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 8.70% during the forecast period (2024-2029).

The global market for milk thistle is on the rise, driven by its benefits in treating liver and biliary disorders. Its key component, silymarin, is renowned for shielding liver and kidney cells from drug-induced harm, notably from chemotherapy. Milk thistle has shown promise in lowering liver enzyme levels and exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties, along with modulating T cells. Preclinical studies underscore milk thistle's hepatoprotective and anticarcinogenic properties, including its ability to impede cancer cell growth in various human cell lines, such as those from the prostate, skin, breast, and cervix. Moreover, the supplement is widely regarded as safe and well-tolerated, with minimal side effects—primarily gastrointestinal discomfort and mild laxative effects—making it increasingly popular among health-conscious consumers.

Milk thistle's rising incorporation in anti-aging skincare products is driven by its numerous benefits. The primary compound in milk thistle, silymarin, offers significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which are crucial for addressing signs of aging. These antioxidants protect skin cells from oxidative stress caused by environmental factors such as UV radiation and pollution, which can result in photoaging, fine lines, and wrinkles. Thus, cosmetics manufacturers are increasingly incorporating milk thistle in their products. For instance, Paula's Choice incorporates milk thistle into its cosmetics, asserting its skin benefits, including anti-aging properties, dark spot reduction, and promoting an even skin tone.

Moreover, Asia-Pacific dominates the milk thistle market, buoyed by its rich heritage in herbal medicine and a rising embrace of Ayurvedic practices. The region's growing awareness, especially in developing nations, of milk thistle's benefits, coupled with a surging demand for Ayurvedic tea variants, propels market expansion. Factors such as a heightened focus on liver well-being, rising incomes, a robust presence of industry leaders, and supportive regulations collectively fortify Asia-Pacific's leading stance in the global milk thistle landscape.

Milk Thistle Industry Segmentation

Milk thistle, also known as silymarin, is a botanical plant that belongs to the daisy and ragweed family. The plant is known for its antioxidant properties, which are primarily derived from the seeds of the milk thistle plant. The global milk thistle market is segmented by form, application, distribution channel, and geography. By form, the market is segmented into extract, powder, and whole. By application, the market is segmented into dietary supplements, food and beverage, and cosmetics. By distribution, the market is segmented into retail and industrial. By geography, the market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Rest of the World. The market sizing has been provided in value terms (USD) for all the abovementioned segments.