What exactly is Milk Thistle and do you recommend taking it?

I've taken it off and on for a while. I usually take it when I drink too much and need to give my liver some help! I use the brand Solaray. It fits the stregnth of what I read to be right per day. It will not harm you if you follow the label dirsctions. Asprin or any FDA approved drug could harm you, too! Milk thistle is even listed in Davis's Drug Guide. It is used for: cirrhosis, hepatitis, gallstones, mushroom poisoning antidote, and liver toxicity. The only listed adverse effects are: laxative effect, nausea, and allergic reactions. Dosage for adults is: 420mg/day containing 70-80% Silymarin (the active component of the plant). Drink water too, to cleanse. This should help, I hope!