"Milk thistle is native to southern Europe, southern Russia, Asia Minor, and northern Africa. It also grows in North and South America and South Australia. Silymarin is considered to be the main component of milk thistle seeds, but the terms “milk thistle” and “silymarin” often are used interchangeably. Historically, people have used milk thistle for liver disorders, such as hepatitis and cirrhosis, and gallbladder problems. Silymarin is the most commonly used herbal supplement in the United States for liver problems. Milk thistle products are available as capsules, powders, and extracts."