Lepidium is a genus of flowering plants that belong to the family Brassicaceae. This genus comprises over 200 species of annual or perennial herbs, many of which are known for their medicinal properties. Some commonly recognized synonyms for the word "lepidium" include pepperweed, peppercress, and stonecrop. These synonyms are often used interchangeably in literature and popular culture to refer to any one of the numerous species of Lepidium. Pepperweed, for instance, is a common synonym used in North America to refer to some species of Lepidium that are used as a peppery seasoning or a natural remedy for different ailments.