The moonseed family refers to a group of flowering species that are found in various parts of the world. Members of this family are characterized by their unique fruit, which resembles a crescent moon. This family is also known as the Menispermaceae, or moonseed vine family. Other synonyms for the moonseed family include the snailseed family and the snake vine family. Some species within this family are renowned for their medicinal properties, while others are used to make dyes and poisons. Despite the many variations within the moonseed family, the crescent-shaped fruit remains a defining feature of all its members.