Smilax aspera is a perennial vine that is widely used in traditional medicine due to its anti-inflammatory properties. It belongs to the genus Smilax, which has over 300 different species. There are several other names for this plant, including sarsaparilla, smilax officinalis, and prickly ivy. Some other synonyms for Smilax aspera include greenbrier, catbrier, and horsebrier. It is primarily found in tropical Asia, but it can also be found in North Africa and parts of Europe. The plant is commonly used in various cultures to treat skin conditions, respiratory problems, and other ailments. Despite its medical value, Smilax aspera is sometimes considered an invasive plant species.