蒺

A plant characterized by sharp, piercing thorns that cause acute pain or injury upon contact. In pharmacological contexts, it refers to a materia medica ingredient used for clearing heat and treating skin conditions.

Rarely appears in isolation; most frequently found in the compound 蒺藜 (jílí). When encountered alone, it is likely an abbreviation for this compound.

The presence of the component 疾 (jí), meaning pain or acute distress, underscores the plant's character as an irritant.

Avoid using "gorse" or "furze," as these are European approximations. Depending on the register of the text, prefer "thorny weed," "prickle-grass," or "puncture vine."