Elderberry
Elderberry
Elderberry (Sambucus) is a genus of flowering plants in the family Adoxaceae. The various species are commonly called elder or elderberry.
Pronunciation
Elderberry: /ˈɛldərˌbɛri/
Etymology
The term "elder" comes from the Old English word "æld". In Old English, "æld" meant "fire", as people used the hollow stems of elder plants as bellows to blow air into a fire. The "berry" part of "elderberry" is self-explanatory, referring to the fruit of the elder plant.
Description
The elderberry plant is a shrub or small tree that can reach a height of up to 6 meters. It has compound leaves, white or cream-colored flowers, and dark purple berries. The berries are used in traditional medicine for their purported health benefits.
Related Terms
- Sambucus: The genus to which elderberry belongs.
- Adoxaceae: The family of flowering plants that includes the elderberry.
- Traditional medicine: The use of natural substances, such as elderberry, for medicinal purposes.
Uses
Elderberries have been used in traditional medicine for centuries. They are believed to boost the immune system and help fight off viruses. Elderberries are also used in food and beverages for their flavor and color.
Precautions
While elderberries are generally safe to consume, they should be cooked before eating to neutralize potentially harmful substances. Raw elderberries, as well as other parts of the elder plant, can cause nausea, vomiting, and other symptoms if ingested.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Elderberry
- Wikipedia's article - Elderberry
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