COMMON ELDER Meaning and
Definition
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The term "common elder" refers to a shrub-like plant species scientifically known as Sambucus nigra, which belongs to the Adoxaceae family. This deciduous plant is commonly found in Europe and North America, growing in damp woodlands, hedgerows, and disturbed areas. It typically reaches a height of 2 to 6 meters and is characterized by its multiple stems and compound leaves with 5 to 7 leaflets.
The common elder is known for its distinct and aromatic flowers, appearing in clusters known as cymes, which can range from creamy white to pale yellow. These flowers bloom in late spring and early summer, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies. Following pollination, the flowers give way to small, dark purple to black berries, which are consumed by birds and small mammals.
In addition to its ornamental value, the common elder has long been utilized for its medicinal and culinary properties. Its flowers are often used in herbal remedies for their diaphoretic and immune-stimulating properties, notably as teas or tinctures to alleviate colds, coughs, and fevers. The berries, on the other hand, are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, showcasing potential anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
However, caution should be exercised as the other parts of the common elder, especially the leaves, stems, and unripe berries, contain small amounts of a toxic compound called cyanogenic glycoside, which can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea if ingested. Proper processing, cooking, or drying is necessary to neutralize this toxicity before consumption.
Common Misspellings for COMMON ELDER
- xommon elder
- vommon elder
- fommon elder
- dommon elder
- cimmon elder
- ckmmon elder
- clmmon elder
- cpmmon elder
- c0mmon elder
- c9mmon elder
- conmon elder
- cokmon elder
- cojmon elder
- comnon elder
- comkon elder
- comjon elder
- commin elder
- commkn elder
- commln elder
Etymology of COMMON ELDER
The word "common elder" has its etymology in Old English and Middle English.
The term "common" originated from the Old English word "cymmene", which means "public" or "general". This word evolved into "common" in Middle English, retaining its general meaning.
On the other hand, "elder" comes from the Old English word "ellærn", which is a combination of "ellr" meaning "elder tree" and "ærn" meaning "berry". Over time, "ellærn" transformed into "ellen", and eventually "elder" in Middle English.
As a result, the term "common elder" refers to the elder tree, a shrub-like tree that bears blackish berries known as elderberries, commonly found in Europe and North America.
Similar spelling words for COMMON ELDER
- common eland,
- common milkwort,
- common lettuce,
- commonweal,
- common lynx,
- commonwealth,
- common land,
- common mullein,
- common louse,
- common laburnum,
- common alder,
- common law,
- common eel,
- common lilac,
- common limpet.
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