What Is Another Name for Elderberry?

Elderberry: Beyond Its Common Name

Elderberry is a popular medicinal and culinary ingredient, renowned for its benefits and versatility. Beyond the common name, elderberry is known by a range of other names that reflect its cultural significance and geographical origins. This article explores these alternative names and provides insight into the plant's historical and contemporary uses.

Other Names for Elderberry

The elderberry plant goes by numerous aliases depending on its geographical origin and cultural significance:

Arbre de Judas: A French term meaning "Judas' Tree." Baccae: A reference to the berries, which are the primary part of the plant used for medicinal and culinary purposes. Baises de Sureau: This comes from the French word "sureau," which refers to elderberry. Black-Berried Alder: This name reflects the berry color. Black Elder: Another reference to the dark-colored berries. Black Elderberry: Directly refers to the plant. Boor Tree: Common in Germanic regions, often related to its historical use. Bountry Elder: Another local term for the plant. Common Elder: A straightforward name indicating its widespread use.

Other Names in Different Languages

The elderberry plant also has a range of names in different languages, which reflect its usage and cultural significance:

Holunderbeere: In German, this means "elderberry." Sereau or baie de sereau: French names for elderberry, with "baie" meaning "berry." Saúco or baya de saúco: Spanish names, with "sauco" meaning "elderberry."

These diverse names highlight the plant's importance across various cultures and its widespread use.

Additional Plant Names

While elderberry is a popular plant, it's worth noting that it has a plant cousin that is also significant. For example:

Boswellia serrata, commonly known as Indian frankincense, is a plant that produces a resin used in herbal preparations. It has its own set of alternative names, such as:

Salai guggul: In Tamil, referenced in Ayurvedic texts. Sallaki: Another name used in Indian Ayurvedic practices.

Both elderberry and Boswellia serrata have rich histories and cultural significances, with their names reflecting their global presence and usage.

Conclusion

From Judas' Tree to Salai guggul, the elderberry and its cousin Boswellia serrata have many alternative names that are deeply ingrained in various cultures. Understanding these names not only enriches our knowledge of these plants but also enhances our appreciation of their historical and cultural significance. Whether you're a gardener, herbalist, or simply interested in the diversity of names and uses around the world, exploring these alternative names can be both educational and fascinating.