mèdula

Mèdula is a term with multiple meanings, primarily referring to the soft, marrow-like substance found within certain structures. In biological contexts, it most commonly denotes the bone marrow, the spongy tissue inside bones that produces blood cells. This vital tissue is divided into red bone marrow, responsible for hematopoiesis, and yellow bone marrow, which primarily stores fat.

Beyond bone marrow, "mèdula" can also refer to the pith or core of plant stems, a parenchymatous tissue that often serves as a storage site. In some botanical descriptions, it is the central, spongy part of a young stem or root. The term is also used metaphorically to describe the essential or core part of something, its innermost essence or substance.

The etymology of "mèdula" traces back to the Latin word "medulla," meaning marrow, pith, or innermost part. This linguistic origin highlights the consistent association of the term with a central, soft, or essential component across different applications. Understanding the context is key to correctly interpreting the specific meaning of "mèdula."