Kumizham, gambhar in Hindi and gambhari in Sanskrit, is a fast-growing deciduous tree whose light, stable timber is used for furniture, plywood, drums and carving. Its root is one of the ten roots of the Ayurvedic dashamula, and its fruit is used in Ayurvedic preparations. Because it grows so quickly it is widely planted in Africa and Latin America for timber and pulp.
- Botanical name
- Gmelina arborea Roxb.
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Tamil
- Kumizham
- Hindi
- Gambhar
- Sanskrit
- Gambhāri
- Parts used
- Root and fruit in lists, Timber
- Habit
- Fast-growing deciduous timber tree with yellow-brown flowers
- Last updated
- 2026-10-27
How to recognise Kumizham
It is a medium to large deciduous tree with smooth, pale grey bark that flakes in patches.
The leaves are broad and heart-shaped, with velvety, pale undersides and long stalks.
Showy, tubular, yellow-brown to orange flowers appear in clusters when the tree is leafless.
The fruit is a smooth, oval drupe like a small plum, ripening yellow.
Teak has much larger, rough leaves and tiny white flowers.
Traditional use of Kumizham
Ayurveda
Gambhari root is part of dashamula, and its fruit is used in preparations for thirst and burning sensations.
Ayurvedic practice
Craft
The wood is carved into drums, toys and idols because it is light and does not crack easily.
Indian craft practice
Farming
Its leaves are lopped as fodder for cattle and goats in the dry season.
Indian farm practice
Modern notes on Kumizham
It can grow several metres a year in its early years, which makes it a popular plantation tree.
The timber is used for plywood, matchwood and paper pulp.
Studies on its extracts are mostly laboratory work.
Kumizham safety
Use gambhari only in formulas prepared by a trained practitioner. The tree itself is harmless in gardens and plantations.
Ecology and sourcing
It is native from India and Sri Lanka to South-east Asia and southern China.
Bees and birds visit the flowers, and deer and monkeys eat the fallen fruit.
It has become invasive in parts of Africa and Latin America.
Related plants
Also in Lamiaceae
Questions about Kumizham
What is gambhari?
Its Sanskrit name, one of the dashamula roots.
Is the wood of Kumizham useful?
Yes, for furniture, plywood and carving.
Why is Kumizham planted widely?
It grows very fast.
When does Kumizham flower?
In spring, when leafless.
Is the fruit of Kumizham eaten?
It is used in Ayurveda, and wild animals eat it.
Sources
- Gmelina arborea Roxb. — Plants of the World Online, Kew (search) (accessed 2026)
- Wikidata item Q311345 (Gmelina arborea)
Educational page about a plant. It is not medical advice, not a diagnosis, and not an offer to sell. Traditional use is historical. If you need care, ask a licensed clinician. Questions: hello@meevamed.com.