Ayurvedic Properties
- Also Known As
- English: Red Bead Tree
Sanskrit: रक्तकम्बल
Hindi: बड़ी गुमची
What is Red Bead Tree?
Before modern scales, jewelers in India weighed gold against seeds. The bright red seeds of the Red Bead Tree (Raktakambal) were used for exactly that.
The Bhavaprakash Nighantu records it in its group of aromatic substances (Karpuradi Varga). Its botanical name is Adenanthera pavonina Linn., in the legume family (Leguminosae/Mimosaceae), and it is known in Hindi as Badi Gumchi. It is a large tree found in Western and Southern India.
Medicinally, its bark and seeds are used as an emetic, something that induces vomiting, and as a tonic.
Benefits of Red Bead Tree
Our sources record two uses for the bark and seeds of the Red Bead Tree. They are quite different in character.
As an emetic
The bark and seeds are used to induce vomiting. In Ayurveda, controlled vomiting is a deliberate cleansing measure, carried out under a practitioner's supervision, not something to attempt at home.
As a tonic
The same parts are also described as a tonic, meaning something that strengthens. Our sources give no detail on which conditions this applies to.
What our sources do not cover
Our record gives no taste, potency or dosha effect for the Red Bead Tree, and we hold no modern research on it.
How to Use Red Bead Tree
Because one of its main uses is to induce vomiting, the Red Bead Tree is not a herb for self-care. Our sources give no dose.
| Form | Dose | Best For | When to Take |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bark | Not given in our sources; practitioner only | Emetic, tonic | Only as prescribed |
| Seeds | Not given in our sources; practitioner only | Emetic, tonic | Only as prescribed |
Our sources describe no vehicle (Anupana) or seasonal guidance.
Safety & Side Effects
The key fact for safety is the one our sources state plainly: the bark and seeds are used as an emetic. Taken without supervision, that means you may end up vomiting.
Sensible precautions
- Do not take the bark or seeds on your own; use them only under a practitioner's care.
- The bright red seeds can attract children. Keep them out of reach and do not let children swallow them.
- Our sources record no drug interactions or contraindications. That is missing data, not proof of safety.
Recommended: Start Here
The Red Bead Tree is an emetic and a tonic, with no dose recorded in our sources. That makes reading and advice a better first step than buying.
One clear path: if you are interested in it, read how the Bhavaprakash Nighantu places it among its aromatic substances, and ask a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner before using the bark or seeds in any form.
Find the Bhavaprakasha Nighantu ↗ Ayurvedic Plant Guides ↗
Safety note: the bark and seeds induce vomiting, so do not take them without supervision, and keep the seeds away from children.
Red Bead Tree vs Other Herbs & Supplements
Our sources do not compare the Red Bead Tree with other herbs. The useful distinctions are between its parts and its uses.
| Comparison | Red Bead Tree | Alternative | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seeds as weights vs seeds as medicine | Bright red seeds used by jewelers as weights | The same seeds used as an emetic and tonic | Decorative and practical use is not a reason to swallow them |
| Emetic use vs tonic use | Induces vomiting, under supervision | Strengthening tonic | Both need a practitioner; our sources give no dose for either |
Red Bead Tree for Specific Populations
Our sources give no population-specific guidance for the Red Bead Tree. Its emetic action calls for caution in every group.
Pregnancy & Nursing
No guidance in our sources. Avoid it unless your practitioner specifically approves it.
Children
Do not give it to children. Its bright red seeds are attractive to them, so store them out of reach.
Elderly
No specific guidance. Induced vomiting is demanding on the body, so a practitioner should decide.
Athletes
No performance use is described.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Raktakambal?
Raktakambal is the Sanskrit name for the Red Bead Tree, Adenanthera pavonina Linn. In Hindi it is called Badi Gumchi.
Why were its seeds used by jewelers?
Its bright red seeds were used as weights for measuring precious metals and stones.
Which parts are used medicinally?
The bark and the seeds, as an emetic and as a tonic.
Where does it grow?
It is a large tree found in Western and Southern India.
Can I take it at home?
Not on your own. It induces vomiting and our sources give no dose, so use it only under a practitioner's care.
Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.