Question 1

What is Careya arborea used for in Ayurveda?

Accepted Answer

Careya arborea is used in classical Ayurveda primarily as a component of the ten-root formulation known as Dashamula. Its root bark, stem bark, and flowers are employed in preparations for inflammation, skin conditions, fever, and respiratory complaints. Different parts of the tree carry different therapeutic properties, and it is rarely used in isolation.

Question 2

What is the Sinhala or local name for Careya arborea?

Accepted Answer

Careya arborea is known in Sinhala as 'Katu Kohomba' or 'Wel Kohomba' in some regions, and in Sanskrit Ayurvedic texts it is referred to as 'Kumbha'. Common English names include wild guava and slow match tree, the latter referring to the historical use of its fibrous inner bark as tinder.

Question 3

Where can Careya arborea be found in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

The tree grows naturally in the dry and intermediate zones of Sri Lanka, particularly in the North Central, North Western, and Eastern provinces. It is commonly seen in dry monsoon forests, scrubland margins, and along seasonal stream edges. Protected areas such as Wilpattu National Park support healthy populations.

Question 4

What does Careya arborea fruit look like?

Accepted Answer

The fruit is a large, rounded, fleshy berry typically 7 to 8 centimetres in diameter with a tough, greenish-brown outer rind. A persistent calyx remains attached at the top of the fruit, which is a helpful identification feature. The interior is spongy and contains multiple seeds surrounded by fibrous pulp.

Question 5

Is Careya arborea the same as Kumbha in classical texts?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Careya arborea is widely identified with the plant called Kumbha in Sanskrit ayurvedic literature. It is listed as one of the five large roots in the Brihat Panchamula group, which forms the basis of the classical Dashamula compound used extensively in traditional South Asian medicine.

Question 6

Can Careya arborea be grown in a home garden in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

The tree can be grown in home gardens, particularly in the dry and intermediate zones, and is occasionally found near temples and village compounds. It tolerates poor soils and requires minimal maintenance once established, but grows best where there is a pronounced dry season. It is not commonly available in nurseries and is typically propagated from seed.

Question 7

What research has been done on Careya arborea?

Accepted Answer

Phytochemical studies have identified tannins, saponins, flavonoids, and triterpenoid compounds in the bark and leaves of Careya arborea, supporting some of its traditional anti-inflammatory and astringent uses. Laboratory studies have explored antimicrobial and antioxidant activity, though rigorous clinical trials in humans remain limited. Research interest in the species has grown alongside broader scientific attention to South Asian ethnobotany.