Pronunciation: [ɡˈambi͡ə] (IPA) 
The word "gambir" is sometimes spelled as "gambier" or "gambir extract", but the correct spelling is "gambir". The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /ɡæmbɪr/. The stress falls on the first syllable, which is pronounced with a hard "g" sound followed by the short "a" vowel sound, and then the "m" and "b" sounds. The second syllable is pronounced with the short "i" vowel sound and the "r" sound at the end.
Gambir is a noun that refers to a substance commonly used as an astringent, especially in Southeast Asian countries. It is derived from the leaves of the Uncaria gambir plant, a species belonging to the Rubiaceae family. The extract from these leaves is primarily used for its pharmacological properties.
In traditional medicine, gambir is known for its effectiveness in treating various health conditions. It is commonly used as a herbal remedy for gastrointestinal disorders, such as diarrhea, dysentery, and indigestion. The astringent properties of gambir tighten and constrict the tissues, reducing excessive fluid loss and promoting healing. It is also utilized for its antiseptic and antimicrobial properties, aiding in the prevention of infections and soothing inflamed tissues.
Furthermore, gambir is utilized as part of traditional remedies for oral care. Its astringent qualities make it beneficial in relieving mouth sores, gum inflammation, and toothache. Gambir is often combined with other natural ingredients to create oral rinses or applied directly to the affected areas.
Apart from its medicinal uses, gambir is also employed in various industries. It is a common ingredient in the manufacturing of leather and textiles, where it acts as a natural dye and tanning agent, giving the materials a brown color. Additionally, gambir is utilized in the food and beverage industry as a natural food additive and a flavoring agent.
Overall, gambir is a versatile substance that has proved its worth in many applications, including traditional medicine, oral care, dyeing, and flavoring.
Catechu (Br.), an extract from the leaves of Ourouparia gambier, pale catechu; employed in diarrhea in doses of gr. 7 1/2-15 (0.5-1.0).
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "gambir" has its origins in the Malay language. It comes from the Malay word "gambir" or "gambier", which refers to a type of climbing shrub belonging to the genus Uncaria, specifically Uncaria gambir. The shrub is native to Southeast Asia, particularly Indonesia and Malaysia. The word "gambir" is also used to refer to the extract obtained from the leaves and twigs of this plant, which is widely used in traditional medicine, as well as in the production of dyes and tanning agents.
