Gum mastic is a resinous, aromatic substance that comes from the trunk and the thickest branches of the gum mastic tree.

This exudate is obtained by the incising of the tree² trunk and branches with a sharp tool. The gum mastic resin then exudes through these incisions.

The word “mastic” is most probably derived from the Greek verb “masso” which means “to chew” or from the ancient Greek word “mastix” which means “whip”, because in earlier times the gum

mastic tree was whipped instead of incised.³

²The gum mastic tree belongs to the Pistacia lentiscus species, which is a slow-growing evergreen shrub 2-3 meters high.

It grows to full height after 40-50 years. From the fifth year on it begins to yield gum mastic. It can live over 100 years.

³The incising process is called “kentima” in Greek, which literally translates as “pricking with a needle” or “embroidering”.

The Gum Mastic Tree sheds its tears only in Chios

Trees or shrubs belonging to the Pistacia lentiscus species are indigenous to various regions, particularly the eastern Mediterranean coast, northern Africa, but also South America, where it is mainly ornamental.

The Greek island of Chios is the only place in the word where the trunk and the branches of this tree “shed tears”², which then dry and harden producing the sweet-smelling gum mastic resin.

Although the trees and shrubs grow all over the island, the production of gum mastic resin is carried out only in the medieval villages in the southern region of Chios called Mastichochoria (=Gum villages).

Areas only slightly north of these villages do not enjoy this privilege. It is no wonder then that Chios is virtually synonymous to the production of gum mastic. Some say, in fact, the name “Chios” is devired from Phoenician and means “mastic”.

Gum Mastic A tear which delights, Scents Relieves and Heals!

The range of gum mastic’s beneficial properties has been known since antiquity. Today it is exported everywhere in the word in large or small quantities and is used in various fields:

Dentistry

Gum mastic helps to ensure dental hygiene also strengthening the gums and cleansing the mouth,

which is why it is an ingredient in toothpastes and mouth washes.

It is an ingredient in fillings for cavities, crowns and gaps between teeth.

The aromatic liquid eugenol, which is contained in gum mastic oil, is used as a dental antiseptic and pain killer.

Pharmaceuticals

· Mastic Gum kills Helicobacter pylori

The New England Journal of Medicine December 24, 1998, Vol.339, No.26

“Even low doses of mastic gum – 1 mg per day for two weeks- can cure peptic ulcers very rapidly, but the mechanism responsible has not been clear. We have found that mastic is active against Helicobacter pylori,

which could explain its therapeutic effect in patients suffering from peptic ulcers.”

FAHRHAD U. HUWEZ, M.R.C.P., PH.D. General Hospital Barnet

Barnet, Herts EN5 3DJ, United Kingdom

DEBBIE THIRL WELL, B.SC. ALAN COCKAYNE, PH.D. DLAWER A.A. ALA’ALDEEN, PH.D.,

M.R.C. PATH. University Hospital

Nottingham NG7 2UH, United Kingdom

· The effects of gum mastic on diabetes, cholesterol and triglycerides is being researched by universities

in Greece and abroad.

· Gum mastic is used in ointments for burns, frostbite, skin conditions and in the preparation of plasters.

Applications in surgery

The gum mastic of Chios, as well as its by product colophon, are used to make surgical thread for suturing.

(Such stitches are absorbed be the skin and do not have to be removed.)

To attach bandages, the drug MASTISOL (made in the USA) containing gum mastic is used, as this ingredient

does not irritate the skin in the application of bandages and it also sterilises the wound.

Perfumery

· Gum mastic oil is used as a perfume and a stabiliser in perfumes.

Cosmetics

· Gum mastic oil is a basic ingredient in facial creams as it both cleanses the face and brightens the complexion.

It is also used in other cosmetics.

Confectionery

· Gum mastic can be served on a spoon dunked in a glass of cold water and it is also used in preparing other

confections such as Turkish delight and candy as well as in glazes.

Alcoholic beverages

· The drink “Masticha” is consumed as an aperitif while there is also a Masticha liqueur. As an ingredient it is

contained in many other alcoholic beverages.

Industrial products

· Gum mastic and its by-products are excellent paint stabilisers especially in artist’s paints.