Mastic Gum

What It Is

Mastic gum is a natural resin obtained from the bark of the Pistacia lentiscus tree, which is native to the Mediterranean region—particularly the Greek island of Chios. This resin hardens into brittle, translucent “tears” that have been used for thousands of years for medicinal, cosmetic, and culinary purposes. Traditionally chewed as a natural gum, mastic has a distinctive pine-like flavor and has been valued since ancient Greek and Roman times for its therapeutic benefits, especially for digestion and oral health.

Chemically, mastic gum contains bioactive compounds such as terpenes (α-pinene, β-myrcene, linalool), polyphenols, and masticadienonic acid—all of which contribute to its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.

How It Works

Mastic gum supports health through several biological mechanisms:

1. Antimicrobial and Antibiofilm Activity: Mastic gum exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial effects, particularly against oral bacteria (Streptococcus mutans) and Helicobacter pylori, the stomach bacterium linked to gastritis and ulcers. It helps inhibit bacterial adhesion and disrupts biofilms, reducing infection risk.
2. Gastroprotective and Digestive Support: The resin’s active compounds soothe the stomach lining, reduce gastric acid secretion, and protect against ulcer formation. Studies have shown that mastic gum can help alleviate symptoms of dyspepsia (indigestion) and may contribute to the healing of peptic ulcers by suppressing H. pylori activity and reducing inflammation in the gastric mucosa.
3. Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects: Mastic gum inhibits inflammatory mediators like prostaglandins and cytokines. It also combats oxidative stress by scavenging free radicals, which contributes to its protective effects on the liver, heart, and overall cellular health.
4. Oral and Dental Health: When chewed, mastic gum increases saliva production, mechanically cleanses teeth, and reduces oral bacterial populations—helping to prevent plaque buildup, gum disease, and bad breath.
5. Lipid and Liver Health: Some research suggests that mastic gum may help lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and triglycerides while improving liver enzyme profiles, possibly through modulation of oxidative and inflammatory pathways.

Why It’s Important

Mastic gum holds a unique place in natural health for its combination of antimicrobial, digestive, and anti-inflammatory benefits. Its importance lies in its multi-system support:

• Digestive Health: It provides a natural alternative for managing chronic gastritis, acid reflux, and H. pylori infections without the side effects associated with long-term antibiotic or acid-suppressing drug use.
• Oral Hygiene: As a natural antibacterial agent, it helps maintain oral health, particularly in cultures that emphasize traditional medicine.
• Anti-Inflammatory Protection: Its bioactive compounds help reduce systemic inflammation, which is a contributing factor in many chronic diseases.
• Metabolic Benefits: Early studies indicate potential roles in balancing cholesterol levels and protecting the liver, which may contribute to cardiovascular health.

These combined effects make mastic gum a versatile supplement for promoting gastrointestinal, metabolic, and oral well-being.

Considerations

While mastic gum is generally regarded as safe and well-tolerated, there are several points to consider:

1. Dosage and Form: It can be taken as chewable resin, capsules, or powder. Typical supplement doses range from 350 mg to 1,000 mg per day, depending on the purpose (digestive support, H. pylori eradication, or general wellness).
2. Allergies and Sensitivities: Although rare, individuals allergic to tree resins or related plants should avoid it.
3. Drug Interactions: There are no widely documented adverse interactions, but caution is advisable if combined with medications affecting stomach acid, liver enzymes, or cholesterol metabolism.
4. Pregnancy and Lactation: Insufficient clinical data exist regarding use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, so avoidance or professional guidance is recommended.
5. Scientific Evidence: While traditional use and early studies are promising, large-scale, long-term clinical trials are still limited. Therefore, mastic gum should be viewed as a supportive therapy rather than a replacement for conventional medical treatment.
6. Product Quality: Authentic Chios mastic gum (PDO – Protected Designation of Origin) is considered the highest quality form. Look for standardized extracts to ensure consistent active compound levels.