Mastic gum comes from the resin (sap) of the Pistacia lenticus evergreen shrub, which is part of the cashew family. The reason mastic is called mastic gum, is that it was historically used as chewing gum, and as a spice for at least 2,400 years. It continues to be used as a spice in Greece, Turkey and Lebanon to flavour liquors, cakes, pastries, and desserts.
In addition to being a popular chewing gum, mastic gum has also been used as medicine for thousands of years for the treatment of infections of the skin and lungs. More recently, research has focused on one particular subtype of mastic called chios because of its variety of medicinal benefits.
Top Health Benefits of Mastic Gum
Antimicrobial
All types of mastic gum have anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties, and it has long been used to support skin disorders and other infections. Historically mastic gum was even used to treat bronchial infections. Currently research has found it to be effective in destroying mouth bacteria, and helping to eradicate H. pylori infections.
Ulcers and H. pylori
Mastic gum has been shown to help eliminate H. pylori in the digestive tract, a bacterium that can cause gastritis and peptic ulcers. Current research is showing that mastic gum must be taken for longer periods of time to be effective in this manner.
Interestingly, supplementation for only 2 weeks has been shown to benefit peptic ulcers, by reducing symptoms and helping to promote healing.
There is some conflict as to whether mastic gum can actually eliminate H. pylori infection. In general, research suggests that mastic gum must be taken for at least a month to significantly reduce H. pylori levels, as two weeks of supplementation is not sufficient.
Dental Health
Chewing mastic gum can reduce bacterial plaque in the mouth by up to 41%. It has been shown to help prevent tooth decay and gingivitis as well. This is likely why mastic gum was used for thousands of years to freshen the breath. Of note for current health, good oral health is tightly linked with digestive and cardiovascular health.
Cholesterol Regulation
Regular consumption of mastic gum has been clinically shown to balance cholesterol levels, which can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Further research is required to establish this effect, but the initial results are promising.
Chios Mastic Gum (Mastica Chios)
The chios type of mastic gum (mastica chios), has been more extensively researched than any other subtype. Research has found a benefit of chios mastic gum for healthy cell growth. It has also been found to be directly anti-inflammatory, particularly in the digestive tract. Many healthcare practitioners will suggest chios mastic gum for the treatment of: leaky gut, ulcers, colitis, and IBD.
Selecting Quality Mastic Gum Supplements
Both regular and chios mastic gum are available in supplement capsules, both alone and in combination formulas. The dosage varies depending on the target of treatment, but in general the dose is 1g daily with food. Treatment of H. pylori with mastic gum generally takes one month or longer. Systemic benefits are seen when taking mastic gum daily on an ongoing basis. For oral and skin health, it must be chewed or used topically to see the full benefit.
