Greek Mastic

On the Greek island of Chíos or Chios, one of the most refined and appreciated chewing gums in ancient times, Mastic, is produced. The word Mastic comes from the ancient Greek Mastíkhē which means chewing gum.

Mastic is a resin obtained from the Beach Mastic tree (Pistacia lentiscus), and although this plant exists throughout the Mediterranean, the variety that produces mastic resin only grows in the southern part of Chios.

Mastic is a natural resin highly appreciated as incense, for its aromatic and healing properties, as a varnish and even for making drinks and sweets.

Scientific Name: Pistacia lentiscus var. Wheezing.

Origin: Greece.

Aroma: Balsamic aroma, soft and fresh, with notes of lemon.

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Uses of Mastic

In popular medicine it is used to treat stomach pain, respiratory and skin problems. In cooking it is used as an ingredient to add flavor and aroma to sweet and savory dishes, and in perfumery it is used as a fragrance fixative.

 

History of Mastic

Mastic has been used for thousands of years, Herodotus in 5 BC. mentions it, indicating that the Romans chewed it to clean their teeth and freshen their breath.

 

Mastic Collection

To collect the resin, incisions are made in the trunk during the summer, releasing a viscous latex that hardens upon contact with air.

On the island of Chios there are 24 resin-producing towns and these form the municipality of Mastichochoria, which is a region well known for the production of mastic and which derives its name from the resin.

Resin production on the island is controlled by a cooperative of medieval villages, the Chios Mastic Producers Association, which supports local producers, helps in the management of production and encourages scientific research on this plant.