What Is Mastic Gum? What It Helps With and How to Use It

Quick answer: Mastic gum is a natural resin from the mastic tree (Pistacia lentiscus) traditionally chewed for oral and digestive comfort. Some studies suggest it may help with symptoms like indigestion or occasional reflux and support oral hygiene, but evidence varies and it is not a substitute for medical care. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, managing a health condition, or take regular medicines, talk with a health professional before using it.

What is mastic gum?

Mastic gum is the dried sap (resin) of the mastic tree, harvested mainly on the Greek island of Chios. When chewed, the resin softens into a gum-like texture and releases aromatic compounds.

In wellness circles, mastic gum is used in a few main ways:

• Oral care: freshening breath and supporting gum comfort.
• Digestive comfort: easing occasional bloating, indigestion, or unsettled stomach.
• Everyday ritual: a low-sugar chew for people who prefer a natural resin over flavoured gum.

How mastic gum may work in the body

Mastic resin contains a mix of terpenes and other plant compounds. Lab and early human research has looked at how these compounds may influence oral bacteria, digestive inflammation pathways, and the stomach environment. That said, the dose, form (resin tears, capsules, chewing gum), and product quality can change the experience.

Potential benefits people look for

1) Fresh breath and oral comfort

Chewing increases saliva flow, which can help rinse the mouth. Traditional use and some research suggest mastic may help reduce odour-causing bacteria, though results depend on the product and how consistently it is used.

2) Digestive comfort

Many people try mastic gum for occasional indigestion or reflux-like symptoms. Small studies have explored mastic for functional dyspepsia and other digestive complaints. We recommend treating it as an optional support, not a guaranteed fix, and checking in with a clinician if symptoms are persistent, severe, or worsening.

3) Support during stomach bug seasons

You may see mastic discussed in relation to stomach bacteria (including H. pylori). Some research has explored this, but clinical guidance usually focuses on medical testing and evidence-based treatment plans. If you suspect H. pylori, a health professional can advise on testing and the right approach.

If you would like to compare forms, you can start with a simple product and track how you feel over 2 to 4 weeks. For shoppers in New Zealand, you can find resin and capsule options like Chios mastic gum or Chios mastic capsules.

What the research says (and what it does not)

Mastic gum has a long history of traditional use, but modern research is still limited. When you read claims online, it helps to separate three buckets:

• Lab studies: these look at mastic compounds in test tubes. They can be useful for hypotheses, but they do not prove real-world results in people.
• Small human studies: these may report improvements in symptoms like dyspepsia, but sample sizes are often small and product types differ.
• Clinical care guidelines: these are what clinicians use to make decisions. For conditions like ulcers or confirmed H. pylori infection, guideline-based care is usually centred on testing and prescribed treatment plans, not supplements alone.

Our take: mastic gum can be a reasonable option for people who want to try a traditional resin for oral care or mild digestive comfort, but it is not a cure-all. If you have red-flag symptoms (severe pain, vomiting blood, black stools, unexplained weight loss, difficulty swallowing), seek medical care promptly.

Mastic gum forms compared

How to use mastic gum

There is no single best method. The right choice depends on your goal, your teeth and jaw comfort, and whether you want a chew or a swallowable format.

• Resin tears (chewing): start with a small piece and chew slowly until it softens. Some people chew 10 to 20 minutes, then discard.
• Capsules: convenient if you do not enjoy chewing resin. Follow the label directions.
• Chewing gum products: easier texture and flavour options, but check for sweeteners and additives if you are sensitive.

Tip: if resin feels very hard at first, hold it in your mouth for a minute to warm it before chewing.

Dosage and timing

Because products vary, label directions are the safest starting point. Many studies have used daily amounts in the hundreds of milligrams to grams, often split into 1 to 3 doses. A practical approach is:

• Start low for the first week.
• Increase only if you tolerate it well.
• Pause if you notice unwanted effects.

If you are using mastic as part of a plan recommended by a clinician, follow their timing and dosing instructions.

How to build a simple trial plan

If you are new to mastic gum, a structured trial keeps things clear and reduces guesswork.

1. Pick one goal: for example, fresher breath after meals, or digestive comfort in the evening.
2. Choose one format: resin tears or capsules, not both at once.
3. Set a short window: 2 weeks for oral comfort, 4 weeks for digestive comfort.
4. Track 1 to 2 signals: jaw comfort, breath, reflux-like symptoms, bloating, or stool changes.
5. Decide: continue, adjust the dose, or stop if it is not helping.

Keep the rest of your routine steady during the trial so you can tell what is doing what.

What to look for in a good-quality mastic gum product in NZ

• Clear source: Chios mastic is a commonly referenced origin.
• Minimal additives: especially if you are sensitive to sweeteners, fillers, or flavours.
• Freshness and storage: resins can harden and lose aroma over time. Keep sealed, cool, and dry.
• Transparent labelling: mg per serve, suggested use, allergen statements, and batch details where available.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

• Chewing too much, too soon: start with a small piece to reduce jaw fatigue.
• Expecting instant digestive changes: digestive comfort often needs consistency and may not respond at all.
• Ignoring the label: capsules can vary a lot in mg per serve. Always check the serving size.
• Using it to self-treat serious symptoms: supplements are not a substitute for medical testing and treatment.

Storage and freshness

Mastic resin can harden and pick up odours if left open. For best results:

• Store in the original pouch or an airtight container.
• Keep it cool, dry, and away from heat sources.
• If you live in a warm part of New Zealand, avoid leaving it in a car or near a sunny window.

If the resin becomes very brittle, it can still be usable, but the chew may be less pleasant.

Mastic gum and H. pylori questions

People often ask about using mastic gum for H. pylori. The key point is that H. pylori is diagnosed with specific tests, and treatment plans are typically prescribed by clinicians. Supplements may be discussed as complementary, but they are not a replacement for medical care.

• When to take it: if you are using mastic gum as a general supplement, many people take it away from meals, but the best timing depends on the product and your stomach comfort.
• If you are on antibiotics: ask your pharmacist before adding any supplement. It may be sensible to separate supplements and medicines by a couple of hours.
• If symptoms persist: reflux, upper abdominal pain, nausea, or appetite changes that do not settle deserve a proper assessment.

Can you combine mastic gum with other habits?

For oral care, mastic gum works best as a small add-on, not a replacement for brushing and flossing. For digestion, it is often paired with basic habits that can move the needle more reliably:

• Eating slowly and stopping before you are overly full.
• Limiting trigger foods that clearly worsen symptoms for you.
• Reducing late-night meals if reflux is an issue.
• Managing stress and sleep, since gut comfort can be stress-sensitive.

If you are using mastic gum during a lifestyle reset, introduce one change at a time so you can identify what helps.

Side effects, downsides, and safety

Mastic gum is generally well tolerated for many people, but it can cause issues in some situations:

• Jaw fatigue: resin can be tough to chew, especially at first.
• Digestive upset: nausea, stomach discomfort, or changes in bowel habits can happen, particularly at higher doses.
• Allergy: avoid if you have known sensitivity to Pistacia species (for example, mastic, pistachio, or related plants).

If you develop a rash, swelling, breathing difficulty, or severe symptoms, stop use and seek urgent medical help.

Is it suitable for vegetarians, vegans, or common allergies?

Mastic resin itself is plant-derived and is typically suitable for vegetarian and vegan diets. The details depend on the product format:

• Capsules: check whether the capsule shell is bovine gelatine or a plant cellulose capsule.
• Chewing gums: check for beeswax, shellac, or other animal-derived processing aids, plus sweeteners and flavours.
• Allergens: avoid if you have known sensitivity to Pistacia species, and always review the label for potential cross-contamination statements.

FAQs

What is mastic gum and what is it used for?

Mastic gum is a resin from the mastic tree. People chew it for fresh breath and oral comfort, and some use it as a supplement for digestive comfort. Use varies by product form, and it should not replace medical advice.

What does mastic gum do for you?

For some people, it supports a fresher mouth feel and may help with occasional indigestion. Research is still developing, and outcomes depend on dose, product quality, and the reason you are using it.

Can I chew mastic gum every day?

Many people do, especially for oral care. Start with a small amount and pay attention to jaw comfort and digestion. If you have ongoing symptoms or take regular medicines, check with a health professional.

What are the disadvantages of mastic gum?

The resin can be hard at first, which may tire your jaw, and some people experience digestive upset. Quality varies between brands, so sourcing and additives matter.

Who should avoid mastic gum or talk to a health professional first?

Talk to a clinician first if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have allergies to Pistacia species, have a long-term health condition, or take prescription medicines. Seek medical advice if you have persistent stomach pain, reflux, unexplained weight loss, or blood in vomit or stool.

How do you choose a good-quality mastic gum product in New Zealand?

Look for clear sourcing (often Chios), minimal additives, and transparent labelling that lists the amount per serve and allergen information. Buy from reputable retailers with good storage practices.

Can mastic gum interact with medications or other supplements?

There is limited interaction data. Because supplements can affect digestion and absorption, it is sensible to separate dosing from medicines by a couple of hours and to ask a pharmacist if you use regular medications.

How long does it take for mastic gum to work?

For breath and mouth feel, you may notice an effect the same day. For digestive comfort, many people reassess after 2 to 4 weeks of consistent use, while keeping in mind that results are not guaranteed.

Next steps

• Shop Chios mastic gum
• Shop Chios mastic capsules
• Browse our Healthy Blog
• Mastic Gum Benefits: Benefits and What to Expect
• Mastic Gum Side Effects: Safety, Risks and Interactions
• How to take mastic gum
• Mastic Gum Dosage: Dosage Guide
• Does Mastic Gum Work: What the Evidence Says

References

• PubMed search: mastic gum
• NIH Office of Dietary Supplements: fact sheets
• Cochrane Library
• Medsafe NZ: medicines and safety information