The Power Of Nature

Mastic gum is a resin, or sap-like substance, that comes from the mastic tree that grows on the Greek island of Chios. It has been used for centuries as an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial qualities.

Mastic gum is recommended for the relief of stomach disorders and for the symptomatic support of minor inflammatory skin conditions and wounds, as an aid in the healing of minor wounds.

Lets take a look at some of the other reported uses

Digestive Conditions
It has been reported that mastic gum can be used to relieve abdominal discomfort, pain, and inflammation. Mastic gum’s positive effect on digestion may be due to the antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds it contains.

H-pylori Bacteria
A 2010 study found that mastic gum may kill off Helicobacter pylori bacteria. Researchers found that 19 out of 52 participants successfully cleared the infection after chewing mastic gum for two weeks. Participants who took an antibiotic in addition to chewing mastic gum saw the highest success rate. H. pylori is a gut bacterium related to ulcers. It’s become antibiotic-resistant, but mastic gum is still effective. 

Ulcers
H-pylori infections can cause peptic ulcers. Research suggests that the antibacterial properties of mastic gum can fight H. pylori bacteria and six other ulcer-causing bacteria. This may be due to its antibacterial, cytoprotective, and mild antisecretory properties. Researchers found that doses as low as 1 mg per day of mastic gum inhibited bacterial growth.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Research presented in a review suggested that mastic gum may help ease the symptoms of Crohn’s disease, which is a common form of IBD. In one small study, people who took mastic gum for four weeks experienced a significant decrease in the severity of their inflammatory symptoms. Researchers also found decreased levels of IL-6 and C-reactive protein, which are markers of inflammation.

Cholesterol
A 2016 study found that mastic gum can have a positive effect on cholesterol levels. Participants who took mastic gum for eight weeks experienced lower levels of total cholesterol than those who took a placebo. People who took mastic gum also experienced lower blood glucose levels. Glucose levels are sometimes associated with high cholesterol levels. Researchers also found that mastic gum had a greater effect on people who were overweight or obese.

Liver Health
According to one 2007 study, mastic gum may help prevent liver damage. Participants who took 5g of mastic gum powder for 18 months experienced lower levels of liver enzymes related to liver damage than participants who did not.

Dental Health
It has been reported that chewing mastic gum may help prevent cavities. Those who chewed mastic gum had lower levels of certain bacteria in their mouths. These bacteria can lead to plaque and gum disease.

Allergic Asthma
Mastic gum has anti-inflammatory properties that may make it useful in treating allergic asthma. This type of asthma often includes airway inflammation, eosinophilia, and airway hyper-responsiveness. In vitro tests found that mastic gum inhibited cells that react negatively to allergens and cause airway inflammation. 

Chios mastic is available in gum, capsules or powder
It is not recommended during pregnancy or whilst breastfeeding