Mastic Gum - Properties and Storage

Mastic gum (masticha, mastix, mastiha) is a natural resin obtained from the tree Pistacia lentiscus, which grows in the Mediterranean region. Traditionally it has been used as natural chewing gum and as a dietary supplement that may support digestion and oral hygiene.

This guide explains what mastic gum is, how to use it, how to chew it, how to grind it into powder and how to store it properly.

Mastic Gum – Quick Facts

• Scientific name: Pistacia lentiscus
• Type: natural plant resin
• Main origin: Mediterranean region, especially the island of Chios (Greece)
• Traditional use: natural chewing gum and digestive support
• Common forms: raw tears, powder, capsules, chewing gum, mastic oil
• Storage: cool place below 18 °C

Table of Contents

• Properties of Mastic Gum
• Masticlife Brand
• Usual Dosage
• General Tips
• How to Chew Mastic Gum
• How to Store Mastic Gum
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Buy Mastic Gum

Properties of Mastic Gum

Mastic gum is a natural plant resin. Because it is a resin, its physical properties change depending on temperature and storage conditions.

1. Mastic gum reacts to temperature. It becomes softer in warm conditions and harder in colder temperatures.
2. Piece size affects texture. Larger pieces are usually softer, while smaller pieces dry faster and become harder.
3. Different pieces are suitable for different uses. Medium or large pieces are usually better for chewing, while smaller pieces are easier to grind into powder.
4. Color indicates freshness. Whiter resin usually means fresher mastic gum, while yellow pieces indicate older resin that may be harder.

• More information about grinding resin into powder can be found here: Mastic gum powder.
• Practical instructions for chewing raw mastic are available here: How to chew raw mastic.

Masticlife Brand – Original Chios Mastic Gum

Masticlife products come from authentic mastic gum harvested on the Greek island of Chios. The brand cooperates with the official producer organization: the Chios Mastic Gum Growers Association.

Usual Dosage (Use) of Mastic Gum

The recommended dosage depends on the product form. Mastic gum is commonly available as raw resin, powder, capsules, sachets or chewing gum.

Always follow the dosage instructions written on the product packaging.

General Tips for Use

• Take mastic gum capsules or powder on an empty stomach, usually about 30 minutes before meals.
• Swallow capsules with enough water.
• Masticlife capsules use HPMC vegan capsules.
• If you need help swallowing capsules, see: How to swallow mastic capsules.
• Mastic gum is a natural resin and it does not dissolve in water.
• If you are unsure whether mastic gum is suitable for you, consult a doctor.
• If mastic powder sticks together due to heat, it usually does not lose its taste or properties.

How to Chew Raw Mastic Gum

1. Take a small piece of raw mastic resin.
2. Place it in your mouth and start chewing slowly.
3. At first the resin may feel hard or crumbly.
4. After a short time it softens and becomes elastic like chewing gum.
5. Continue chewing for several minutes.

Raw resin pieces are often called mastic tears. They are natural crystals and can vary in size, shape and hardness.

How to Store Mastic Gum

1. Mastic gum powder, capsules and sachets should be stored in a cool place, ideally below 18 °C.
2. A refrigerator is suitable for long-term storage.
3. If exposed to higher temperatures, natural mastic powder may stick together and form lumps.
4. If this happens, gently tap the container to break the powder apart again.
5. If needed, you can crush the resin manually following this guide: How to crush mastic gum powder.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mastic Gum

What is mastic gum?

Mastic gum is a natural resin obtained from the tree Pistacia lentiscus, which grows mainly in the Mediterranean region.

Where does authentic mastic gum come from?

The most famous source of mastic gum is the Greek island of Chios.

Can mastic gum be used as chewing gum?

Yes. Raw mastic resin has traditionally been chewed as a natural chewing gum.

Does mastic gum dissolve in water?

No. Because it is a natural resin, mastic gum does not dissolve in water.

How should mastic gum be stored?

Mastic gum should be stored in a cool place, ideally below 18 °C.

Quick Overview

Category	Details
Properties	Sensitive to temperature (soft in summer, hard in winter) Larger pieces remain softer longer Medium or large pieces are better for chewing White resin is fresher, yellow resin is older
Types	Raw tears / crystals Powder (capsules, sachets) Chewing gum Mastic oil
Usage	Capsules usually taken 30 minutes before meals Powder or capsules taken with water Raw resin can be chewed
Storage	Store below 18°C Refrigeration recommended Powder may clump in heat but remains usable
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