Mastic is a resinous exudate obtained from the stem and leaves of the Pistacia Lentiscuc tree collected on the island of Chios. When the strips of the bark are removed from the tree, the flow of the resin is increased. Generally two varieties of Mastic are obtained, that which is cleaner found adhering to the trunk of the tree, and that which has fallen to the ground and suffered contamination. The commercial material in the form of adhesives, in lithographic processes, and as a constituent of incense, is usually a pale yellowish or greenish transparent resin.

This extraordinary gum of Greek origin has been used for centuries in treating upper abdominal pain, heartburn, as well as intestinal and gastric ulcers, among other conditions. Since ancient times, mastic has been used as an antiseptic, a food stabilizer, a digestive aid, and much more. Religious books such as the Koran and the Bible, have also mentioned its attributes. Recent studies concur with ancient traditions: mastic is reported to effectively kill

gastrointestinal bacterium Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). This bacterium is the main cause of duodenal, gastric and peptic ulcers. In fact, according to the study, 80% of patients reported symptomatic relief while 70% had significant healing of stomach ulcers.¹

¹ THE NEW ENGLAND JOURNAL OF MEDICINE (ISSN 0028-4793)

 Vol. 339:1946.1946 (December 24, 1998).

Mastic is compatible with a wide range of vegetable oils with cellulose derivatives such as nitrocellulose and ethyl cellulose, but showing slight incompatibility with cellulose acetate. It is readily miscible by heating with asphalts and pitches of a wide variety.M

Mastic is also used by artists in very pale color spirit varnishes for the protection of oil and watercolor paintings. The varnish may be readily removed without injury to painted surface. It is ordinarily sufficiently elastic, although this quality may be improved by the addition of Elemi.

Natural resins are subject to variations due to environmental conditions during
harvest. Therefore, the above parameters may vary.