Mastic gum (Pistacia lentiscus) is a unique resin that comes from a tree grown in the Mediterranean. For centuries, the resin has been used to improve digestion, oral health, and liver health. It contains antioxidants that are said to support its therapeutic properties.
Practitioners of alternative medicine have long touted mastic gum as a natural remedy for indigestion, acid reflux, peptic ulcers, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), respiratory problems, gum disease, and various bacterial or fungal infections. The aromatic oils in mastic gum—the flavor of which is best described as a mix between pine and eucalyptus—can also help fight bad breath.
Depending on your individual need, mastic gum can be chewed as gum or used in powders, tinctures, and capsules. You can also apply mastic essential oil topically to help treat certain skin conditions.
