The expensive mastic is extracted from the resin of the tree (Pistacia lentiscus). It is also called the "white tears of Chios". Even the ancients used it as a natural remedy for strengthening the teeth, and then it was also a commodity for exchange and export, as it is today popular in Europe and the world.
A number of serious studies indicate that mastic acts antibacterially, against caries and periodontitis.
Those who have more often been on vacations and travels in Greece and the Mediterranean Sea, probably already recognize the mastic tree. It is a wild relative of the pistachio - one of the most valuable subtropical nut crops. It is also known as tree or Persian pistachio and also as pistachio.
On the Greek island of Chios in the Aegean Sea, mastic has long been a trademark and an incredible economic product. Only here, under its bark, the mastic tree has canals filled with resin, which is internationally famous and very expensive.
From ancient chewing gum to effective mouthwash
Mastic is very useful for the health of the oral cavity and teeth. It has been that way since biblical times, and it is that way today. What is even more valuable is that it is a natural raw material.
In one of the texts we read that in the past among the most expensive gifts that were brought from near and far were mastic, honey, tragaganth (Traganth, Tragant, Tragakant, Tragantgummi), pistachios and almonds, as well as ladanum (Ladanum). , rich in essential oils and resins.
In ancient Greece and Rome, mastic was a very popular chewing gum and was used as a disinfectant to strengthen teeth and gums.
In the harem of the sultan in Constantinople, the gum was also held in high esteem, as it helped the women to always have a pleasant aroma in their mouths and fresh breath. These properties still glorify it today.
How is mastic made?
The tree and branches of the mastic tree must not be simply cut, but this is done in a special way. And then, the resin, like tears, begins to flow.
The mastic slowly drips onto the floor where it is allowed to dry and within 2-3 weeks it hardens and is then collected. A very typical picture that can be seen in this period is how the area around the base of the trees is sprinkled with white powder so that the drops of resin can be collected from a clean surface during harvesting.
Its processing is also not easy, first of all is the purification of the resin.
Mastic can also be used as an adhesive, which is used by many make-up artists - e.g. as an adhesive for false beards, and also in oil painting, and as varnish for violin bows.
It is also used as a raw material in liqueurs.
Where to buy mastic?
You can buy original mastic from Chios Greece, as well as oil from the fruits of the mastic tree from "Zdravnitza".
You can place your order online. We deliver our products to Bulgaria, Europe, USA, Canada, Australia, Israel and Thailand.
Mastic products can buy on local stores of "Zdravnitza".
Health store "Zdravnitza"
1000 Sofia, Bulgaria
23 Neofit Rilski str.
Health store "Zdravnitza"
1303 Sofia, Bulgaria
74 Odrin str.
