Job:07-61264 Title:RacePoint - Herb and Spice Companion
Dtp:VIVIAN Page:23261264 - Herb and Spice Companion_146-256.indd 232 3/7/15 5:31 pm
(Text)HERB & SPICE COMPANION- 232 –
MASTIC
Pistacia lentiscus
Flavors: somewhat piney, anise-
like, slightly bitter, and fresheningMastic was history’s first chewing gum, used in ancient times to aid in digestion
and freshen breath. In fact, the word “mastic” is derived from the Greek mastichon,
meaning “to chew.”
True mastic is culled from trees
grown on the Greek Island of Chios.
When the trunk is sliced open, the sap
seeps out and gradually hardens with
exposure to air. This hardened resin
forms into small transparent chunks or
“tears,” ranging from^1 ⁄ 8 inch to 3 inches
in size.
Mastic tears are quite costly and
should only be purchased and used in
small quantities. They offer freshening
flavor and chewy texture to many Greek,
Turkish, and Middle Eastern sweets,
from pastries to creamy puddings to
gummy candies like Turkish delight.In the Garden
The mastic tree thrives in warm, dry locations similar to its native Mediterranean cli-
mate. It grows slowly and compactly (wide, like a shrub), and will be healthy in a
container outdoors or indoors if provided with plenty of sunlight. The tree only begins
producing mastic after 5 or 6 years. It won’t reach peak production until it’s 15 years
old, but will continue for another 60 years more.
Size: 6 to 25 feet tall, proportionate widthHEALTH BENEFITS
Mastic has long been prized as a
stimulant for the digestive system and
a breath freshener. Chewing mastic
triggers the production of saliva,
which, in turn, jumpstarts healthy
digestion. It’s also been shown to
possess antibacterial powers that can
help prevent cavities and tooth decay,
as well as ulcers in the stomach and
intestines—which explains its use in
many toothpastes and mouthwashes.Job:07-61264 Title:RacePoint - Herb and Spice Companion
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