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Mastic Products
The Mastic of Chios, a beneficial and natural greek product
Trees of this family are found in other Mediterranean countries, but it is only in the south of the island of Chios that these form mastic “tears”. They are cultivated in the villages of the mastic called Mastihohoria in Greek (Mesta, Armolia, Pyrgi among others), where the climate is particularly hot and dry.
tradition
Traditionally, mastic production has been a family job that lasts all year and has not changed over time.
production - part 1
Growers start by fertilizing trees and removing unnecessary branches for better air and light circulation so the resin can dry out. Before scratching the tree, they should remove all other plants around the trunk and clean it. They sweep and cover a ray around the trunk with white earth (thanks to CaCO3 – limestone – which does not react). They then scrape the ground to be smoothed out when they pick up the “tears.”
production - part 2 cutting the tree
Then it is the “kentros” stage, which is the scraping of the trunk with a tool called “kentitiri”, which begins in July and can last until the end of September. Growers begin to cut the bark superficially from the top of the trunk to the main branches. The resin falls to the ground in the form of a drop, hence the name “tears”. The resin appears in a liquid, viscous form that sticks. She’s transparent when she comes out of the tree.
production - part 3 the tear
After 15 to 20 days, the resin dries and becomes solid. The shape of each “tear” is obviously different. It crystallizes, which allows growers to harvest and clean it to produce the natural Chios mastiha. They collect the larger pieces and the remains are swept up and picked up by hand. The colour after solidification is yellowish, but it fades over time and due to oxidation. Normally this process is repeated a second time during the same season.
production - part 4 the final stages
Finally, the pieces of mastic are placed in wooden boxes and kept in a cool place where they will be carefully cleaned for delivery to the Cooperative of Producers of Mastiha. This association concentrates the total production of mastiha, ensuring the processing of the product, packaging and marketing
Mastic Health Benefits
There are many notd health benefits of using mastic gum
history
Dioscorides, the founder of pharmacology, was the first to understand its properties. He advised it for the stomach, cough and aromatization of the breath. Galen, the most famous doctor after Hippocrates, emphasized his qualities against inflammation of the stomach and intestines in general. But the benefits of mastic were also recognized by doctors of different eras and regions such as Aretaeus of Cappadocia, Rhazes, Avenzoar, Paracelsus or Antonio Menzani di Cuna among others.
Scientists have proven that mastiha has a beneficial effect against disorders of the digestive system. It is an effective way to relieve stomach pain, such as stomach upset and problems with dyspepsia.
Secondly, mastic has anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory action, it is an antioxidant and it contributes to oral hygiene. Other publications have highlighted its healing qualities without side effects for dermatitis and skin discoloration. It is also frequently used to treat post-operative wounds.
modern life
Mastic has multiple uses in industries such as food, beverages, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.
traditionally
research all the benefits
Take time to research this wonderful gum - you might find a use for it in your life.
Disclaimer: OPA! A Taste of Greece is not a healthcare provider, and this information is provided for general purposes only. Please do your own research and consult your doctor or other qualified healthcare provider when or where necessary, particularly if you have a medical condition, allergies or sensitivities, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have questions about whether eucalyptus is appropriate for you.