“A tear that pleases, perfumes, relieves and heals.”
Chios Mastic is a natural, aromatic resin in teardrop shape produced from the mastic tree (pistacia lentiscus var. chia)
only growing in the southern part of Chios Island. The
uniqueness
of the product is attributed not only to a deep-rooted tradition in
cultivation, but also to certain soil and weather conditions that favour
mastic tree’s flourishing.
Mastic in fact is first mentioned by Herodotus, who refers to its
usage in embalming. In Roman times, women used it as a breath freshener
and a teeth whitener. Christopher Columbus himself was astonished by the
properties of mastic when he visited the island. He actually believed
that mastic could provide the cure against cholera! Nowadays, mastic has
been recognised internationally as a Product of Protected Designation
of Origin.
Mastic appears to
have myriad applications ranging from the
medicinal to the functional ones, including use as a stabilizer in
paints and making varnishes, especially for musical instruments. Besides
being used in toothpaste, chewing gum and confectionery, mastic is an
ingredient in the making of liqueurs. A Greek grape spirit, masticha, is
flavoured with the resin. Mastic is also found in
recipes for
breads and pastries, ice creams, sweet puddings, almond cakes and the
traditional Greek spoon sweets (glyká tou koutalioú). Stimulant and
diuretic, mastic was widely used medicinally in the past and chewed to
neutralise foul breath. It is thought to have anti-microbial properties.
The Gum Mastic Grower's Association lists over 60 uses for mastic
including its use in the treatment of duodenal ulcers, heartburn, as
well as its anti-cancer properties and aphrodisiac effects. Finally,
cosmetic skin care methods comprise applying to the skin ointments
containing gum mastic, which are believed to provide anti-aging benefits
and an overall healthy and youthful appearance of the skin.