FAQ about Mastic | Chios Mastic Gum

In this article

1. About mastic
2. Taking mastic
3. Choosing & buying
4. Crystals, ELMA & jaw
5. Safety
   

What is mastic, and why take it?

Mastic is a purely natural product: the resin of the mastic tree. As a food supplement it contributes to the normal function of the digestive system, and it’s also used in cosmetics and cooking. Learn more in What is mastic gum?

What is mastic gum supplement used for?

As a food supplement, mastic contributes to the normal function of the digestive system, and it is also valued for oral hygiene.

Is mastic gum the same as Chios mastic?

Chios mastic is mastic from the Greek island of Chios: the authentic, PDO-protected origin and the best-quality mastic available.

Does mastic gum taste good?

Yes, it has a distinctive woody-sweet “taste of nature”.

Is mastic gluten-free?

Yes, mastic is gluten-free. See our gluten-free statement.

Is mastic suitable for vegetarians?

Yes. Raw mastic and most Masticlife supplements are also vegan; the one exception is Mastic+ Vitamin D3, which is vegetarian (its D3 comes from lanolin).

Is mastic a probiotic or prebiotic?

No. If you want mastic with a prebiotic, choose Mastic Comfort or Mastic+ Prebiotic (both contain inulin). For mastic with probiotics, choose Mastic Vital Double Action.

Does mastic gum contain plastic?

No, it does not. It is a natural resin.

Should mastic gum be taken on an empty stomach?

Yes, we recommend taking mastic capsules on an empty stomach (at least 30 minutes before food).

When should I take mastic gum capsules?

Take a mastic capsule at least twice a day. See our guide to the correct dosage of mastic gum.

Can I take mastic gum long-term?

Mastic is a food supplement that can be taken as part of a daily routine. Follow the recommended daily dose and, if in doubt, ask your doctor.

Can children, pregnant and breastfeeding women use mastic?

Studies have not focused on the use of mastic by children under 3, or by pregnant and breastfeeding women, so we cannot recommend it for these groups.

Which mastic gum is best?

The best mastic is the mastic gum from the island of Chios.

Which are the best mastic gum capsules?

The best mastic gum capsules are pure mastic capsules without added ingredients.

Where does Masticlife mastic come from?

From Chios, through the Chios Gum Mastic Growers Association. Masticlife is an authorised mastic partner.

How can I crush mastic crystals?

Crush them in a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder, adding a little salt (for savoury recipes) or sugar (for sweet ones) to stop the mastic sticking together. Freeze the crystals first. See mastic gum powder.

What can I do to avoid sticking mastic powder?

Keep mastic in a cool place, preferably the refrigerator. Shaking the container occasionally also helps.

What is the difference between ELMA chewing gum and chewing raw mastic?

ELMA chewing gum contains mastic and mastic oil, but in smaller amounts than you would take as a food supplement. There is also a difference in taste and aroma: raw mastic has a consistent, unmistakable flavour, while gum is shaped by its added flavour. ELMA Classic and ELMA Sugarfree are closest to pure mastic.

Is mastic gum good for the jaw?

Mastic resin is firmer than ordinary chewing gum, so chewing it gives the jaw and chewing muscles a workout, and some people use it as part of a jawline routine.

How much mastic gum for the jawline?

It depends on the size of the crystals; medium and large ones are best for chewing. Around 2–3 pieces is a good amount.

Does mastic gum have side effects?

Mastic gum is generally well tolerated. Read more in our side effects & safety information.

Can excessive consumption of mastic or ELMA gum cause side effects?

Natural mastic is generally well tolerated and significant side effects are not commonly reported. ELMA chewing gum contains natural sweeteners, which in excess may have a laxative effect in sensitive individuals.

Is it OK to eat mastic gum?

Yes, eating mastic gum is generally considered safe.

Is mastic gum suitable for people with histamine intolerance?

No scientific study has yet looked at how mastic affects histamine levels or histamine intolerance, and its histamine content has not been measured. Mastic is a dried resin. It is not fermented or aged, which are the processes that usually raise histamine levels in food. Tolerance varies from person to person, so if you have histamine intolerance, start with a small amount and see how your body responds. The mastic tree belongs to the same plant family as pistachios and cashews, so take extra care if you are allergic to these nuts. If you have any health concerns, please talk to your doctor.