Mastic of Chios is a natural resin harvested exclusively on the Greek island of Chios. It has been renowned for its unique aroma and medicinal properties for thousands of years, and is used in various products ranging from food to cosmetics.
Mastic has been harvested on the island of Chios for over 2,500 years.
The ancient Greeks believed that mastic had healing properties and used it for medicinal purposes.
During the Ottoman rule, mastic production was controlled and monopolized, causing resentment among the locals.
Today, the production of mastic is controlled by a cooperative of Chios residents to ensure fair trade and preservation of the tradition.
Frankincense is another type of resin with similar medicinal properties.
Myrrh is a resin that has been used for its fragrance and healing properties for centuries.
Chewing gum made from mastic resin with a unique flavor and texture.
Essential oil extracted from mastic resin, used in cosmetics and aromatherapy.
A sweet liqueur made by adding mastic resin to alcohol and sugar.
Mastic gum is a type of chewing gum made from mastic resin. It has a unique flavor and texture and has been enjoyed for its medicinal properties for thousands of years.
Mastic has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties. It has been used to treat stomach ulcers, dental plaque, and gum disease, among other conditions.
Mastic is harvested by making small incisions in the bark of the mastic tree. The resin is then left to dry and harden before being collected.
Mastic can be used in various products, including cosmetics, soaps, perfumes, and liqueurs.
The production of mastic is controlled by a cooperative of Chios residents to ensure fair trade and preservation of the tradition. The trees are not harmed during the harvesting process, and the resin is collected in an environmentally-friendly manner.