Mastic Gum
Pistacia lentiscus
T Traditional useMastic gum is a natural resin traditionally taken by mouth for mild indigestion and used on the skin for minor inflammation and small wounds.
Image: Herbadex Botanik Stüdyosu · Özel Üretim
On this page
At a glance
The EMA classes the resin of the Pistacia lentiscus tree grown on Chios (mastic) as a traditional herbal medicine taken by mouth for mild indigestion, and used on the skin for minor inflammation and to help heal small wounds. The monograph lists no known adverse effects.
Updated: October 15, 2026
✓ This herb record is backed by official European Medicines Agency (EMA HMPC) herbal monographs.
What is it used for?
T Traditional use
Traditional use: Based on at least 30 years of documented traditional use rather than clinical trials.
How do we rate evidence levels? →Traditionally used for mild indigestion. [1]
T Traditional use
Traditional use: Based on at least 30 years of documented traditional use rather than clinical trials.
How do we rate evidence levels? →Traditionally used on the skin for minor inflammation and as an aid in healing minor wounds. [1]
How is it used?
Safety & interactions
Minimum age: 18 years
- Oral use not recommended under 18; skin use not recommended under 12.
- See a doctor if the skin shows signs of infection.
- Not recommended in pregnancy or breastfeeding because safety has not been shown.
Drug interactions
No recorded interactions
Side effects
- None known according to the monograph; report any unexpected effect to a doctor
⚕ When to see a doctor
- If high fever, shortness of breath or purulent/bloody phlegm develops
- If symptoms do not improve within 1–2 weeks or worsen
- If severe abdominal pain, jaundice, rash or allergic reaction occurs
Did you know?
Mastic is a resin the EMA assesses both by mouth for indigestion and as a skin ointment. [1]
Frequently asked questions
Is mastic gum good for the stomach?
The EMA accepts mastic as a traditional remedy for mild indigestion.
How is mastic gum taken?
For indigestion, adults take 0.5–1 g by mouth twice a day.
Is mastic used for H. pylori?
The EMA monograph has no indication for H. pylori. See a doctor about the cause of stomach complaints.
Can children take mastic gum?
Oral use is not recommended under 18.
Sources
Cite This Page
Mastic Gum (Pistacia lentiscus). Herbadex — Doğal Şifa Rehberi (2026). https://herbadex.com/en/herb/mastic-gum/
Related guides and comparisons
Related herbs
Castor Oil
A Strong clinical evidenceRicinus communis
A strong, fast-acting laxative with well-known efficacy for short-term constipation. Do not use it on your own to start labour.
Chamomile
T Traditional useMatricaria recutita
A gentle herbal tea traditionally used for bloating and mild stomach cramps, common cold symptoms and mouth or throat irritation.
Fenugreek
T Traditional useTrigonella foenum-graecum
Fenugreek seed is traditionally used before meals for temporary loss of appetite and as a poultice for minor skin inflammation.
Sage
T Traditional useSalvia officinalis
Sage leaf is traditionally used as a gargle for mouth and throat inflammation, for mild indigestion and for excessive sweating.
Yarrow
T Traditional useAchillea millefolium
Yarrow tea is traditionally used for loss of appetite, bloating and wind, mild period cramps and, on the skin, small superficial wounds.
Witch Hazel
T Traditional useHamamelis virginiana
Witch hazel leaf is used on the skin for minor inflammation and dryness, for haemorrhoid itching and burning, and as a mouth gargle.
Other herbs in the same preparation form (Resin & Gum)
Resin & Gum →
Frankincense (Olibanum)
B Limited clinical evidenceBoswellia sacra / Boswellia serrata
The resin of the Boswellia tree. Standardised extracts are backed by limited clinical studies for pain and mobility in knee osteoarthritis.
