What is Chios mastic?
Chios mastic (Greek: Μαστίχα Χίου ) is a natural aromatic resin secreted exclusively by the Pistacia lentiscus var. Chia tree, which grows only in the southern part of the island of Chios in the Aegean Sea, Greece.
Mastic appears as pale yellow droplets, commonly referred to as “mastic tears” when hardened. It offers a mildly spicy, resinous, and slightly aromatic flavor.
Chemically, mastic is incredibly rich:
- It contains more than 80 bioactive compounds.
- Key components include monoterpenes (α-pinene, β-myrcene, limonene), sesquiterpenes, polyphenols and phytosterols.
- It has strong antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and healing properties.
There are many research and clinical studies that confirm the health benefits of mastic. Among the most well-known and recognized among experts are the studies dealing with the anti-inflammatory activity of mastic and its relationship to antioxidant effects, Triantafyllou et al., Nutrition Journal, 2011, “Mastic Gum Kills Helicobacter pylori”, the early work showing that mastic has activity against H. pylori in vitro/in vivo; often cited as groundbreaking, Huwez et al., NEJM, 1998 or the comprehensive in vitro and in vivo work mapping the antimicrobial and gastroprotective effects of mastic extracts, Paraschos et al., 2006 (Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy / PMC) .
Origin and history
Antiquity
- The first mentions of mastic date back to the 5th century BC – Hippocrates recommended it for the treatment of digestive and inflammatory disorders.
- Mastic was valued in ancient Greece and Rome for medicinal purposes, the production of perfumery, and exclusive chewing gums.
Middle Ages
- During the Byzantine Empire, mastic became a luxury medicinal and cosmetic product.
- During Ottoman rule, mastic was so valuable that theft was punishable by death.
- The "Mastichochoria" villages of southern Chios received special privileges in exchange for the production of mastic.
Modern times
In 1997, Chios mastic was granted PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) status by the European Union.
Modern scientific research has confirmed many of the traditional health benefits of mastic, especially for the gastrointestinal system, immune system, and oral health.
Effects and benefits of Chian mastic for animals
Chios mastic is a natural and safe dietary supplement designed to support digestive health, strengthen the immune system, contribute to the psychological well-being of animals, eliminate stressful behavior in them, and generally affect the vitality and condition of all animals.
Thanks to its unique properties, it is suitable for all animals, from horses to pets (dogs, cats) or livestock.
Digestive system support
- Protection of the gastric mucosa: mastic creates a protective film on the walls of the stomach and intestines, preventing irritation and promoting the healing of minor erosions and inflammations.
- Reduction of stomach ulcers: particularly important for horses under stress, high workload or poor diet (e.g. EGUS – equine gastric ulcer syndrome).
- Balancing the gut microbiota: promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria while reducing harmful pathogens.
Anti-inflammatory effects
- Reducing gastrointestinal inflammation: helps with chronic inflammatory conditions such as colitis or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in animals.
- Prevention of secondary infections: mastic eliminates excessive immune reactions.
Antimicrobial and antifungal properties
- Inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria: effective against pathogens such as Salmonella spp., E. coli, Clostridium spp., which cause diarrhea and intestinal infections.
- Natural control of mold and yeast: mastic fights candidiasis and other fungal diseases in the intestines.
Strengthening the immune system
- Strengthens natural immunity: stimulates immune cells, thereby improving resistance to infections and inflammatory diseases.
- Supports recovery after illness or stress: useful during convalescence, competitions, exhibitions or during transportation.
Antioxidant cellular protection
- Neutralizes free radicals: protects cells and DNA from oxidative stress, slows down aging and tissue degeneration.
- Increases vitality and overall condition: animals remain more energetic, more resilient and recover faster.
Improving quality of life
- Relieves digestive problems: reduces bloating, diarrhea and stomach upset in horses, dogs, cats, livestock and many others.
- Supports a healthy appetite: promotes food intake, which is essential for regeneration and growth.
