Ancient Greeks used mastic resin as a natural chewing gum to clean their teeth and freshen their breath.

Mastic resin is harvested from the Pistacia lentiscus tree, which grows almost exclusively on the Greek island of Chios. Historical records from the 1st century AD, including works by the Greek physician Dioscorides, document the use of 'mastiche' for its medicinal and dental benefits. The resin is collected by making small cuts in the bark, allowing the sap to weep out and harden into translucent droplets known as 'tears.'Modern scientific studies have validated these ancient practices. Research published in the 'Journal of Periodontology' indicates that chewing mastic resin significantly reduces the levels of Streptococcus mutans, a primary bacterium responsible for dental cavities and plaque formation. The resin contains high concentrations of antioxidants and antimicrobial compounds like terpenes, which inhibit the growth of oral pathogens.Beyond oral health, mastic was a highly prized commodity in the Mediterranean trade for centuries. During the Ottoman rule of Chios, mastic was worth its weight in gold, and stealing it was punishable by death. Today, Chios Mastic is protected by the European Union as a Product of Designated Origin (PDO), ensuring that this ancient dental hygiene tradition remains tied to its specific geographic and historical roots.