Derived from the resin of the mastic tree, indigenous to the Greek island of Chios, mastic gum has intrigued health enthusiasts for centuries. Though mastic gum benefits are prevalent anecdotally, scientific research into its safety and effects remains limited.
Discover the mastic gum uses, potential benefits and precautions surrounding this amazing natural remedy. Continue reading to know what is mastic gum called in India, its uses, and potential risks.
Mastic Gum Benefits and Uses
In India, mastic gum is commonly referred to as ‘Mastagi’, reflecting its cultural significance and widespread recognition across diverse regions. It is used by people for a number of medical purposes. Despite the small amount of research on mastic gum, it shows promising results when used as a treatment for problems related to the digestive system and dental health. Conditions including cancer and heart disease may also benefit from its antioxidant properties. However, before approving mastic gum as a remedy for severe medical conditions, professionals must conduct more extensive human research.
Some possible mastic gum uses and health advantages include the following:
- Protecting Dental Health
According to research, chewing mastic gum may help prevent cavities. It also reduces the amount of specific bacteria in the mouths of those who did so after 15 minutes. The study reported that after 135 minutes, bacteria levels were still significantly low. These microorganisms, otherwise, can cause gum and plaque buildup and the outcomes were not observed with a placebo.
- Reducing Stomach Pain and Heartburn
Mastic gum may be beneficial for some digestive issues. Chewing it may be helpful for an upset stomach. Some people claimed that chewing mastic gum helps with specific kinds of indigestion and abdominal discomfort. They also felt less stomach pain from anxiety. Additionally, they noticed less heartburn.
- Soothing Stomach Ulcers
In a study, mastic gum has been shown to alleviate the symptoms of peptic or stomach ulcers. After two weeks, those who took 1 gram (g) of mastic gum daily, reported fewer symptoms related to ulcers.
- Reducing Helicobacter Pylori Bacteria in the Stomach
An infection with H. pylori bacteria is a major risk factor for stomach ulcers. Stomach cancer risk may also be associated with certain bacteria. Mastic gum was shown to have antibacterial properties against H. pylori, and after 14 days of consumption, it was more effective than a placebo at curing H. pylori infections.
Although research hasn’t demonstrated that mastic gum may totally eradicate an H. pylori infection, certain studies have indicated that it can kill the bacteria.
In a different study, scientists examined the effectiveness of mastic gum as an essential oil against H. pylori. Certain antibiotic-resistant H. pylori strains were responsive to the oil’s antibacterial properties. Researchers found these effects in a laboratory but not in humans.
- Soothing Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Mastic gum has been suggested by some as a potential treatment for inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), including Crohn’s disease. According to research, individuals who consumed it showed considerable improvement after three months for IBD indicators.
- Controlling Cholesterol and Blood Sugar Levels
High blood sugar and cholesterol can raise the risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease. According to certain research, chewing mastic gum may help people improve the levels of both. After 8 weeks, users showed reduced blood sugar and total cholesterol, as per research. According to a different study, after six months, those who took mastic powder had reduced triglyceride levels and increased insulin sensitivity.
Consult a doctor to maintain the right level of blood sugar and cholesterol.
- Potentially Fighting Cancer
Mastic oil can aid in the treatment of some cancers, according to preliminary research. It is shown to have an anticancer impact on colon cancer in research on mice. This oil may be beneficial for a particular kind of lung cancer, according to a different study on mice. Additionally, some leukaemia cell types may be killed by mastic oil.
Although mastic gum is not a recognised cancer treatment option, research indicates that it might be useful as a supplement to combat the disease. Prescription cancer therapies should never be substituted with mastic gum. If a person wants to try mastic gum in addition to their other treatments, they should consult a doctor.
Mastic Gum Side Effects and Risks
There have not been any notable mastic gum side effects as per studies. However, kids, pregnant women and nursing mothers should stay away from it because there isn’t much research on this topic.
Furthermore, mastic gum supplements may not be subject to FDA regulation on efficacy or safety. As a result, people must be cautious while buying these supplements and only use products from reliable sources.
Conclusion
Mastic gum benefits in traditional treatment show therapeutic improvements. It appears to have a low risk of toxicity and adverse effects, even though studies have not demonstrated that it can treat or cure any medical diseases. Therefore, mastic gum may be an option for those seeking natural remedies for dental or digestive health issues.
Certain natural supplements of this gum may be harmful to individuals with specific medical conditions or might interact with some medications. Therefore, it is advisable to consult a doctor before using any essential oil or mastic gum.
