What is mastic gum and how does it work?
Mastic gum is a resin that comes from the mastic tree, which is an evergreen shrub that grows on the Greek island of Chios. Mastic gum may have health benefits, but research into its safety is limited.
People have used mastic gum for medicinal reasons for over 2,500 years.
Some evidence suggests it is an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial qualities. However, no scientific studies have proven that this resin can cure medical conditions.
In this article, learn more about the uses and benefits of mastic gum and some potential risks.
Uses and benefits of mastic gum
Historically, people used mastic gum to treat dental problems and digestive conditions. According to a 2020 review, scientific studies have isolated 120 different compounds in mastic gum, some of which are:
- anti-inflammatory
- antibacterial
- antioxidant
- anti-ulcer
- antidiabetic
Here are some of the potential medicinal uses of mastic gum.
Protecting dental health
A 2023 review of 14 studies on mastic gum for dental health found evidence that chewing the resin can inhibit the accumulation of plaque. When plaque accumulates on teeth, it can ultimately result in cavities.
The studies in the review did not report any side effects or toxicity from mastic gum, but the authors say more research is necessary to confirm the results.
Reducing heartburn
Mastic gum may help reduce heartburn, also known as indigestion or dyspepsia.
A 2022 review mentions an older randomized controlled trial in which 148 participants took 350 milligrams (mg) of mastic gum three times daily for 3 weeks for their dyspepsia.
At the end of the trial, the dyspepsia symptoms had significantly reduced.
Reducing Helicobacter pylori bacteria
According to a 2020 review of past studies, mastic gum has antibacterial activity against several types of bacteria, including Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori).
The presence of H. pylori bacteria in the stomach is a major risk factorTrusted Source for stomach ulcers. The bacteria may also be a risk factor for stomach cancer.
In some studies, researchers have found mastic gum may be potent enough to greatly reduce or even eradicate H. pylori.
However, the research on whether mastic gum can work as a stand-alone treatment or in combination with other drugs has been mixed.
Some studies have found that mastic gum and proton pump inhibitors do not seem to work as effectively together. Another small study in the review found no effect at all from mastic gum.
The authors highlight a need for more high quality clinical trials.
Managing inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
Some evidence suggests that mastic gum could help with IBDs, such as Crohn’s disease. However, a 2023 review of past research notes that most of the evidence to support this so far has come from animal studies. Therefore, data in humans is limited.
That said, a few small clinical trials show some promise. The review notes that several found that taking oral mastic gum (via mouth) helped reduce symptoms and inflammatory substances known as cytokines in the body.
More research with larger groups of participants is necessary to confirm that mastic gum is a safe way to treat IBD.
Controlling cholesterol levels
Some studies suggest that mastic gum may help people improve their cholesterol levels.
A 2022 review mentions a study in which 156 people with cholesterol over 200 milligrams per deciliter took either 1 gram (g) of crude mastic per day or 2 g of powdered mastic.
After 8 weeks, only the group that took crude mastic gum showed improvements in their cholesterol levels in comparison to when they started.
However, there was no difference in specific types of cholesterol, such as low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol or triglycerides. As a result, it is unclear if these results are accurate.
Risks and side effects of mastic gum
Studies on mastic gum have not noted any significant or dangerous side effects. However, there is a lack of research on its long-term use, so scientists do not know if it is safe to use for long periods.
No studies prove mastic gum is safe for children, pregnant people, or those who are breastfeeding. It is also unclear if it interacts with other medical conditions or drugs.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not test mastic gum supplements for safety or effectiveness. Therefore, people need to exercise caution when purchasing mastic supplements and should only use those from a reputable source.
Summary
Mastic gum is a traditional remedy that may benefit oral health, reduce heartburn, and potentially aid in reducing the symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
However, studies have not proven mastic gum can cure any health conditions, and the research on its ability to treat some conditions and infections, such as Helicobacter pylori, has had mixed results on how effective it is.
Mastic gum appears to have a low risk of toxicity and side effects, but scientists do not know if it is safe to use long-term.
A person needs to consult a doctor before using mastic gum to check whether it is suitable for them.
Source: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/mastic-gum#risks-and-side-effects