Does Mastic Gum Heal Stomach Lining

Slofoodgroup Team November 11, 2023

Mastiha, also known as mastic gum, mastika, tears of Chios, and other similar names, has gained recognition as a natural treatment for gastrointestinal issues, including Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Chrons Disease, Stomach Ulcers, and more. While the research on mastic gum as a natural medicine is minimal, studies have shown promising results. In this article, we will dig in a little deeper to help you decide whether or not mastiha might be worth adding to your dietary routine.

Is Mastiha Beneficial To Gut Health

Mastiha has been used in traditional medicine for centuries

Utilizing the resin of Pistacia lentiscu tree (mastic tree) is not a new trend. It has been employed medicinally for centuries, dating back at least to the beginning of pharmacology, when the man dubbed the “father of pharmacology”, Dioscorides, suggested mastic gum to be a suitable treatment for many stomach ailments. A long line of physicians, herbalists, and alchemists followed suit, touting a wide array of treatments mastic could be used for, with many mentions of its ability to aid in gut health. These included inflammation, intestinal fortification, nausea, upset stomach, and even ridding the body of intestinal worms.

Mastic gum has been proven to kill harmful intestinal bacteria

While physicians and alchemists of the past might have sworn by the utilization of mastiha for gut health, their recommendations were based on their own experiences and those of their patients rather than scientific trials made possible by technological advancements. In the more recent past, however, studies have been conducted to determine exactly why mastic is believed to be a suitable medicine for combatting gastrointestinal ailments.

In one such study, researchers wanted to uncover whether or not mastiha could be used to heal peptic ulcers. They already knew that stomach ulcers were often caused by a bacteria known as Helicobacter pylori (h. pylori), so they ran some clinical trials to find out if mastic could be a natural combatant of the bacteria. Six different trials concluded in results consistent with their hypothesis. Mastic not only treated the patience ulcers, it killed the h. pylori that was causing them.

Studies on Mastiha for gut health are limited.

The findings provide evidence that supports the theory that mastic gum can be used to heal the stomach lining, but it is important to note that the study was very small and further research needs to be conducted through rigorous clinical trials before the efficacy and safety of mastic in promoting the health and healing of stomach lining in humans can be confirmed. It is always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before using any natural remedies or supplements for specific health conditions.

Regardless of whether or not mastic is an effective natural treatment for stomach ailments, one thing is for sure, it is an unusual and delicious flavor addition to baked goods, beverages, and savory applications. You can find high-quality, ethically-sourced mastic gum here.

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