Mastic (Pistacia lentiscus): properties and medicinal uses

mastic characteristics

He mastic (Pistacia lentiscus) It is a very characteristic shrub of the dry Mediterranean landscape, Associated with holm oak and strawberry tree. It appears as a thick and low bush, very branched, although sometimes it can reach the size of a tree up to four meters high.

Its leaves are compoundwith hard, light green leaflets, reddish flowers grouped in panicles dense and spherical, bright red fruitshighly appreciated by forest birds. Blooms in late winter.

In addition to the leaves and fruits, mastic or mastic has medicinal interesta viscous, yellowish-green latex, highly aromatic, that the branches exude or that is obtained by making a shallow incision in the trunk. Contains a essential oilmasticic acids, masticin and tannins.

Medicinal properties of mastic

Mastic leaves are considered astringent, anti-hemorrhagic and anti-inflammatory. Prepared in decoction are applied in rinse or gargles to that same function: treat weak gums, stop bleeding, reduce inflammation and prevent them from losing consistencyJust one tablespoon of leaves per glass of water, boil for a minute, rest and strain. This same decoction is also used to facilitate the healing of wounds, cuts and soresDue to its high tannin content, mastic leaves are very effective to stop diarrhea.

mastic uses

The mastic has been a traditional remedywell known in rural environments, to strengthen the gums and to prevent them from bleeding. Formerly it was chewed for perfume the breath and even for whiten teeth. The mastic has been integrated into the formulation of numerous toothpastes and mouthwashes, as well as for the manufacture of dental fillings.

It had also been taken to combat lung congestion and coughing fits. In a very different order of things, he had been destined for the manufacture of varnishes

Nowadays, however, its use is being lost and in many herbalists it is much easier to find the mastic in dry leaf. It also contains a proportion of this repair latex and its application tends to be easier.

The mashing its twigs it was given to people inappetent. Finally, the mastic bushes are much appreciated in gardening.

to heal wounds

In such a case, experts recommend combine mastic with thyme, white horehound and a powerful astringent, holm oak barkin equal parts.

How to prepare it: Boil for 2 or 3 minutes, let it rest and strain. It is applied by soaking some compresses or by carefully moistening the damaged area of ​​the skin, two or three times a day.

Infusion for diarrhea

An excellent remedy is that associate the mastic with loosestrife, plantain and green anisethe latter to attenuate the bitter taste of the mastic

How to prepare it: Add a level tablespoon of the mixture in equal parts, boil for a couple of minutes and let it rest for another 10. It can be taken throughout the day, in small sips.

Advisor: J Mª Teixé, herbalist at “El Manantial de Salud”