Mastic (plant resin)

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Mastic (Greek: Μαστίχα) is a resin obtained from the mastic tree (Pistacia lentiscus).^[1] It is also known as tears of Chios,^[2] being traditionally produced on the island Chios, and, like other natural resins, is produced in "tears" or droplets.

Mastic is excreted by the resin glands of certain trees^[3] and dries into pieces of brittle, translucent resin. When chewed, the resin softens and becomes a bright white and opaque gum. The flavor is bitter at first, but after some chewing, it releases a refreshing flavor similar to pine and cedar.