Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Mastic (Pistacia lentiscus resin) has a longstanding history of use in Mediterranean traditional medicine for gastrointestinal ailments, but there is also a modest body of scientific evidence investigating its antimicrobial properties. In vitro studies have demonstrated that mastic gum exhibits antibacterial activity against Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium implicated in peptic ulcer disease and gastritis. Several small clinical trials have reported that mastic gum can reduce or eradicate H. pylori in some patients, though the eradication rates are generally lower than standard antibiotic regimens. The proposed mechanisms involve direct antibacterial effects and possible inhibition of bacterial adhesion to the gastric mucosa. However, evidence for mastic as a broad-spectrum alternative or adjunct to conventional antibiotics is limited; most studies focus on H. pylori, with little to no robust clinical data for other bacterial infections. While promising in vitro data exist for activity against some oral pathogens and Staphylococcus aureus, these findings have not yet translated into strong clinical evidence. In summary, while mastic is traditionally used for digestive health and has demonstrated some antimicrobial effects—particularly against H. pylori—the current scientific evidence is limited in scope and quality. More rigorous, larger-scale clinical trials are needed to establish its efficacy as a reliable alternative or adjunct to antibiotics.

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