Evidence supporting the use of: Mastic gum
For the health condition: Belching

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Synopsis

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

Mastic gum has a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly in the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern regions, for digestive complaints including belching (excessive burping), indigestion, and gastritis. Historical records and folk medicine suggest that mastic gum was chewed or ingested to soothe the stomach, reduce bloating, and ease discomfort after meals. The resin is believed to have carminative properties—meaning it helps expel gas from the stomach or intestines—which could plausibly contribute to a reduction in belching. However, scientific validation specifically for belching is limited. While some small studies and preliminary research have shown that mastic gum may help with general gastrointestinal symptoms, such as dyspepsia (indigestion) and Helicobacter pylori infection, there is little direct evidence from randomized controlled trials to support its use specifically for belching. Most available clinical studies focus on broader digestive health outcomes rather than belching alone. Therefore, while mastic gum's use for belching is primarily justified by tradition and anecdotal reports, scientific evidence is not robust or specific enough to strongly endorse its use for this particular symptom. Nevertheless, its long-standing use in traditional systems supports a moderate rating for traditional evidence.

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