Evidence supporting the use of: Mastic gum
For the body system: Gums

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Mastic gum, a resin obtained from the Pistacia lentiscus tree, has a long history of use in Mediterranean traditional medicine, particularly for oral health. Recent scientific studies have investigated its potential benefits for the gums and oral cavity. Research indicates that mastic gum exhibits antimicrobial properties, especially against oral pathogens like Streptococcus mutans and Porphyromonas gingivalis, which are implicated in the development of dental plaque and periodontal diseases. Some in vitro and small-scale clinical studies have shown that chewing mastic gum can reduce the bacterial load in the mouth, leading to a decrease in plaque formation and gingival inflammation. However, large, high-quality randomized controlled trials specifically evaluating mastic gum’s effect on gum health are limited. While the evidence supports some benefit, particularly in reducing oral bacteria and plaque, it is not as robust as that for established oral care interventions. Overall, mastic gum’s use for supporting gum health has both traditional roots and a moderate level of scientific validation, primarily due to its antimicrobial activity and observed effects on oral health indicators in preliminary studies.

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