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mastic tree

plant
Also known as: Pistacia lentiscus, lentisc tree

Quick Summary

The mastic tree, Pistacia lentiscus, is an evergreen shrub or tree native to the Mediterranean region. It yields a valuable aromatic resin, also called mastic, which is collected from incisions made in the bark. This resin is primarily used to create pale varnishes for protecting metals and paintings, and it can also be used as a dental adhesive.12

The resin is typically marketed as small, transparent, yellowish-green tears. While the Greek island of Chios is the main production site, similar resins can be obtained from related species. It's important to note that other plants are sometimes referred to as yielding mastic, such as Cape mastic or West Indian mastic, but these are distinct species.1

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