Optimal Storage Conditions for Mastic
To ensure your mastic resin retains its unique properties, understanding the ideal storage environment is crucial. Both mastic tears (crystals) and powdered mastic have specific needs to prevent spoilage and maintain their texture and efficacy.
Storing Mastic Tears (Crystals)
Mastic tears, the natural form of the resin, are sensitive to temperature and humidity. Their ideal storage temperature range is typically between 5°C and 25°C (41°F to 77°F), away from excessive heat or direct sunlight.
- Keep it Cool and Dry: Store mastic tears in a cool, dark, and dry place, such as a pantry or cupboard. Excessive heat can cause the tears to soften and clump together, while high humidity can prematurely cure them.
- Use an Airtight Container: To protect the resin from moisture and contaminants, transfer the tears from their original packaging into a small, airtight glass jar. This keeps the resin fresh and prevents it from absorbing external odors.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: UV rays can degrade the chemical compounds in mastic over time, reducing its potency. Keep your container away from windows and other light sources.
Storing Mastic Powder and Capsules
Powdered mastic and capsules present different challenges. The fine powder, being more vulnerable to clumping, requires careful temperature control.
- Refrigerate or Keep Very Cool: Mastic gum powder and capsules should be stored in a refrigerator or a very cool place, ideally below 18°C (64°F).
- Combat Clumping: Because the powder is a 100% natural resin without anti-caking agents, it will clump when exposed to heat. If this happens, it is still perfectly usable; simply tap the container to break it up. For more stubborn clumps, place the container in the freezer for a short time to re-harden the powder before breaking it apart again.
When is Chilling or Freezing Necessary?
For general storage, chilling is not required. However, there are two specific scenarios where colder temperatures are beneficial.
- Grinding into Powder: If you are grinding your own mastic tears into a powder, it is essential to freeze them for a few hours first. While frozen, the resin is hard and brittle, making it easy to blend into a fine powder without it melting and sticking to your blender blades.
- Restoring Consistency for Chewing: If your mastic tears have become too soft and sticky from warm temperatures, briefly refrigerating them can help restore a better consistency for chewing.
Mastic Gum vs. Regular Chewing Gum
Understanding the fundamental differences between natural mastic gum and commercial chewing gum can clarify why storage and usage differ.
| Feature | Mastic Gum | Regular Chewing Gum |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Natural resin from the Pistacia lentiscus tree | Synthetic rubber base (plastics), sweeteners, flavorings |
| Flavor | Unique, pine-like, slightly bitter, and woody | Often sweet, minty, or fruity flavors |
| Texture | Hard at first, softens with chewing; can vary in hardness between pieces | Starts soft and maintains a consistent, stretchy texture |
| Storage | Cool, dry place; requires chilling for grinding | Room temperature; not sensitive to minor temperature changes |
| Primary Purpose | Historically medicinal, for oral and digestive health | Entertainment, breath freshening, and flavor |
The Health Benefits of Mastic
Beyond proper storage, mastic is valued for its potential health benefits, which have been studied for centuries. These are attributed to its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties.
Digestive Health
- H. pylori Reduction: Mastic gum has been shown to have antibacterial effects against Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium linked to stomach ulcers and gastritis.
- Indigestion Relief: Studies suggest that mastic may help reduce symptoms of dyspepsia, such as stomach pain and heartburn.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Early research indicates that mastic might offer therapeutic benefits for IBD conditions like Crohn's disease, although more studies are needed.
Oral Health
- Fights Plaque and Bacteria: Chewing mastic can inhibit plaque accumulation and reduce the levels of harmful oral bacteria, like Streptococcus mutans, that cause cavities.
- Freshens Breath: The fragrant, antiseptic properties of the resin provide a natural breath freshener.
How to Use Mastic Gum Properly
Using mastic correctly ensures you get the most from this natural product. The process differs based on whether you are chewing the tears or taking it as a supplement.
- Chewing Mastic Tears: Start with a small, hard piece. Begin chewing it slowly with your front teeth until it becomes a cohesive mass. If it's too soft, add a harder piece to achieve the desired consistency. Chew for at least 15-20 minutes to release the beneficial compounds.
- Taking Mastic Powder/Capsules: Mastic powder or capsules are typically taken on an empty stomach, about 30 minutes before a meal, to maximize absorption. Always follow the manufacturer's dosage instructions.
For more detailed information on mastic's medicinal uses, you can consult reputable sources like RxList.
Conclusion: Proper Handling is Key
So, should mastic be chilled? The key takeaway is to distinguish between general storage and special preparation. For long-term storage, a cool, dry, and dark environment is best for both tears and powder. For chewing gum, chilling can adjust the texture, while for grinding powder, freezing is a necessary step. By following these guidelines, you can preserve the unique properties and maximize the benefits of this remarkable natural resin.
