Mastic is
a resin obtained
from the mastic tree (Pistacia
lentiscus).
In pharmacies and nature shops, it is called "arabic gum" (not to
be confused with gum arabic)
and "Yemen gum".
In Greece,
it is known as the "tears of Chios,"
being traditionally produced on that Greek island, and, like other
natural resins, is produced in "tears" or droplets. Originally
liquid, it is sun dried into drops of hard brittle translucent
resin. When chewed, the resin softens and becomes a bright white
and opaque gum. The flavor is bitter at first, but after chewing,
it releases a refreshing, slightly piney or cedar flavor.
