What is Mastiha?
Mastiha (also called Mastic, mastihi, mastic tears) is a sap from Mastic trees (Evergreen shrubs or small trees of the Pistacio family which grow up to 13 ft tall). These trees are found only in certain areas of the Greek island of Chios. The mastic trees of southern Chios "weep" the masticha resin when their bark is scored. Mastic production is controlled by a co-operative of medieval villages, collectively known as the ‘Mastichochoria’which are also located in the southern part of Chios. The exclusivity of the mastic gum source has led to the European Union granting the production of the spice in Chios a protected designation of origin.
Mastiha is used as a flavoring for liquor (it is used in Skinos Mastiha Spirit), and in soap-making, cosmetics, toothpaste, and as a spice in cooking. There is some new evidence that it has a positive effect on ulcers.
Mastiha is the natural and rare tree resin of the pistacia lentiscus var Chia tree. Scientific research has shown that this resin has anti-oxidant, anti-bacterial, and anti-inflammatory qualities. It has been documented from antiquity for its health benefits, its use as the first natural chewing gum and as a cooking spice. Today, it is still chewed as well as used in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and in the culinary world. Chios mastiha contributes to a healthy gastrointestinal system and has beneficial effects for both oral hygiene and skin care. Chios Mastiha is protected by the European Union as a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) product. This distincion recognizes the name of a specific region or country where a specific agricultural product originates exclusively due to the geographical environment. This includes the natural and human factors and production, alteration and processes which take place in the delineated geographical area. All PDO products bear the EU symbol design
According to the shop…Mastiha is the natural and rare tree resin of the pistacia lentiscus var Chia tree. This anti-oxidant, anti-bacterial, and anti-inflammatory resin has been documented from antiquity for its health benefits, its use as the first natural chewing gum and as a cooking spice. Today it is still chewed as well as used in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and in the culinary world. You can read the interesting story behind the Mastiha Shop on their site: http://mastihashopny.c…. I ended up buying a bag of their soft taffy-like candy (a special request from a friend who lives on the west coast and loves the stuff). It’s an acquired taste–imagine eating a piece of candy that has a pine-tree taste to it. Sounds odd but it grows on you and is apparently good for you too. It’s an interesting shop filled with a lot of different products–from candy to soaps and toothpaste, pasta and even beverages. Check out if you’re ever in the LES.
Visit the MASTIHA SHOP to find out where it comes from and how it is used. You can even sample some. This store sells a variety of mastic-flavored products from cookies and sweets to cosmetics and gift items (corner of Panespistimiou & Kriezotou streets, Syntagma, Tel: 210 3632750). PANEPISTIMIO METRO: A 10 minute walk uphill will get you to PAPADAKIS taverna in Kolonaki. Here delicious and super fresh Greek island flavors will make you feel as if you are at a seaside taverna. This is Greek cuisine taken up one notch. The octapus simmered in a honey-wine sauce is a favorite along with the Papadakis salad. This place even makes its own ice cream. One of the favorites is the halva (sesame and honey) ice cream. Reservations recommended. Oh and order your dessert in advance! (47 Voukourestiou & Fokilidou streets,M-Sa 1:30p-12:30a, closed Sunday and for 2 weeks in August, Tel: 210 3608621). OMONIA METRO: ATHINAIKON has been serving great appetizers and meals since 1932. The ambience is remi
