Greek mastic gum: raw resin tears

Mastic Tears – Raw PDO Chios Mastic Crystals

Mastic tears are the original, 100% natural form of Chios mastic — the resin of the mastic tree (Pistacia lentiscus var. Chia), harvested only on the Greek island of Chios and protected as PDO Chios Mastiha (Protected Designation of Origin). Large crystals are usually chewed like a natural gum, while small ones are used as a spice. Large pieces are best for chewing because they're softer inside; small pieces are often hard like a stone. Mastic naturally freshens the breath.

Advantages of mastic tears

• 100% pure natural resin, with no industrial processing
• A rare substance found only in a small area of the Greek island of Chios
• PDO Chios Mastiha — Protected Designation of Origin
• Naturally freshens the breath
• Chewing mastic gives your jaw muscles a natural workout
• Vegan, lactose-free and gluten-free

Large or small crystals – which to choose?

• Large crystals: best for chewing — softer inside, with a fresh, aromatic taste. If you're unsure how much to start with, see our guide to correct mastic gum dosage.
• Small crystals: ideal as a natural spice for cooking and baking.

How to chew mastic

Start with a medium piece. At first it may crumble, but after a few moments it softens into a pleasant natural gum. Chew as much as you like — it's simply the pure resin. Mastic's taste is naturally mild and subtle, not an intense flavour like flavoured chewing gum — that's a sign of purity, not a flaw; see why 100% pure mastic gum tastes this way. For a full step-by-step walkthrough, read how to chew raw mastic gum, and if a piece feels too hard or turns hard again after chewing, see why mastic gum is sometimes soft and sometimes hard. More tips on storage and daily use: how to use, chew and store mastic gum.

Frequently asked questions

What are mastic tears? The raw, natural resin of the Chios mastic tree, in crystal ("tear") form.

Are they PDO-protected? Yes — raw Chios mastic carries the PDO Chios Mastiha designation.

Large or small size? Large for chewing, small for use as a spice.

Where do they come from? Exclusively from the Greek island of Chios.

Why does it taste so mild, or feel hard to chew? Pure mastic has a naturally light, subtle taste rather than a strong flavour, and a piece can feel firm at first — both are normal. See our chewing guide and soft vs. hard mastic explained for tips.

Curated by the Masticlife team (Ondra & Zuzka) — mastic specialists sourcing authentic PDO Chios mastic.

The traditional name "Mastic tears" precisely describes the way this unique natural raw material is obtained. Raw mastic gum forms when sap flows out of hundreds of incisions on the trunk and branches of the mastic tree and solidifies in air and sunlight. Growing and harvesting mastic as well as its further processing have a history of thousands of years.

Raw mastic gum in the form of tears is chewed, it is a 100% natural organic chewing gum. If you are looking for an alternative to ordinary chewing gum, mastic is the real thing. While chewing, many substances found in mastic are released into the mouth and digestive system, as well as its pleasant fruity-woody flavour. For many people, chewing mastic gum is a daily pleasant and beneficial ritual. Because of its exceptional flavour and aroma, raw mastic gum is also used as a spice to flavour dishes and confectionery.

You can choose mastic tears in three sizes. If you have not chewed mastic gum before, take a look at the guide to chewing mastic gum.