Side Effects & Safety Information: Mastic Gum

Mastic gum is generally considered safe, but it’s a good idea to check with your doctor before using it. As a food supplement, it is not intended to replace a doctor-approved treatment plan, and it may interact with medication you already take.

Mastic gum: safety at a glance

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General safety:
Mastic gum is generally considered safe. Check with your doctor before starting.
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Side effects:
Stop use and contact your doctor if you notice any unusual or persistent effects.
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Pregnancy & breastfeeding:
Not enough information — avoid use to stay safe.
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Children:
Not intended for children under 3 years of age.
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Allergies:
People allergic to Pistacia species (e.g. pistachio) may also react to mastic.
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Medication:
May interact with medicines — ask your doctor if you take any.

Is mastic gum safe?

Mastic gum has been chewed and used as a food for thousands of years and is generally well tolerated. As with any food supplement, a few sensible precautions apply:

  1. Mastic gum is generally considered safe. If you experience any unusual or persistent effects, stop using it and contact your doctor.
  2. Pregnancy and breastfeeding: there isn’t enough reliable information, so it’s best to avoid use during these times.
  3. Children: mastic supplements are not intended for children under 3 years of age.
  4. Allergy: people allergic to mastic trees or other Pistacia species (such as pistachio) may also react to mastic. See our allergen statement for details.
  5. Medication: mastic may interact with medicines you already take — consult your doctor first, and do not stop prescribed medication without their approval.
  6. Do not exceed the recommended daily dose, keep out of the reach of children, and remember a supplement does not replace a varied, balanced diet.
Important: Mastic gum is a food supplement, not a medicine. It is not intended to diagnose, treat or replace medical care. If you have a health condition or take medication, talk to your doctor before use.

Frequently asked questions

Does mastic gum have side effects?

Mastic is generally well tolerated. If you notice any unusual or persistent effects, stop using it and contact your doctor.

Can I take mastic during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

There isn’t enough reliable information, so it’s best to avoid mastic supplements during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Is mastic safe for children?

Mastic supplements are not intended for children under 3 years of age.

Can mastic cause an allergic reaction?

People allergic to mastic trees or other Pistacia species (such as pistachio) may also react to mastic. If you have a tree-nut allergy, ask your doctor before use.

Can I take mastic with medication?

Mastic may interact with medicines, so consult your doctor before combining them, and never stop prescribed medication without your doctor’s approval.

Want to learn more before you start?

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