We all know mastic gum today as a natural health hero—used for everything from freshening breath to soothing the gut. But did you know that this ancient resin has had some seriously strange (and surprisingly useful) roles throughout history?
From royal beauty routines to medieval dentistry, mastic gum has seen it all. So, grab a cup of herbal tea, sit back, and enjoy our roundup of the weirdest, wildest uses of mastic gum through the ages.
1. Chewing Gum for Ancient Royals (and Their Dogs?)
Mastic gum is considered one of the oldest chewing gums in the world. In ancient Greece and Rome, it was a favourite of the elite—not just for fresh breath, but as a sign of sophistication. Some texts even suggest that wealthy women would give it to their pets to chew, believing it would make their fur glossier and breath sweeter.
Whether that worked or not is… up for debate. But hey, who doesn’t want a dog with royal breath?
2. An Early Toothpaste Substitute
Long before Colgate and electric toothbrushes, people used mastic to clean their teeth. Its natural antibacterial properties made it a go-to for oral hygiene. In the Middle Ages, people would chew mastic to clean the mouth and “strengthen the gums.”
Some even mixed mastic powder with vinegar or wine to make primitive mouthwash. So technically, your ancestors were into natural oral care before it was cool.
3. A Secret Ingredient in Varnish and Paints
This one’s a bit less appetising—but fascinating. During the Renaissance, mastic resin was used by artists and woodworkers as a key ingredient in varnishes and oil paints. It gave a smooth, glossy finish that was perfect for protecting masterpieces and antique furniture.
So the same stuff you’re chewing may have once helped preserve a Da Vinci.
4. Used in Eye Drops in Ancient Medicine
Yep, eye drops. Traditional Arabic and Greek medicine often included mastic gum in eye treatments, believing it could reduce inflammation and improve clarity. Of course, we don’t recommend putting gum near your eyes today (let’s stick to chewing it), but it’s wild to think mastic was once part of ancient ophthalmology.
5. A Love Potion Ingredient?
In some old Middle Eastern folklore, mastic was believed to have aphrodisiac properties. It was sometimes included in food or incense used in romantic rituals. Whether it actually worked is anyone’s guess—but hey, if fresh breath and a good digestive system aren’t attractive, we don’t know what is.
6. Currency During the Ottoman Empire
Yes, mastic was so valuable it was used like money. The Ottoman Empire tightly controlled its trade, and stealing mastic could result in extreme punishment—including exile or even death. It was literally worth its weight in gold at times.
Suddenly, your little packet of gum feels a lot more premium, right?
From ancient dental hacks to royal pet treats and Renaissance art supplies, mastic gum has worn many hats over the centuries. While we’re perfectly happy enjoying its health benefits today, it’s pretty incredible to think about how versatile—and downright bizarre—its historical uses have been.
At Greek Gum, we love sharing not just mastic gum itself, but the rich, quirky history behind it. Every chew connects you to a story that’s thousands of years old.
Curious to try this ancient wonder for yourself? Browse our products and get a taste of history.
