What Is Mastic Gum? From Chios Resin to Turkish Coffee

One of the most beloved flavored varieties of Turkish coffee is made with a unique resin from the Aegean: mastic gum, known in Turkish as damla sakızı. But what exactly is mastic gum, where does it come from, and why has it been so valued for centuries, both in the kitchen and in traditional remedies? Let's follow its journey from the island of Chios to your cup.

What Is Mastic Gum?

Mastic gum is a natural resin that seeps from small incisions cut into the trunk of the mastic tree (Pistacia lentiscus). It takes its name from the only place in the world where it grows at this quality: the Greek island of Chios — nowhere else does the tree produce this particular aroma, thanks to the island's unique climate and soil. It's also grown in smaller quantities along the Aegean coast, particularly around Çeşme. In 2014, UNESCO added it to the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

How Is Mastic Gum Harvested?

During the harvest season, which runs from mid-August to September, fine cuts are made in the tree's bark. The resin that seeps out hardens over about two weeks into small, translucent "tears" — hence the name (damla means "drop" in Turkish). The gathered resin is hand-sorted, washed, and cleaned, largely following traditional methods passed down through generations.

What Are Its Benefits?

Mastic gum is prized for more than its pleasant aroma:

• Digestive support — traditionally used to ease stomach discomfort
• Antiseptic properties — known as a natural aid for sore throats and oral health
• A natural breath freshener — often called the world's first chewing gum, it supports oral hygiene when chewed

That's why mastic gum has found a place not only in kitchens but in traditional remedies for centuries.

Why Is Mastic Gum Used in Turkish Coffee?

Turkish coffee culture has a long tradition of pairing regional aromas with coffee. Mastic gum is one of the most elegant examples: it adds a light, resinous, refreshing, faintly sweet note to the cup. As in rice pudding or ice cream, its characteristic aroma — with a subtle hint of pine — comes through in coffee too, though not intensely, just enough to balance the coffee's deep flavor with a delicate touch.

Our Recommendation: Mastic Turkish Coffee

Our Mastic Turkish Coffee pairs this traditional Aegean aroma with our carefully roasted Turkish coffee. We grind it to order and ship it fresh to your door — an ideal choice if you're looking for something different from classic Turkish coffee.

Explore our other flavored blends in our Turkish Coffee collection.

In short...

Mastic gum is a special ingredient that travels from the natural heritage of Chios all the way to your cup of Turkish coffee, valued for both its flavor and its traditional benefits. If you'd like to try this delicate, refreshing aroma in your next cup, our Mastic Turkish Coffee is the one to reach for.