Pistacia lentiscus (Pistacia lentiscus)

Other names: River lentil

Pistachio lentil, also known as lentil tree, is an evergreen shrub or tree that normally grows to a height of 4 to 5 metres, but can grow up to 7 metres in good conditions. This plant is native to the Mediterranean region, including Greece, Spain, Italy and Morocco, and other areas of North Africa. It often grows in mountainous and rocky areas. Pistachio lentiscus is especially known for its high quality aromatic resins, which are used in the food and cosmetic industries.

The product that is extracted from the Pistacia lentiscus is lentiscus resin. This resin, also known as masticha, is used in a number of products. The best known is probably mastic gum, which is popular in Greece and the Middle East. In addition, the resin is also used in cosmetics. Products containing mastic are known for their healing and regenerative effects on the skin. In the food industry, the resin is also used as a natural preservative and additive in alcoholic beverages, ice cream, baked goods and other foods. Occasionally, it may also be used as an aromatic additive in smoky wood. In medicine, it has applications as a natural remedy for digestive problems and inflammation.