Nomenclature
Balsam tree; pistachia galls; mastiche; mastix; lentisk; Mastisol. Description and references
Concrete resinous exudation from Pistacia
lentiscus L., Anacardiaceae. Habit. Mediterranean
Islands, especially Chios. Constit. Volatile oil (about
2%); masticinic, masticonic acids; masticoresene.
Properties
Pale yellow or greenish-yellow, globular, elongated
or pear-shaped tears; slightly balsamic odor and terebene taste.
Almost insol in water. Nearly completely sol in alcohol; 1 g dissolves
in 0.5 ml chloroform, 0.5 ml ether; partially sol in oil turpentine.Use
In tooth cements, plasters, lacquers, chewing gums,
and incense; also for retouching negatives.