A regular of the maquis scrubland and garrigues, Pistacia lentiscus, also called "mastic" or "terebinth", is a shrub of the Anacardiaceae family, which may reach three metres.
It grows in Mediterranean climates and its name derives from the Latin lentus (viscous) referring to its gum. Its leaves are green and persistent, and resemble those of the olive tree. It has a small, non-comestible fruit with a stone.
Main aromatic molecules: Monoterpenes (myrcene, α-pinene, limonene), sesquiterpenes, monoterpenols and sesquiterpenols.
Family: Anacardiaceae.
Producing organs: Branches and leaves.
Yield: 15g of essential oil per 100kg of plants.
Equivalence: 1ml → 24 drops (dosage calculated for a calibrated dropper European Pharmacopoeia).
