For thousands of years, different cultures have chewed a variation of gum-like substances. The Greeks chewed mastic tree sap; Mayans used sapodilla tree sap; Native Americans preferred spruce sap; and ancient Middle Eastern travelers used frankincense oleoresin. Although there are many reasons to chew gum, some of the most interesting (at least to me) include to promote oral health and to help control appetite.
Frankincense oleoresin was traditionally chewed by ancient Middle Eastern travelers during long journeys when days were long and food was scarce. These days, you will often see contestants on NBC’s The Biggest Loser chewing gum. In fact, according to the National Institutes of Health, the simple act of chewing distracts your mouth and prevents cravings. The effect that chewing gum has on cravings and hunger management is also the subject of many current studies.
So how does chewing gum improve oral health? As we eat, acids are created in the mouth as food is broken down. Over time these acids have the potential to break down tooth enamel, which can lead to additional oral issues. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), chewing gum triggers the production of saliva that washes away or dilutes these acids. Clinical studies show that after a minimum of 20 minutes of chewing, optimal oral benefits are reached.
Slique Gum combines pure, natural frankincense chewing resin, peppermint and spearmint essential oils, and xylitol into a one-of-a-kind chewing experience. The gum base is free of synthetic material and is cold pressed to preserve the benefits that ancient caravan travelers enjoyed.
If you want to spice your gum up a little, then you can try adding 1–2 drops of Slique Essence prior to chewing. This adds additional flavor and a hint of sweetness. It also adds additional Slique benefits. It should be noted, however, that adding any type of citrus oil to the gum modifies the gum consistency and may alter the chewing experience.
