Botanical Overview
Pistacia atlantica (family Anacardiaceae), commonly known as Atlas pistachio, Mount Atlas mastic tree, or wild pistachio, is native to the Mediterranean, Middle East, North Africa, and Southwest Asia. Traditional uses employ the leaves, seeds, resin, and gum of the plant.
Energetics
This species is generally considered warming and drying in nature. Its tastes include bitter, pungent, and resinous, with an ascending directionality. It is tonifying and influences the qi according to traditional energetic frameworks.
Primary Actions
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antimicrobial
- Antioxidant
- Astringent
- Expectorant
- Wound healing
Indications
Western
- Cough
- Bronchitis
- Diarrhea
- Wound infections
- Inflammation
- Skin lesions
Syndromes
- Respiratory tract infections
- Gastrointestinal inflammation
- Skin inflammation and ulcers
TCM
No specific traditional TCM indications documented.
Ayurveda
- Cough
- Cold
- Diarrhea
- Wounds
Syndromes
- Kapha imbalance related respiratory issues
- Pitta related digestive inflammation
- Skin disorders
Unani
- Bronchitis
- Diarrhea
- Wounds
Syndromes
- Phlegmatic cough
- Digestive disturbances
- Skin infections
Constituents & Mechanisms
The plant contains flavonoids, essential oils, resins, terpenoids, and phenolic compounds responsible for its antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Chewing or tincture of gum resin
- Leaf infusion: 1-3 g dried leaf infused in hot water, 2-3 times daily
- Seed oil applied topically for wound healing
Safety & Contraindications
Generally well tolerated. There is a risk of allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, especially those allergic to Anacardiaceae family plants. Use with caution or avoid in pregnancy due to lack of sufficient safety data. Potential interactions with anticoagulants should be monitored.
Astrological Correspondences
No well-documented planetary or elemental rulership found.
Selected References
- Phytochemical and pharmacological properties of Pistacia atlantica Desf.: A review
- Pistacia atlantica Desf. (PROTA)
- Medicinal Plants of the Middle East
- Antimicrobial activity of Pistacia atlantica resin