The main objective of this research project is to study the resin and seeds of the Pistacia atlantica subsp. Cypricola, known as tremithos. This tree thrives mainly in the forest of Paphos and its products have traditionally been used as therapeutics for decades. Unfortunately, the use of synthetic drugs leads to the disappearance of these natural products. The novelty of this project lies in the fact that this is the first time a complete study is carried out on the chemical composition of these products and their antimicrobial and antioxidant activity.

The main objectives of this study are:

• Determination of the chemical composition of the resin and the fruits.
• Evaluation of the antioxidant capacity of the samples
• Evaluation of their antimicrobial activity against gram negative bacteria and gram positive bacteria.
• Examination of the influence of harvest time and growing area on chemical properties.
• Finally, a comparison of the results obtained from the present work for Pistacia atlantica subsp. Cypricola with other natural medicines.

The completion of this project will possibly open a new market for a forgotten local product that has many and important properties. The results obtained will promote the use of a natural medicine, especially at a time when there is a significant shift towards the use of natural substances.

Acronym: PISATLA

Category: National Projects

Funding: Research & Innovation Foundation

Program: Post-Doctoral Research