CHICLE (CHEWING GUM) TREE

The original chewing gum came from the sap of a rainforest tree (Lacmellea sp.). When the bark is cut, the white sap oozes out and you can roll it around in your hand whereupon it becomes rubbery and can be chewed—instant chewing gum! Modern brands of chewing gum are based on synthetic substitutes but it is still possible to buy the authentic product. In South America, chewing gum is still called "chicle."