Chicle is a natural gum obtained from the sapodilla tree, primarily found in tropical regions of Central America. It has been used for centuries by indigenous peoples for chewing and as a base for making chewing gum. The process of harvesting chicle involves tapping the tree to collect its milky sap, which is then processed and dried. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, chicle became popular in the United States as a key ingredient in commercial chewing gum. However, the rise of synthetic alternatives has reduced its use in modern gum production. Today, chicle is often associated with natural and organic products, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers.