What is Tremella (Snow Fungus)?

What is Tremella (Snow Fungus)?

Snow fungus, also known as Tremella, is a celebrated culinary and therapeutic mushroom that has been integral to Asian cuisine and Traditional Chinese Medicine for over two thousand years. Renowned for its medicinal properties, it was documented in one of the oldest texts on traditional medicine, the Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing (circa 200 AD), which is a seminal Chinese work on agriculture and medicinal plants.

Tremella thrives in tropical and subtropical regions, including China, the Pacific Islands, Nigeria, Hawaii, and India. In its natural habitat, it grows on fallen and decaying logs and tree trunks, but it is also cultivable. Its fruiting body is distinctive and attractive, being both translucent and gelatinous, which has earned it various nicknames like "silver ear mushroom" and "white jelly fungus."

With its chewy, supple texture and mild flavour, Tremella is a favourite ingredient in Chinese cuisine, especially in sweet dishes such as 'luk mei'—a dessert soup.

The History of Tremella

Tremella mushroom has a rich history of traditional use, once believed to contribute to "a long and unblemished life" when consumed. Both Chinese and Japanese women historically used snow fungus for beauty purposes, such as reducing freckles and promoting a glowing, youthful complexion. This has led to its moniker, the "beauty mushroom."

In recent years, Tremella has gained popularity in the West as a medicinal mushroom, supported by research suggesting its benefits extend beyond skin health. According to the book Icons of Medicinal Fungi from China (1987), Snow fungus "stimulates the heart, nourishes the brain, [and] enriches the kidneys."

Modern research supports these claims, particularly regarding Tremella’s benefits for cardiovascular health and neurological function.

What are Some Snow Fungus Benefits?

Snow fungus contains an antioxidant enzyme called superoxide dismutase, which has been linked to protecting micro blood vessels in the skin. This enzyme may also enhance moisture retention in the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Other beauty benefits of Tremella mushroom include:

• Attracts and holds water: Helps with moisture and elasticity.
• Anti-melanin production: Aids in addressing skin pigmentation, uneven skin tone, and scarring.
• Promotes skin elasticity and collagen production.
• Anti-inflammatory properties.

Beyond skin health, key antioxidants and polysaccharides in snow fungus contribute to:

• Improved insulin sensitivity.
• Inhibition of enzyme pathways related to diabetic conditions.
• Protection against LDL cholesterol oxidation, thus preventing plaque buildup in arteries.
• Enhanced memory and protection of brain cells against nerve damage and degeneration.
• Stimulation of key white blood cells for improved immune function.

How to Use It

With its light, delicate flavour, Tremella mushroom powder can be added to smoothies, yoghurt bowls, porridge, or your favourite hot drinks.

Precautions

Though there are no reported side effects or toxicity, it is recommended that pregnant women avoid taking Tremella mushroom as a precaution.

Snow Fungus Supplements

Given its myriad benefits, why not try snow fungus for yourself?

Beyond consuming the mushroom itself, supplements offer a higher concentration of active compounds. Mushrooms For Life’s Tremella supplements come in capsules and powder form, containing 100% hot-water extracted mushroom for maximum polysaccharide content, including beta glucans and proteoglycans. It’s organic and free from fillers or unnecessary ingredients—an excellent addition to your beauty regimen!

DISCLAIMER - The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or replace professional medical advice. If you have an existing medical condition or are taking any medications, please consult a qualified healthcare provider. Dietary supplements should complement, not replace, a varied and balanced diet.