4 Health Benefits Of Tremella Mushroom (Snow Fungus)

Mushrooms are known for their many health benefits. These include being rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, and having special compounds that reduce risks of disease. There are many types of healthy mushrooms and one of them is Tremella.

The tremella mushroom more commonly referred to as snow fungus is mostly credited for its skin and anti-ageing benefits. What does science say about these health claims? 

Read on to find out.

Index

• What Is The Snow Fungus?
• Health Benefits of the Snow Fungus
• Safety
• How to Take the Snow Fungus?

The Snow Fungus (Tremella fuciformis) is an edible species of mushroom that can be described as having a white, underwater coral-like appearance and shape, resembling sea anemones. In Japan, it’s called Shiro Kikurage or “white tree jellyfish.” It’s also sometimes called the Snow Fungus.

For hundreds of years, the snow fungus has been used in traditional medicine and is known for its skin hydrating and rejuvenating properties. 

Because of its appearance, many fans of the fungus dub it the “beauty mushroom.” True to its nickname, many of the health claims about the snow fungus revolve around skin health and anti-ageing.

Where does the Snow Fungus Grow?

The snow fungus thrives in tropical and subtropical places around the world, including the Caribbean, Australia, New Zealand, South and Central America, Asia, and some parts of North America.

The mushrooms prefer humid conditions and often grow on dead or dying logs and branches from broadleaf trees.

Snow Fungus Nutrition

Generally speaking, mushrooms are low in calories and are a source of quality proteins and fibre. It goes without saying that foods rich in fibre are good for your heart, digestion, and for gastrointestinal health.

Medicinal mushrooms like the snow fungus are also high in vitamin D, folate, calcium, and zinc. These nutrients play a major role in our immunity, brain development, and bone health.

Snow Fungus for Skin Health

The most popular claims for the snow fungus revolve around skin health. It’s the reason why many fans of the snow fungus supplements and snow fungus-based beauty products say they take it for its anti-ageing and skin health benefits. Some of these beauty benefits are the following:

• The mushroom contains polysaccharides that can promote skin collagen synthesis. Collagen is used to promote skin elasticity and reduce wrinkles and fine lines. [1]
• The snow fungus is a rich source of vitamin D, which can help with skin cell growth and repair. Vitamin D can also prevent premature skin ageing and excess skin oxidation.
• The fungus has been shown to improve hyaluronic acid levels. Hyaluronic acid is the body’s main lubricant and moisturizer, but has extensive benefits that also include eye and joint health. [1]
• The mushroom is also rich in kojic acid, which can help even skin discolouration, reduce age spots, and lighten skin. [2]
• Researchers say the compounds found in the snow fungus can help improve water retention, which can moisturize our skin and reduce wrinkles. [1]

Snow Fungus for for Immunity

Like most medicinal mushrooms, the fungus also has immune-boosting properties. It contains special proteins that have been shown to stimulate macrophage activity. The macrophage is a type of white blood cell that eliminates bacteria and destroys harmful damaged tissue. [3]

Its polysaccharides content (specifically, beta-glucans) can also improve immune sensitivity, allowing the body to detect potential infections and harmful bacteria sooner. [4]

Snow Fungus for Brain Health

One clinical study suggested that the mushroom possesses brain-protective properties. The researchers concluded that the snow fungus compounds support brain-cell growth, which can have potential applications in neurodegenerative disease treatments, notably Alzheimer’s disease. [5]

The white fungus also promotes nerve growth factor or NGF. NGF is part of what produces and repairs nerve tissues. A healthy nervous system supports proper movement and response to stimuli. [5]

Experts also suggest that the mushroom can have benefits for memory and help with drug-induced memory loss. One study involving 75 subjects reported better memory after taking 600 mg to 1,200 mg of tremella for 8 weeks compared to control. [6]

Snow Fungus for Inflammation

Inflammation is said to be the root cause of many, if not all, human diseases. 

Test-tube studies suggest taking mushroom extracts like the snow fungus can help lower markers of inflammation including tumour necrosis factor-alpha, nitric oxide, interleukin-1 beta, and interleukin-6. [7]

Inflammation itself isn’t bad. In fact, we need inflammation to survive, but it should be short-term. What is harmful is when inflammation becomes chronic or is in a low, but never-ending state. 

Lowering chronic inflammation can reduce the severity of inflammatory diseases like arthritis, gout, inflammatory bowel syndrome, allergies, and migraines.

If you have a mushroom allergy, you should not use mushroom extracts. Caution is advised if using mushrooms along with blood thinning medication.

Dosage Recommendation

Adding functional mushrooms to your diet is easier than you might think. Here are some simple ways to incorporate this superfood into your daily routine:

• Baseline Dose: Start with 2 capsules or 1 gram per day for general wellness. This helps you experience the foundational benefits of the mushrooms.
• Enhanced Dose: For more pronounced effects, please get in touch with us. Our team can help you determine the best approach for your needs.
  
  

Choosing the Right Mushroom Supplement

With so many mushroom supplements on the market, it's important to choose a high-quality product. Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision:

✅ Look for Pure Ingredients: Ensure the supplement contains pure mushroom extract without fillers or additives.

✅ Check for Certification: Choose products that are certified organic and free from pesticides or harmful chemicals.

✅ Reputable Brands: Opt for supplements from reputable brands that adhere to high manufacturing standards and undergo third-party testing.

Conclusion