The fungus Tremella fuciformis, also known as snow fungus or beauty mushroom, is an interesting species of fungus that attracts attention with its unique, gelatinous structure. It is characterised by its white, leaf-like fruiting bodies and is widespread, especially in tropical regions where it thrives on the dead branches of deciduous trees. In China, hake scrapie is valued in both cuisine and medicine for its valuable properties. As a parasitic fungus, it initially develops as a mucilaginous film and its full development occurs after attacking suitable Annulohypoxylon hosts, leading to intensive mycelial growth and the formation of characteristic fruiting bodies.
Properties of Tremella:
Nourishes and moisturises the skin
Tremella fuciformis is valued for its moisturising and nourishing properties. The polysaccharides found in this fungus are excellent at retaining water, which translates into effective skin hydration. Tremella can retain up to five hundred times its own weight in water, making it even more effective than hyaluronic acid in maintaining optimal hydration levels. Regular use of tremella, both in the form of serums and supplements, promotes skin regeneration, improves skin elasticity and protects against sun exposure, pollution and micro-damage [1].
Increases collagen and elastin production
Collagen and elastin are proteins that give the skin its elasticity and resilience. Unfortunately, their amount in the skin decreases with age, which contributes to the appearance of wrinkles and loss of firmness. Research shows that the polysaccharides in tremella can support the production of these proteins. Taking tremella supplements regularly can help repair damaged collagen and reduce collagen loss, resulting in tighter, more supple skin. With these properties, tremella supports the regenerative processes of the skin, improving its texture and appearance [1].
Supports optimal brain function and cognitive abilities
Research published in 2018 showed that supplementation with Tremella fuciformis has neurological benefits, such as stimulation of new neurons. The clinical trial examined the effects of daily supplementation of tremella mushroom on cognitive function. The study involved 75 volunteers with cognitive impairment who took either 600 mg or 1,200 mg of Tremella fuciformis daily or a placebo. The groups taking tremella showed significant improvements in short-term memory and cognitive function compared to the placebo group [2].
Anti-inflammatory properties
Tremella fuciformis has powerful anti-inflammatory properties that have been used in traditional medicine for centuries. Applications of this mushroom include combating chronic inflammation in the body, the cause of many chronic diseases. Tremella is also effective in reducing liver inflammation caused by infections. It acts as a preventative and supplement to help regulate immune responses, making it a valuable support in maintaining overall wellbeing [3].
[1] Meng Yang, Zilong Zhang, Yan He, Chengliang Li, Jinmei Wang, Xia Ma (2021), Study on the structure characterization and moisturizing effect of Tremella polysaccharide fermented from GCMCC5.39, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fshw.2021.04.009.
[2] Ban SoonHyun, S. L. Lee, H. S. Jeong, Lim SooMee Lim SooMee, Park ShinWon Park ShinWon, Hong YoungSun Hong YoungSun, J. E. Kim (2018), Efficacy and safety of Tremella fuciformis in individuals with subjective cognitive impairment: a randomized controlled trial
[3] Christopher Hobbs (2020), Medical mushrooms. The essential guide, Storey Publishing
