White fungus (Tremella fuciformis)—often referred to as “snow fungus” or “silver ear mushroom”

White fungus (Tremella fuciformis)—often referred to as “snow fungus” or “silver ear mushroom”

1. Rich in Polysaccharides with Immunomodulatory Effects

Key Benefit

• Tremella fuciformis is notably rich in water-soluble polysaccharides. These polysaccharides appear to modulate immune function by enhancing the activity of certain immune cells, such as macrophages, natural killer (NK) cells, and T-cells.

Representative Studies

1. Kim MK et al. (2021). “Polysaccharides from Tremella fuciformis (Snow Fungus) Enhance Immune Response via Activation of NF-κB and MAPK Pathways in RAW 264.7 Macrophages.” Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology, 31(3), 369–377. doi: 10.4014/jmb.2011.10017

2. Xiao X et al. (2015). “Preparation, characterization, and immune-stimulating activity of Tremella polysaccharide iron complex.” Carbohydrate Polymers, 123, 373–381. doi: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2015.01.014

2. Antioxidant Properties

Key Benefit

• Tremella fuciformis polysaccharides may help scavenge free radicals and reduce oxidative stress. This activity has been tied to potential protective effects against cellular damage.

Representative Studies

1. Lin CF et al. (2018). “Antioxidant activities and protective mechanisms of Tremella fuciformis polysaccharides in vitro and in vivo.” International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 120, 1480–1489. doi: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2018.09.145

2. Chen J & Seviour R. (2007). “Medicinal importance of fungal β-(1→3), (1→6)-glucans.” Mycological Research, 111(6), 635–652. doi: 10.1016/j.mycres.2007.02.011

3. Skin Hydration and Potential Anti-Aging Effects

Key Benefit

• Tremella fuciformis is often used in cosmetics and skincare formulations for its hydrating properties. The large water-holding capacity of Tremella polysaccharides can help maintain skin moisture, and antioxidant activity may support anti-aging benefits.

Representative Studies

1. Wu D et al. (2016). “Water-Holding Capacity and Moisturizing Effect of Polysaccharides from Tremella fuciformis.” Molecules, 21(8), 1002. doi: 10.3390/molecules21081002

2. Yang H et al. (2019). “Hydration and anti‐oxidation activities of Tremella fuciformis polysaccharide in human skin cells.” Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 18(3), 848–855. doi: 10.1111/jocd.12802

4. Potential Anti-Inflammatory and Immunoregulatory Action

Key Benefit

• Some studies indicate that Tremella fuciformis components may help regulate inflammatory pathways, thereby potentially aiding in the management of inflammation-related conditions.

Representative Studies

1. Chen G et al. (2019). “Anti-inflammatory effects of Tremella fuciformis polysaccharides in LPS-stimulated macrophage cells.” Phytomedicine, 61, 152843. doi: 10.1016/j.phymed.2019.152843

2. Li S et al. (2021). “Immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties of mushroom polysaccharides.” International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms, 23(1), 1–14. doi: 10.1615/IntJMedMushrooms.2021036974

5. Possible Metabolic and Cardiovascular Benefits

Key Benefit

• Animal model research suggests Tremella fuciformis extracts and polysaccharides might help regulate blood lipids, potentially improving cholesterol balance. Additional hypotheses propose mild hypoglycemic activity.

Representative Study

• Xia X et al. (2019). “Tremella fuciformis Polysaccharides: The Effects on Blood Lipid Metabolism and Mechanisms of Action in Hyperlipidemic Mice.” Carbohydrate Polymers, 213, 98–106. doi: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2019.02.008