Tremella fuciformis
The Beauty Mushroom
500×
Water Retention
150+
Studies Published
2,000+ yrs
Traditional Use
Tang Dynasty
Beauty Use
Tremella fuciformis — known as Snow Fungus, Silver Ear, or White Jelly Mushroom — is a translucent, gelatinous mushroom prized for centuries as a beauty tonic. Its extraordinary capacity to hold nearly 500 times its weight in water makes it a natural hyaluronic acid analog, drawing comparisons to the world's most expensive skincare ingredients. Beyond skin health, Tremella produces unique acidic polysaccharides with potent antioxidant and immune-modulating properties.
Tremella has been a staple of Chinese beauty culture for over 2,000 years. Yang Guifei — considered one of the 'Four Great Beauties' of ancient China and the favored consort of Emperor Xuanzong during the Tang Dynasty (618–907 AD) — reportedly attributed her legendary complexion to daily consumption of Tremella soup. It was prescribed in TCM as a yin tonic to moisten the lungs, nourish the skin, and support healthy aging. Tremella desserts remain a popular delicacy across East and Southeast Asia today.
Superior moisture retention — holds 500× its weight in water
Natural hyaluronic acid alternative for skin hydration
Supports skin elasticity, plumpness, and radiance
Antioxidant protection for cellular anti-aging
Supports lung moisture and respiratory comfort
Prebiotic support for gut microbiome health
Bioactive Compound Profile
The primary bioactive polysaccharide in Tremella. Exceptional water-binding capacity (500× its weight) provides intense hydration to skin and mucosal tissues.
Multiple polysaccharide fractions with antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and prebiotic properties.
Contains ergosterol that converts to vitamin D2 upon UV exposure, supporting bone and immune health.
Rich in soluble fiber that supports digestive health and serves as a prebiotic substrate.
Contribute to Tremella's antioxidant profile, scavenging free radicals and protecting cellular membranes.
Research into Tremella has expanded significantly since 2015, with over 150 published studies. Its acidic polysaccharides (particularly glucuronoxylomannan) have demonstrated exceptional water-binding capacity, surpassing hyaluronic acid in some comparative studies. A 2016 study in the International Journal of Biological Macromolecules showed that Tremella polysaccharides significantly increased skin hydration markers and reduced transepidermal water loss. Additional research has explored its antioxidant capacity (particularly superoxide radical scavenging), neuroprotective potential, and its ability to modulate gut microbiota composition.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.