What it is
Tremella (Tremella fuciformis, "snow fungus" or "silver ear mushroom") is a gelatinous, translucent mushroom native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia. It has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for over 2,000 years as a yin tonic for lung dryness, skin hydration, and immune support. The fruiting body contains tremella polysaccharides (primarily beta-1,3-glucans with beta-1,6 branches), tremellan, and various acidic heteropolysaccharides. Tremella is also a culinary delicacy in Chinese cuisine, prized for its jelly-like texture and subtle sweetness. Modern marketing positions it as a "beauty mushroom" for skin hydration and anti-aging.