Due to the formation of gelatinous fruit bodies, the Tremella species belong to the family known as jelly mushrooms.

Tremella fuciformis – also known as "snow mushroom" or "beauty mushroom"- is known to mimic the hydrating benefits of hyaluronic acid.

From a dietary perspective, Tremella fuciformis is nutritiously rich in polysaccharides, proteins, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. The Tremella fuciformis polysaccharides (TPS) have proven to have positive biological effects, including but not limited to:

• Memory reparation
• Restores moisture loss
• Fights free radicals to help prevent sun damage
• Skin hydration
• Boost Collagen production

Tremella fuciformis can suppress damage caused to human skin fibroblasts. Pre-treatment with Tremella fuciformis led to a decrease in reactive oxygen species (ROS) and cell death demonstrating the potential for Tremella fuciformis therapy against oxidative-stress-induced skin disease and aging. (study)

The polysaccharides in tremella also forms a flexible film on the skin that locks in moisture, smooths and lends to increase elasticity. 

Tremella can boost collagen production, reduce the appearance of acne, and enhance skin appearance. 

Tremella's antioxidant properties have been shown to aid in reducing inflammation in the skin related to hot spots irritation, acne, and skin redness.

• Anti-tumorigenic
• Anti-inflammatory
• Alleviates redness and irritation of the skin
• Balances histamine levels and helps alleviate seasonal allergies

Reishi helps to stabilize the mast cells to inhibit their release of histamine. Histamines are released by mast cells in reaction to allergens or pathogenic invaders.  Itching, runny nose, eye irritation, and redness of mucous membranes are the result of an overactive response. In our fur babies, this can look like excessive scratching/chewing, sneezing, wheezing, or runny discharge from the eyes or nose. (Study)

Martin Powell, a Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner, biochemist, author, and mushroom expert, weighs in on administering reishi mushrooms for dogs with allergies:

“Ganoderma lucidum (reishi) as immunonutrition, with its unique array of compounds working in concert, could play a major role in current treatment practices for histamine-mediated allergic response. Ganoderma lucidum (reishi) is an effective agent to restore the normal balance between the TH1 and TH2 immune states in patients with histamine-mediated immune responses. Such an approach treats the underlying cause for the TH2 condition.” (Link)