Medicinal Mushroom Series: White Wood Ear (Tremella fuciformis)

This next mushroom goes by many names; White Wood Ear, Jelly fungus, Snow fungus, Snow ear, Silver ear... the list goes on. Whatever you call it, Tremella fuciformis is a small mushroom that packs a big punch in regards to health!

The White Wood Ear mushroom can be found growing mostly in the tropics and prefers the dead branches of broadleaf trees. Popularly used in soups and desserts in Chinese cuisine, this mushroom is actually tasteless, instead offering a gelatinous texture that is sought after to improve the palate of various dishes.  Due to the culinary success of the mushroom, it is now regularly cultivated and made easily available. Fortunately for us, this brings the cost down when it is used for it's medicinal value as well. Here are the top 4 benefits of the White Wood Ear Mushroom. 1) Anti-oxidant

Yet another mushroom that helps us keep chronic disease at bay by neutralizing those pesky free radicals that can wreak havoc in our bodies. Conditions such as heart disease, cancer, dementia, diabetes, asthma and degenerative eye diseases can all be linked to free radical damage. All of which can be minimized with the help of this mushroom.

2) Anti-Inflammatory

The only thing linked to more diseases and degenerative states than free radicals is inflammation. Inflammation isn't always all bad, in fact, we need it to stimulate the healing powers of the body. However, chronic inflammation that goes unchecked can start to cause real problems. Overall, ensuring minimal inflammation in the body is one of the best things you can do to continue living a happy and healthy life.

3) Immunomodulator

Like many mushrooms on this list, the White Wood Ear mushroom also possesses the ability to positively impact the immune system. It can strengthen it in those who find themselves getting sick often, and control it when it is overreacting and causing problems. 

4) Improves Memory

This last point is quite interesting. Studies show that supplementing with Tremella fuciformis can actually improve memory, specifically in those who suffer from cognitive impairments. The exact reason for this is not well understood and may be linked with its anti-oxidant capacity. That being said, it does seem to help, which can have a tremendously positive impact on someones life who suffers from this condition.

Dr. Rob Raponi ND, CISSN, B.Kine(Hons) www.msknaturopathic.com

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Facebook: @Dr.Raponi