Tremella has been used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for nearly 2,000 years. Its applications were first recorded in the Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing, the earliest known Chinese pharmacopoeia and a foundational text in TCM.
Tremella was highly valued as a jing and chi (qi) tonic—believed to nourish the lungs, heart, kidneys, stomach, and brain while supporting the body’s natural immune defenses. Traditionally reserved for royalty, it was used to replenish fluids, ease dryness, and promote internal balance, especially in those with yin deficiency.
Tremella is rich in polysaccharides, fiber, and antioxidants, and has a tradition of being prepared in soups and desserts to promote skin health and overall vitality. Yang Guifei, one of China’s Four Great Beauties, famously used Tremella to maintain her youthful glow. Its traditional uses continue to align with modern research into the mushroom’s nutrient-dense composition and wellness-supporting potential.