Snow fungus grows along various tree barks in Asia and other warmer climates around the world. Herbalists have used the pale, yellowish-white substance for well over 2,000 years in order to increase bodily fluids, cure dry cough, and palpitations. Traditionally, snow fungus has also been used as a beauty product to enhance the look of the complexion.

Preliminary research shows that snow fungus is a beneficial way to reduce cholesterol levels and prevent atherosclerosis. By decreasing the amount of blood-cholesterol, snow fungus is able to prevent it from collecting the plaques found within the arteries. Studies have shown snow fungus to be capable of maintaining the overall cholesterol levels in the cell linings, where it is a necessity as well as drawing it out of the bloodstream.

The polysaccharides found in snow fungus are proven to have an effect on certain immune cells, which amplifies the production of interferon and interlukin-2. These chemicals are vital for the immune system and stimulate the amount of germ-destroying macrophages created. Snow fungus can also boost natural killer cell activity and the efficiency of the body’s antibodies. All of these functions have a positive effect on cancer development. Furthermore, snow fungus slows down the spread of cancers by preventing the creation of separate blood-vessel systems. Its compounds combat the blood chemical called the platelet-activating factor (PAF). Therefore the blood will not form clots on which tumors can appear.

Other uses for snow fungus include fighting chronic infections, protecting the liver from harm or disease, preventing inflammation and significantly slowing down the aging process. There is also some proof that it can wipe away facial freckles if eaten regularly.

Snow fungus is available for use through extracts and in an over-the-counter medicine called Yin Mi Pian. Being a “jelly fungi,” it has absolutely no known toxicity and is safe to eat as one would with food.