White Fungus Chinese Herb

White Fungus (Yin Er): A Moistening Herb for Lungs, Skin, and Yin Nourishment

Introduction

White fungus, known as Yin Er (银耳) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is a treasured herbal food prized for its ability to nourish yin, moisten dryness, and support lung and skin health. Often called “snow fungus” or “silver ear,” this delicate, jelly-like mushroom is both a culinary delicacy and a powerful tonic, especially for those dealing with chronic dry cough, skin dehydration, or internal heat. Its sweet and neutral nature makes it ideal for all ages, and it is frequently featured in beauty soups and yin-restoring desserts.

What Is White Fungus?

Yin Er is the fruiting body of Tremella fuciformis, a translucent, frilly fungus cultivated on hardwood logs. In TCM, it is classified as sweet and neutral, entering the Lung, Stomach, Heart, and Kidney meridians. Traditionally used to nourish yin and fluids, clear heat, and lubricate the lungs and intestines, white fungus is especially favored for those recovering from illness, suffering from dryness, or seeking graceful aging.

Health Benefits of White Fungus

Moistens the Lungs and Relieves Dry Cough
Yin Er is commonly used to soothe chronic, dry coughs or throat irritation caused by Lung yin deficiency or dry climates.

Nourishes Yin and Generates Fluids
It helps relieve dry mouth, thirst, night sweats, and other signs of yin deficiency from heat or illness.

Improves Skin Hydration and Radiance
Often called the “beauty mushroom,” it supports healthy, supple skin by promoting moisture retention and collagen-like benefits.

Supports Digestion and Bowel Regularity
Its gentle fiber content soothes the Stomach and can aid in relieving dry constipation by lubricating the intestines.

Boosts Immunity and Recovery
White fungus contains polysaccharides that support immune health and recovery, particularly after fever, surgery, or respiratory infections.

How to Use White Fungus

In Soups and Desserts
Soak 3–10 grams of dried Yin Er in water until fully expanded and soft, then simmer with pear, lotus seeds, goji berries, or red dates for 30–60 minutes in a nourishing dessert soup.

In Herbal Teas or Lung Tonics
Combine with lily bulb, snow pear, or rock sugar in gentle decoctions that hydrate the lungs and ease dry coughing.

As a Functional Ingredient
Use in vegan broths, porridges, or smoothies to add a gelatinous texture and deeply nourishing quality to meals.

Where to Buy White Fungus

You can find Yin Er at the following places:

• Chinese herbal medicine shops

• Asian grocery stores

• Online retailers like Amazon, iHerb, or TCM food specialty shops

Look for:

• Pale ivory to light yellow clusters that are light and fluffy when dry

• Organic, sulfur-free, and pesticide-free labeling

• Lab-tested or food-grade certified for safety and purity

Are There Any Side Effects?

White fungus is very safe when cooked thoroughly. It should always be soaked and simmered to release its benefits and remove any residual surface dust. People with very damp digestion or loose stools should use in moderation. Always store in a cool, dry place to prevent mold growth on dried product.

Conclusion

White fungus, or Yin Er, is a gentle, moistening herb-food that nourishes the lungs, enriches yin, and enhances skin and respiratory health. Whether simmered into a beauty soup, blended into a tonic tea, or used in sweet herbal desserts, this elegant mushroom offers a soothing and nourishing path to long-term wellness.

FAQs

Can I eat white fungus every day?
Yes, in moderate amounts, especially as part of soups or teas for lung, skin, and yin support.

What does white fungus taste like?
It has a mild, slightly sweet flavor with a jelly-like, soft texture that absorbs surrounding flavors well.

Is white fungus safe for children?
Yes, when soaked and fully cooked. It is often used in pediatric herbal soups to support recovery and dryness relief.