Disclosed are topical compositions comprising extracts of Hypsizygus
ulmarius in amounts that are effective to influence LTB4-mediated
chemotaxis and/or IL-1.beta. mediated adhesion of polymorphonuclear
leukocytes. The hypsizygus ulmarius extract may be used alone or in
combination with secondary anti-inflammatory and skin active agents, such
as other mushroom and/or natural extracts. The secondary
anti-inflammatory agents may or may not function by antagonizing
LTB4-mediated chemotaxis and IL-1.beta. mediated adhesion. The extract
may be incorporated into a cosmetically acceptable vehicle. The present
invention includes methods of treating skin inflammation by applying to
inflamed skin, anti-inflammatory effective amounts of Hypsizygus ulmarius
extract in a defined treatment regimen.