What in the World is Deer Antler Velvet?
Deer antler velvet is not new as a medicinal product as it was used by the ancient Chinese. In the 1930’s papers were produced which focused on the biochemical effect, composition and manufacturing of deer antler velvet. The 1960’s brought the Russian body builders claiming they received a great deal of benefit from this product.
ď śMale deer (called bucks) start growing antlers about one year of age. It starts as a little nub and each year they grow larger and larger antlers. An antler is an organ that has blood vessels, nerves and skin and not a horn like on a cow (which is a keratinized growth like toenails). In the late spring as the daylight hours are longer, the testosterone in the male deer goes into overdrive and antlers start growing.
ď śPlaces that collect deer antler velvet typically raise their own deer to assure the deer are very healthy and are in tip top shape for this important contribution they will make. ď śIf there is no human intervention, the antler hardens before mating time and then the buck will lose his antlers each year after the breeding season in December or January. They start growing a new pair the next spring.
ď śCollecting deer antler velvet is a delicate and humane process done in a small surgical suite with the animal anesthetized. The prime quality time to remove the antler is about 55-65 days into their growing season. During this phase, the antler is growing about Âź inch/day. The antler is removed and the process is started to extract the nutrients from the antler.
ď śThe very soft hair-like layer that we see is actually not usually even used in deer antler velvet pharmaceuticals. It is the spongy antler underneath from the base to the tip that can be used. ď śNutrients that are in this are reported to be: Proteins, Minerals, Growth factors, Amino acids, Glycosaminoglycans, Water, Lipids, and Trace elements: cobalt, selenium, sulphur, zinc & copper.
ď śThe harvested material is then pasteurized and sterilized, dried and then ground into a form that can be consumed such as a capsule or mixed with a liquid compound for use in a dropper. A deer antler spray is also available through some companies. This miracle drug has been reported to help both males and females, athletes, those ill and the elderly.
ď śGreat results have been reported in the following areas in humans: increased blood supply, resistance to disease and toxins, increased sexual function, antiaging properties, reduced inflammation of joints and joint pain, boosting athletic performance, stabilize blood pressure, and some have found relief from depression and help with their mood.
Deer antler velvet appears to be a winwin for all. The deer are raised humanely healthily with their velvet harvested ahead of nature’s schedule. Humans are able to reap the natural benefits from the nutrients they automatically produce. If you are suffering from any of the conditions above, don’t hesitate to give deer antler velvet a try on AntlerFarms.com http://www.antlerfarms.com/