Busting Antler Velvet Myths

Deer antler velvet is an established supplement material, capable of providing numerous benefits thanks to the multitude of nutrients that are present in it. Regardless if you're taking it raw, in capsule or sprays, you will experience wondrous health benefits. That said however, it is still shrouded in mystery and numerous misconceptions which are made by critics and pundits who have no idea what they are talking about. So, in order to erase all doubts, let's clarify these doubts and dubious statements.

“Antler velvet is in the same league as steroids”

Some people say that deer antler velvet and steroids are alike in a lot of ways, even saying that the former dishes out horrible side effects that the latter brings as well. Some include enlarged breasts, potbellies and shrunken privates, especially in men – these make steroids pretty much unsafe. However, antler velvet CANNOT and WILL NOT cause the above mentioned complications, given that it is natural and the nutrients that it provides are in safe doses. The supplement does not even dish out harmful side effects.

“IT DOESN'T WORK”

First off, deer antler velvet has been used as a libido, strength and endurance tonic in Chinese and Korean folk medicine since two thousand years ago. We all know that traditional – or alternative medicine – may make claims that may seem pure quackery, but have sufficient basis. The fact that it has been used for thousands of years attests to its effectiveness in boosting strength and endurance (we highly doubt the libido part). Recent scientific studies have backed the supplement – it contains Insulin Growth Factor-1 or IGF-1 and a ton of other minerals and proteins that promote muscle growth and hasten recovery from fatigue.

Insulin Growth Factor-1 can cause side effects

This statement is true, however, the side effects only manifest themselves if the body is they are taken in excessive and dangerous amounts, something that deer antler velvet does not do. The amount of IGF-1 present in the supplement is just enough to promote bodily functions and not cause damage. It is a safer option than IGF-1 injections, given that the latter has chemical components and that the use of needles are not always safe. Like what was previously mentioned, antler velvet has no reported side effects.

Antler velvet should be banned because it harms the deer!

In countries such as the United States, deer are hunted down for venison (deer meat) and are even turned into trophies. You don't see anyone complaining about it being cruel. That said, most of the world's supply of antler velvet comes from Australia and New Zealand, mainly because of the thousands of deer farms in those countries. The removal process is delicate: it is done by a licensed professional in the presence of a veterinarian, who in turn administers a sedative. The pre-calcified antlers are cut off and they re-grow in a couple of months. That said, these farms try to create a good environment for the deer and their safety, health and well-being is assured. It doesn't sound so cruel right?