Deer antler extract may contain the hard base of deer antlers in powdered form, the velvety covering on deer antlers, or some combination of the two. Deer antler base has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine, as documented in classical Chinese texts dating to more than 2,000 years ago. Deer antler velvet is a newer addition to the dietary supplement market, becoming more popular only in recent years.
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For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.
3 StarsReliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
2 StarsContradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
1 StarFor an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.
This supplement has been used in connection with the following health conditions:
Used for
Why
1 Star
Athletic Performance
Refer to label instructions
Deer antler base has a long history of use in Chinese medicine, and deer antler extract is being studied to determine its potential as a way to improve athletic performance.
Deer antler base has a long history of use in Chinese medicine, and deer antler extract is being studied to determine its potential as a way to improve athletic performance.The extract is purported to contain insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), which is a banned substance for many professional athletic competitions.
How to Use It
Manufacturers recommend varying doses, based on the form of the supplement. For powder, capsule, and tablet supplements, manufacturers typically recommend 500 to 1,000 mg per day. For liquid supplements, manufacturers recommend three sprays daily.
Where to Find It
Deer antler extract is found in dietary supplements. It does not occur in a typical Western diet.
Possible Deficiencies
There are no dietary or nutritional deficiencies for which deer antler is recommended or prescribed.
Interactions with Supplements, Foods, & Other Compounds
At the time of writing, there were no well-known supplement or food interactions with this supplement.
Interactions with Medicines
As of the last update, we found no reported interactions between this supplement and medicines. It is possible that unknown interactions exist. If you take medication, always discuss the potential risks and benefits of adding a new supplement with your doctor or pharmacist.
The Drug-Nutrient Interactions table may not include every possible interaction. Taking medicines with meals, on an empty stomach, or with alcohol may influence their effects. For details, refer to the manufacturers’ package information as these are not covered in this table. If you take medications, always discuss the potential risks and benefits of adding a supplement with your doctor or pharmacist.
Information about Deer Antler Extract
Side Effects
At the time of this writing, there are no well-known or consistently documented side effects caused this supplement. Some health experts express concern, and some research supports, that this supplement may be contaminated with infectious particles called prions, which cause chronic wasting disease in deer and elk. Prions, which are not broken down by high heat or other forms of processing, have been implicated in causing mad cow disease in cattle, and new variant Cruetzfeldt-Jakob disease (nvCJD), a neurodegenerative disease, in humans.
Deer antler extract is purported to contain insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), which is a banned substance for many professional athletic competitions.
The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2024.
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