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Deer Velvet

Introduction

Deer velvet is the soft hair covering a deer’s antlers. It has been used to improve athletic performance. Deer velvet can be taken as a pill, powder, or extract. It can also be used a spray.

Dosages

There are no advised doses for deer velvet.

What Research Shows

There is not enough data to support that deer velvet is helpful in treating health problems. We will review future studies as they are published.

Editorial process and description of evidence categories can be found at EBSCO NAT Editorial Process.

Safety Notes

It may be safe to take deer velvet for a short time. Not enough studies have been done to say whether it is safe to take for a long period.

Interactions

Talk to your doctor about any supplements or therapy you would like to use. Some can interfere with treatment or make conditions worse.

 

References

1. Conaglen HM, Suttie JM, Conaglen JV. Effect of deer velvet on sexual function in men and their partners: a double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Arch Sex Behav. 2003;32:271–8.

2. Allen M, Oberle K, Grace M, et al. A randomized clinical trial of elk velvet antler in rheumatoid arthritis. Biol Res Nurs. 2008;9:254-261.

Last reviewed February 2020 by EBSCO NAT Review Board Eric Hurwitz, DC