Velvet Foot
Also known as: Deer velvet, Elk velvet antler, Velvet antler, Velvet Foot, Cervus elaphus antler, Cervus canadensis antler, Deer Velvet Antler
Overview
Deer velvet antler, also known as elk velvet antler or simply velvet antler, is derived from the soft, cartilaginous tissue of growing deer or elk antlers. It is a complex substance containing proteins, glycosaminoglycans (including chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine), minerals, and growth factors like Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1). Traditionally used in Asian medicine, it is now marketed globally as a dietary supplement for various purposes, including improving joint health, enhancing athletic performance, and boosting sexual function. While research exists, the overall clinical evidence supporting its benefits remains limited and inconsistent. The quality of available evidence is considered moderate, with systematic reviews indicating a lack of robust, high-quality studies demonstrating significant clinical benefits in humans. It is available in various forms, including powders, capsules, and extracts.
Benefits
The evidence for the benefits of deer velvet antler is limited and inconsistent. Some studies have investigated its effects on rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, sexual function, and athletic performance, but the results are generally not statistically significant or clinically meaningful. Rheumatoid Arthritis: Two RCTs found no statistically significant improvement in symptoms compared to placebo, although some non-significant trends favored velvet antler. Osteoarthritis: Limited evidence from one RCT showed no conclusive benefit. Sexual Function: One RCT reported some improvement, but the data are insufficient for firm conclusions. Athletic Performance: Three RCTs investigated effects on sport performance with inconsistent results and no clear significant benefits. Overall, the effect sizes observed in reviewed RCTs were small or non-significant, raising questions about the clinical relevance of any potential benefits.
How it works
The proposed mechanisms of action for deer velvet antler include anti-inflammatory effects, cartilage regeneration via growth factors, and improved blood flow. It is thought to modulate the immune and musculoskeletal systems. Key molecular targets include growth factors like IGF-1 and glycosaminoglycans, which may affect cartilage metabolism. However, the oral bioavailability of these active compounds is uncertain, and variability in supplement preparations complicates understanding its pharmacokinetics. Further research is needed to fully elucidate its mechanisms of action and bioavailability.
Side effects
Deer velvet antler is generally considered safe, with no serious adverse events reported in most clinical trials. Common side effects, occurring in more than 5% of users, may include mild gastrointestinal discomfort. Uncommon side effects (1-5%) could include allergic reactions, although these are rare. No significant rare adverse events have been documented. Drug interactions are not well-documented, but caution is advised, especially in immunocompromised individuals. It is contraindicated for individuals with known allergies to deer products or those with autoimmune diseases unless under medical supervision. The safety of deer velvet antler in pregnancy, lactation, and children has not been established, so use in these populations is not recommended.
Dosage
Due to the lack of conclusive efficacy data, a minimum effective dose of deer velvet antler has not been established. Dosage ranges have varied widely in studies, with typical doses ranging from 500 mg to 3 g daily. A maximum safe dose is not clearly defined, but doses used in clinical trials have generally been well-tolerated. There are no specific timing recommendations for taking deer velvet antler. It is available in various forms, including powder, capsules, and extracts, but standardization is lacking. The bioavailability of active compounds may depend on the specific preparation. No required cofactors have been identified.
FAQs
Is Deer Velvet Antler effective for arthritis?
Current evidence does not support significant benefits for rheumatoid or osteoarthritis. Studies have shown little to no improvement in symptoms compared to placebo.
Can it improve athletic performance?
Evidence is inconsistent and insufficient to recommend deer velvet antler for performance enhancement. Clinical trials have yielded mixed results with no clear, significant benefits.
Is it safe to use?
Deer velvet antler is generally safe with mild side effects reported. However, it's best to consult a healthcare provider, especially if you are immunocompromised or have allergies to deer products.
Are there any drug interactions?
No drug interactions are well documented, but caution is advised. Always inform your healthcare provider about all supplements you are taking.
How long before effects are seen?
There is no consistent evidence of benefit over the short or long term. Clinical trials have not demonstrated any sustained or robust effects.
Research Sources
- https://nzmj.org.nz/media/pages/journal/vol-125-no-1367/health-benefits-of-deer-and-elk-velvet-antler-supplements-a-systematic-review-of-randomised-controlled-studies/b6934e2cda-1696471410/health-benefits-of-deer-and-elk-velvet-antler-supplements-a-systematic-review-of-randomised-controlled-studies.pdf – This systematic review of seven randomized controlled trials examined the efficacy of deer and elk velvet antler supplements for rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, sexual function, and athletic performance. The review found no strong evidence supporting the efficacy of these supplements for any of the investigated conditions, noting some non-significant trends but no clinically meaningful improvements. The authors highlighted the small number of high-quality RCTs, heterogeneity in study design and dosing, and potential underpowering as limitations.
- https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/ExerciseAndAthleticPerformance-HealthProfessional/ – This fact sheet from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Office of Dietary Supplements provides an overview of supplements and athletic performance. It discusses the importance of a balanced diet and hydration for athletes, and it reviews the evidence for several dietary supplements marketed to enhance exercise and athletic performance. While it doesn't specifically focus on deer velvet antler, it provides a broader context for evaluating the claims made about such supplements.
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-808/deer-velvet – This WebMD page provides general information about deer velvet, including its uses, potential benefits, and side effects. It notes that deer velvet is used for a variety of conditions, including arthritis, athletic performance, and sexual function, but it also cautions that there is limited scientific evidence to support many of these uses. The page also lists potential side effects and interactions.
- https://nzmj.org.nz/journal/vol-125-no-1367/health-benefits-of-deer-and-elk-velvet-antler-supplements-a-systematic-review-of-randomised-controlled-studies – This is a duplicate entry of the first research source. This systematic review of seven randomized controlled trials examined the efficacy of deer and elk velvet antler supplements for rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, sexual function, and athletic performance. The review found no strong evidence supporting the efficacy of these supplements for any of the investigated conditions, noting some non-significant trends but no clinically meaningful improvements.
