Deer antler velvet is generally considered the soft outer covering of the anters of animals in the deer family. This includes deer, moose, elk, and caribou. However, when used as a dietary supplement, it refers to the entire antler which is similar to cartilage before it hardens into bone. It is harvested from the animals in humane ways that cause no harm to the animal to be dried and ground into a powder which may then be added to tea, taken in powder form that is mixed with liquid, or in capsules. It is considered to have many health benefits and is a particular favorite of bodybuilders. It has been used for many years in China as a traditional component of their medicine. While there are not conclusive studies about its effectiveness as an anti-inflammatory supplement that counteracts cancer, enhances the immune system, promotes growth, and is beneficial to mental functioning such as memory, it continues to be popular. It is produced primarily in Asia and Australia. However, elk antler velvet is a popular product produced in North America which is in high demand because of its quality. Bodybuilders use deer antler velvet supplements primarily for muscle building and to avoid inflammation during intense workouts. It is considered rich in amino acids, calcium, zinc, and magnesium, all vital to a bodybuilder’s regimen.Deer antler velvet has been the subject of research by a Russian scientist, Dr. Taneyeva, who has discovered many beneficial effects to ingesting it as a nutrional supplement. According his studies, in conjunction with a New Zealand scientist, Dr. Fennesy, individuals have experienced relief from shock and stress. It contains hormonal ingredients that are suggested to boost brain performance, particularly in the area of memory. While it has been a traditional supplement in the world of Eastern medicine, it is making its way to Western medicine as well. It is suggested that it boosts the performance of the immune system by increasing the development of white blood cells, the main combatants against illness in the body. Patients have experienced healing effects to the liver and kidneys as well. It is even believed to be beneficial in treating high blood pressure and arthritis. Of the myriad of positive effects, it is the ability to promote cell growth that applies to the world of athletes, specifically bodybuilders.Athletes participating in many sports have been using deer antler extract as a supplement in addition to the rest of their training regimen. When used in combination with an exercise program and special diet, it is believed to stimulate cell growth. For bodybuilders, this especially has an impact on muscle development. Muscle mass is said to increase and recovery time after injury is faster as well. Increased body strength and endurance during a workout are both attributed to the regular ingestion of deer antler velvet. Bodybuilders can increase muscle mass in a shorter amount of time in what is considered a natural and safe manner.

There are possible side effects experienced by some individuals using deer antler velvet as a nutritional supplement. While there has not been a great deal of research, it has been suggested that the contents of deer antler velvet could behave in a way that is similar to estrogen. Therefore, any person that has a condition that could be adversely affected by estrogen or other hormones that are similar should avoid use of deer antler velvet. For example, people with fibroid tumors in the uterus, ovarian cancer, uterine cancer, and possibly breast cancer should avoid use of the supplement. Increased levels of hormones such as estrogen may actually stimulate cancer growth and are to be avoided. It is unclear what affect there could be on pregnant women and their fetus. They should avoid the use of deer antler velvet until further studies with reliable data have been performed. There is the potential for allergic reactions as well as harmful interactions with other medical conditions or medications. Due to the lack of conclusive evidence, people need to take care before using deer antler velvet. It would be wise to consult a healthcare provider and to be aware of any reactions when introducing any new substance to the body. Mainly, consumers should be cautious, using small amounts and working their way up gradually to the suggested amount on a regular basis. For the most part, there are only positive reviews of the product.

Deer antler velvet is advantageous in that it is a natural product and much more desirable than supplements or drugs that often cause harmful side effects and have not had enough research to support their use. For the most part, there is a great deal of positive feedback about the regular use of deer antler velvet. People can try different varieties, such as elk, moose, caribou, or deer and document the effects of each. For athletes and bodybuilders that are extremely aware of their bodies and have complete dedication, they can add deer antler velvet as a supplement and take note of any changes. If it works, they will have a new resource to help them achieve their health and fitness goals. If the product doesn’t work for them, they will more than likely not experience any problems with deer antler velvet. The numerous benefits are well worth considering. It is a supplement that not only promotes the bodybuilder’s workout, but also many other aspects of overall health.