The Basic Facts:
Velvet antler supplement promotes strong bones and joints,repairs and rebuilds cartilage; is the only renewable source of glucosamine HCL and chondroitin sulfate; restores vitality in older dogs; promotes healthy joints in growing dogs; boosts immune system. Bonus Velvet Antler comes in an easy to feed chewable form – highly palatable; the best joint supplement on the market!
All glucosamine supplements are not created equal. Most of the supplements on the market contain glucosamine that comes from cow, chicken, or shark cartilage and the cheaper the product is, generally, the cheaper and lower quality the glucosamine source. So even though you might be paying less for a cheaper product that's usually exactly what you're getting and it probably won't help your dog very much.
Not only is velvet antler a superior source of glucosamine and chondroitin, it also contains approximately 40 key compounds that have been shown to re-build cartilage and bone, build cells and boost energy, reduce infection and inflammation, and protect blood cells, the heart, liver and lungs.
Bonus Velvet Antler
All glucosamine supplements are not created equal. Most of the supplements on the market contain glucosamine that comes from cow, chicken, or shark cartilage and the cheaper the product is, generally, the cheaper and lower quality the glucosamine source. So even though you might be paying less for a cheaper product that's usually exactly what you're getting and it probably won't help your dog very much.
Not only is velvet antler a superior source of glucosamine and chondroitin, it also contains approximately 40 key compounds that have been shown to re-build cartilage and bone, build cells and boost energy, reduce infection and inflammation, and protect blood cells, the heart, liver and lungs.
Bonus Velvet Antler
- An all natural product, it does not contain any added fillers, artificial preservatives, colors or flavors.
- Highest glucosamine content per milligram of any dog supplement on the market
- Easy to feed form that dogs love
- Velvet antler is the only renewable source of glucosamine and chondroitin
Average Composition of Hard Antler
Dry Matter 92.7%
Moisture 7.3% Dry Matter Basis Crude Protein 42.5% Calcium 24.20% Phosphorus 9.47% |
Magnesium 0.44%
Potassium 0.09% Iron 261PPM Zinc 74 PPM Manganese 4 PPM |
Velvet Antler: Myth or Reality?
An Article by Practicing Veterinarian, Dr. Clinton Balok
I awoke in the middle of the night with a start. It was mid-December and I was sweating. "What in the world are you doing?" I asked myself. You are actually going to try to convince people that eating the antlers of a bull elk is going to make them feel better. I made myself some hot chocolate and sat down in the living room so I wouldn’t wake up the whole house. As I pondered the elk business and the velvet industry in particular, I scratched the ears of my old Labrador, Chip. Chip was twelve years old and could barely move. Age and an active life were taking a toll on him. If only I could give him some medication for his deteriorating hips and elbows that would provide him with some relief and not destroy his liver and kidneys.
As a practicing veterinarian, I have watched thousands of dogs, cats and horses suffer from the crippling effects of osteoarthritis. This is a condition of the joints similar to the condition millions of people deal with daily. The production cartilaginous surfaces of the joints begin to erode and wear away. When this occurs, bone begins rubbing on bone and the pain can be excruciating. As this process progresses, the body attempts to heal the insulted joints by sending calcium to repair the damaged bone. These abnormal bone deposits deform the normal joints even more and increase the pain and discomfort of day-to-day activity.
I studied the literature on elk velvet and the claims made by people of many countries. As I researched the product, it seemed to me that it could cure most ailments, had no side effects and was perfectly natural. To say I was a doubting Thomas was an understatement. I knew many people in the elk business, and I knew the demand for velvet antler by the Koreans had fueled the fire of a burgeoning new livestock industry. The little voice in my head kept saying, "Ostrich, emus, exotic cattle." Can this product produce the effects claimed in the literature? Can this product produce any of these effects? What can I do to prove to myself that this is not snake oil or smoke and mirrors?
As I visited with elk breeders on both sides of the Canadian border, it became apparent to me that the velvet industry in North America was indeed a lucrative but very fragile business. The industry was totally dependent upon the whims of the Asian market, primarily Korea. A North American market for velvet antler products needed to be developed and encouraged. To satisfy my skepticism, I had to see proof beyond a reasonable doubt that we were promoting a product that had more than a mystical, psychological effect – an effect or effects which could be reproduced in trials around the world.
I scratched Chip’s ears and looked at my old faithful friend. "If this product could improve Chip's quality of life, it would be tremendous, " I mused. Also, a dog could not be convinced he was going to feel better. He would either show and improvement, or he wouldn’t. It seemed very straightforward to me. Animals could be used to test the efficacy of the product, and the response of the animal to the treatment regimen could be qualitatively evaluated. Probably not a very scientific experiment, but certainly one that would produce some answers to the questions I had.
I bounced my idea off of some friends of mine in the industry, and I was strongly encouraged to initiate a study. I talked with several veterinarians and asked if they would like to participate, but I was met with a lot of doubt and skepticism. The veterinary profession was having a difficult time accepting the fact that alternative medicine may have a place among our arsenal of drugs and surgical procedures.
We have a very large mixed animal practice in northwest New Mexico, and we have many animals suffering from arthritis fractures and the ravages of old age. Would the average client be open to trying a radically different form of treatment on their beloved pets? The answer to this question was a resounding yes. People were excited to try a new form of treatment which may increase the quality of life of their animals. They were especially thrilled to know that a lack of response seemed to be the worst that could happen. To date, we have not documented any side effects with the use of this product. In some cases, a blood chemistry profile was established and checked after a period of time on the product, with special attention paid to the kidney and liver function tests.
Animals on trial have ranged from 6 months of age to 19 years of age, both canine and feline. Breeds range from Chihuahua to Newfoundland. Conditions being treated are various bone, ligament and tendon conditions, and various other conditions related to aging.
The effects of elk velvet on Chip were remarkable. After a period of time he moved with much greater ease and could go up and down stairs again, and his appetite and coat improved. Chip’s quality of life improved greatly, and his life was extended for more than a year. Chip was the first of many animals I have watched respond favorably to elk velvet.
Countless case studies, have made it clear to me that velvet antler has a place on my shelf for treating a number of osteoarthritic and musculoskeletal conditions in animals. Not all animals respond, but then, an aspirin does not work on all headaches. Alternative treatments for many conditions are becoming more commonplace in both people and pets.
As a practicing veterinarian, I have watched thousands of dogs, cats and horses suffer from the crippling effects of osteoarthritis. This is a condition of the joints similar to the condition millions of people deal with daily. The production cartilaginous surfaces of the joints begin to erode and wear away. When this occurs, bone begins rubbing on bone and the pain can be excruciating. As this process progresses, the body attempts to heal the insulted joints by sending calcium to repair the damaged bone. These abnormal bone deposits deform the normal joints even more and increase the pain and discomfort of day-to-day activity.
I studied the literature on elk velvet and the claims made by people of many countries. As I researched the product, it seemed to me that it could cure most ailments, had no side effects and was perfectly natural. To say I was a doubting Thomas was an understatement. I knew many people in the elk business, and I knew the demand for velvet antler by the Koreans had fueled the fire of a burgeoning new livestock industry. The little voice in my head kept saying, "Ostrich, emus, exotic cattle." Can this product produce the effects claimed in the literature? Can this product produce any of these effects? What can I do to prove to myself that this is not snake oil or smoke and mirrors?
As I visited with elk breeders on both sides of the Canadian border, it became apparent to me that the velvet industry in North America was indeed a lucrative but very fragile business. The industry was totally dependent upon the whims of the Asian market, primarily Korea. A North American market for velvet antler products needed to be developed and encouraged. To satisfy my skepticism, I had to see proof beyond a reasonable doubt that we were promoting a product that had more than a mystical, psychological effect – an effect or effects which could be reproduced in trials around the world.
I scratched Chip’s ears and looked at my old faithful friend. "If this product could improve Chip's quality of life, it would be tremendous, " I mused. Also, a dog could not be convinced he was going to feel better. He would either show and improvement, or he wouldn’t. It seemed very straightforward to me. Animals could be used to test the efficacy of the product, and the response of the animal to the treatment regimen could be qualitatively evaluated. Probably not a very scientific experiment, but certainly one that would produce some answers to the questions I had.
I bounced my idea off of some friends of mine in the industry, and I was strongly encouraged to initiate a study. I talked with several veterinarians and asked if they would like to participate, but I was met with a lot of doubt and skepticism. The veterinary profession was having a difficult time accepting the fact that alternative medicine may have a place among our arsenal of drugs and surgical procedures.
We have a very large mixed animal practice in northwest New Mexico, and we have many animals suffering from arthritis fractures and the ravages of old age. Would the average client be open to trying a radically different form of treatment on their beloved pets? The answer to this question was a resounding yes. People were excited to try a new form of treatment which may increase the quality of life of their animals. They were especially thrilled to know that a lack of response seemed to be the worst that could happen. To date, we have not documented any side effects with the use of this product. In some cases, a blood chemistry profile was established and checked after a period of time on the product, with special attention paid to the kidney and liver function tests.
Animals on trial have ranged from 6 months of age to 19 years of age, both canine and feline. Breeds range from Chihuahua to Newfoundland. Conditions being treated are various bone, ligament and tendon conditions, and various other conditions related to aging.
The effects of elk velvet on Chip were remarkable. After a period of time he moved with much greater ease and could go up and down stairs again, and his appetite and coat improved. Chip’s quality of life improved greatly, and his life was extended for more than a year. Chip was the first of many animals I have watched respond favorably to elk velvet.
Countless case studies, have made it clear to me that velvet antler has a place on my shelf for treating a number of osteoarthritic and musculoskeletal conditions in animals. Not all animals respond, but then, an aspirin does not work on all headaches. Alternative treatments for many conditions are becoming more commonplace in both people and pets.
Velvet Antler - A Gift From Nature
by Cindy Ewashkiw & Dr. Marion Allen
A recently published booklet, titled Velvet Antler - A Gift From Nature, has already sold over 5,000 copies. This publication was co-authored by Dietary Technologist Cindy Ewashkiw and University of Alberta Professor of Nursing Dr. Marion Allen, provides a wealth of information about velvet antler and its uses. The following excerpt (taken from Issue 7 Volume 2 of the Wisconsin Commercial Deer & Elk Farmers Association) from the booklet describes the physical composition of velvet antler and some of the possible benefits from its use. The booklet's forward clearly states that it is not intended to provide medical advice or take the place of any advice given by health professionals. It does, however, provide answers to many of the common questions regarding the use of the elk velvet antler products. This booklet is an ideal reference for alternative health care providers and marketers of velvet antler products.
What is the composition of velvet antler?
Active ingredients found in velvet antler include a variety of minerals, trace elements, protein, fatty acids, gylcosaminoglycans, growth hormones, and growth factors. These ingredients and their use in the body are outlined in the following tables.
Mineral and Trace Elements
Calcium (Ca)provides structure for bones and teeth, and is essential for nerve impulse conduction, muscle contraction and blood clottingCopper (Cu)necessary for red blood cell development, bones, and nervesIron (Fe)essential for blood cells transporting oxygen through out the bodyManganese (Mn)needed for development of bones and connective tissue, and for normal functioning of the nervous systemMagnesium (Mg)needed in metabolic reactions and storing and releasing energy cellsPhosphorous (P)provides structure for bones and teeth, and is a component of nearly all metabolic reactionsPotassium (K)need for nerve and muscle functionSelenium (Se)powerful antioxidantSulfur (S)is a component amino acids and insulinZinc (Zn)part of the enzymes involved in digestion and respiration, and is necessary for normal wound healing and skin health
Proteins/Collagen/Lipids
Proteins - are the structural materials in cells, and aid in growth and repair of tissues.
Collagen major structural component of bones, tendons, ligaments, and cartilageLipidsbuild cell parts and boost energy for cellular activities (all essential fatty acids including omega 3 and 6)
(including all essential amino acids):
Insulin-like Growth Factor (IGF-1) and Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF)Growth hormones and factors have an effect on growth and maintenance of bones and promoting protein and fat metabolism, stimulating cartilage growth, and thickening and lengthening bones in children. They also have growth promoting actions on the skin
Growth Hormones and Growth Factors
Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs)
Hyaluronic acidis the cement material of connective tissue and a component fluid that cushions the jointChondrointin Sulfateextremely potent anti-inflammatory agentGlucosamine Sulfatean amino sugar that occurs naturally in the body. Its glue-like qualities help to hold tissues together. It is also a major component of synovial fluid, lubricates and serves as a shock absorber for the jointsErythropoeitina hormone produced in the kidneys and released into the bloodstream in response to low oxygen levels, thus helping to increase oxygen-carrying capacity of the bloodProstaglandinschemical messenger produced in virtually all tissues, causing a broad range of positive effects on many of the body's defense systemsPhospholipidschemical messenger produced in virtually all tissues, causing a broad range of positive effects on many of the body's defense systemsGlycosphingolipidsinvolved in cell metabolism and growth
What benefits can be expected?
The list of benefits demonstrated by research and noted through anecdotal evidence on velvet antler is lengthy: Though investigation has only just begun in North America, research findings and medical accounts from Asia and New Zealand are already convincing. The reports suggest that velvet antler stimulates the body's metabolism and protects and restores damaged organ tissues by accelerating healing. Velvet antler is also thought to help the body battle invaders that produce inflammation by increasing phagocytic functions. Phagocytic cells, such as white blood cells, surround, eat, and digest cell waste and microorganisms. There is also some suggestion that blood pressure is lowered with velvet antler consumption and enhanced thyroid function.
Velvet antler has gonadotrophic function, which means it enhances the hormone that causes the testes and ovaries to do their work. Historical accounts from Korea refer to velvet antler being used for infertility, miscarriage prevention, and helping pregnant women have an easier delivery.
Research findings, clinical trials, and anecdotal evidence certainly demonstrate the value of velvet antler for health issues. Four key areas of investigation as the effects of velvet antler are: immune system, energy and stamina, arthritis and inflammation, and the aging process.
Help for the Immune System
The human body has its own internal healing and protection mechanism called the immune system. It fights off invaders caused by disease, stress, poor nutrition, meager living habits, and drugs. Some common signs of a weakened immune system is fatigue, listlessness, continuous infections, and slow healing.
Having and maintaining a strong immune system is essential to good health. Eating sensibly, getting proper rest, and exercising are all very important factors in staying healthy. Think of your immune system as your own little internal army. Tiny soldiers are fighting off any invaders that dare to enter their territory. The stronger the soldiers are in that army, the better the chances are of stopping invaders before they can cause any damage. This is why constantly nurturing and supporting the immune system is so important to staying healthy.
Researchers in New Zealand investigated velvet antler's effect on human white blood cells because of its long history of being taken for immune system support. Studies demonstrated that aqueous extracts of velvet antler were highly potent in causing an increase in human white blood cell count. This, of course, is a good thing as white blood cells are one of the immune system's first lines of defense when invaders come attacking.
Increasing Energy and Stamina
Athletes, who are in strength training programs, often seek effective nutritional supplementation programs. One such supplement may be velvet antler because of its excellent amino acid composition and mineral content. Fourteen different essential and non-essential amino acids are available in velvet antler. Velvet antler has been shown to have performance enhancing effects in both humans and animals based on the results of numerous studies. For example, research was done in Russia in which anabolic agents known to improve performance and muscular strength in athletes were analyzed. When studies using velvet antler were done, it showed the kayakers, weightlifters, bodybuilders and powerlifters all increased both muscular and nerve strength. The aim of taking velvet antler, according to one Russian scientist with the Russian bodybuilding Federation, it to resist unfavorable external influences, and accelerate the restorative processes (quicker recovery) of the body after intensive activity.
Easing the Symptoms of Arthritis and Other Inflammatory Disorders
Rheumatoid arthritis is a disorder resulting in chronic inflammation of the joints, tissue around the joints, and other organs in the body. The cause of this painful disease is unknown, though there are several theories. These include:
Some of the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include joint pain, heat, and swelling, particularly in the morning and after long periods of inactivity. As the disease progresses, the cartilage, joints, ligaments, and tendons begin to breakdown, causing further loss of joint function. Further advancement can affect one's daily activities such as work, social functioning, and eventually even personal independence.
While rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory type of disease, osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease. Actual breakdown of the cartilage that covers the ends of bones occurs. Osteoarthritis also causes bones to become brittle which, of course, increases the risk of the bones cracking or breaking. It can be a hereditary disease and affects three times as many women over the age of 60 as men.
Many of the nutrients found in velvet antler are important for arthritis sufferers. Glucosamine, chondroitin, sulfate, essential fatty acids, calcium, phosphorous, magnesium, copper, zinc, selenium, growth hormones, and growth factors are all vital for growth and maintenance of joints, tissues and synovial fluids.
Compliance has been met with U.S. Food and Drug Administration regulations to allow a claim to be made about velvet antler products. The specific claim substantiated by scientific evidence, states that the velvet antler "provides nutritional support for joint structure and function."
Modern research studies continue as people suffering with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis claim relief from painful and swollen joints.
Inhibiting the Aging Process
A number of changes continually occur in the body as part of the aging process. The skin, ligaments, and tendons begin to loose elasticity. Even larger arteries loose elasticity, causing increased blood pressure, decreased hear rate, and decreased blood flow through the heart. The body may also become less able to adapt to environmental changes such as cold weather. The immune system weakens with age, leaving the body less able to heal and repair itself. Some people experience memory loss and decreased ability to solve problems. As one grows older, a decrease in the body's ability to digest food properly often leads to nutritional deficiencies and diseases related to these deficiencies. Available research suggests that components, such as growth hormones and growth factors (and possibly some yet to be discovered components) available in velvet antler, may be key in slowing aging process.
One of the growth hormones in velvet antler is IGF-1 (insulin like growth factor). A study conducted at Oxford University in England lead researchers to believe that the IGF-1 contained in velvet antler has medicinal value for humans. IGF-1 was shown to promote muscular development, prevent muscular atrophy (breakdown), and slow the deteriorating effects of aging. Further research on the anti-aging effects to velvet antler need to be done.
What is the composition of velvet antler?
Active ingredients found in velvet antler include a variety of minerals, trace elements, protein, fatty acids, gylcosaminoglycans, growth hormones, and growth factors. These ingredients and their use in the body are outlined in the following tables.
Mineral and Trace Elements
Calcium (Ca)provides structure for bones and teeth, and is essential for nerve impulse conduction, muscle contraction and blood clottingCopper (Cu)necessary for red blood cell development, bones, and nervesIron (Fe)essential for blood cells transporting oxygen through out the bodyManganese (Mn)needed for development of bones and connective tissue, and for normal functioning of the nervous systemMagnesium (Mg)needed in metabolic reactions and storing and releasing energy cellsPhosphorous (P)provides structure for bones and teeth, and is a component of nearly all metabolic reactionsPotassium (K)need for nerve and muscle functionSelenium (Se)powerful antioxidantSulfur (S)is a component amino acids and insulinZinc (Zn)part of the enzymes involved in digestion and respiration, and is necessary for normal wound healing and skin health
Proteins/Collagen/Lipids
Proteins - are the structural materials in cells, and aid in growth and repair of tissues.
Collagen major structural component of bones, tendons, ligaments, and cartilageLipidsbuild cell parts and boost energy for cellular activities (all essential fatty acids including omega 3 and 6)
(including all essential amino acids):
Insulin-like Growth Factor (IGF-1) and Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF)Growth hormones and factors have an effect on growth and maintenance of bones and promoting protein and fat metabolism, stimulating cartilage growth, and thickening and lengthening bones in children. They also have growth promoting actions on the skin
Growth Hormones and Growth Factors
Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs)
Hyaluronic acidis the cement material of connective tissue and a component fluid that cushions the jointChondrointin Sulfateextremely potent anti-inflammatory agentGlucosamine Sulfatean amino sugar that occurs naturally in the body. Its glue-like qualities help to hold tissues together. It is also a major component of synovial fluid, lubricates and serves as a shock absorber for the jointsErythropoeitina hormone produced in the kidneys and released into the bloodstream in response to low oxygen levels, thus helping to increase oxygen-carrying capacity of the bloodProstaglandinschemical messenger produced in virtually all tissues, causing a broad range of positive effects on many of the body's defense systemsPhospholipidschemical messenger produced in virtually all tissues, causing a broad range of positive effects on many of the body's defense systemsGlycosphingolipidsinvolved in cell metabolism and growth
What benefits can be expected?
The list of benefits demonstrated by research and noted through anecdotal evidence on velvet antler is lengthy: Though investigation has only just begun in North America, research findings and medical accounts from Asia and New Zealand are already convincing. The reports suggest that velvet antler stimulates the body's metabolism and protects and restores damaged organ tissues by accelerating healing. Velvet antler is also thought to help the body battle invaders that produce inflammation by increasing phagocytic functions. Phagocytic cells, such as white blood cells, surround, eat, and digest cell waste and microorganisms. There is also some suggestion that blood pressure is lowered with velvet antler consumption and enhanced thyroid function.
Velvet antler has gonadotrophic function, which means it enhances the hormone that causes the testes and ovaries to do their work. Historical accounts from Korea refer to velvet antler being used for infertility, miscarriage prevention, and helping pregnant women have an easier delivery.
Research findings, clinical trials, and anecdotal evidence certainly demonstrate the value of velvet antler for health issues. Four key areas of investigation as the effects of velvet antler are: immune system, energy and stamina, arthritis and inflammation, and the aging process.
Help for the Immune System
The human body has its own internal healing and protection mechanism called the immune system. It fights off invaders caused by disease, stress, poor nutrition, meager living habits, and drugs. Some common signs of a weakened immune system is fatigue, listlessness, continuous infections, and slow healing.
Having and maintaining a strong immune system is essential to good health. Eating sensibly, getting proper rest, and exercising are all very important factors in staying healthy. Think of your immune system as your own little internal army. Tiny soldiers are fighting off any invaders that dare to enter their territory. The stronger the soldiers are in that army, the better the chances are of stopping invaders before they can cause any damage. This is why constantly nurturing and supporting the immune system is so important to staying healthy.
Researchers in New Zealand investigated velvet antler's effect on human white blood cells because of its long history of being taken for immune system support. Studies demonstrated that aqueous extracts of velvet antler were highly potent in causing an increase in human white blood cell count. This, of course, is a good thing as white blood cells are one of the immune system's first lines of defense when invaders come attacking.
Increasing Energy and Stamina
Athletes, who are in strength training programs, often seek effective nutritional supplementation programs. One such supplement may be velvet antler because of its excellent amino acid composition and mineral content. Fourteen different essential and non-essential amino acids are available in velvet antler. Velvet antler has been shown to have performance enhancing effects in both humans and animals based on the results of numerous studies. For example, research was done in Russia in which anabolic agents known to improve performance and muscular strength in athletes were analyzed. When studies using velvet antler were done, it showed the kayakers, weightlifters, bodybuilders and powerlifters all increased both muscular and nerve strength. The aim of taking velvet antler, according to one Russian scientist with the Russian bodybuilding Federation, it to resist unfavorable external influences, and accelerate the restorative processes (quicker recovery) of the body after intensive activity.
Easing the Symptoms of Arthritis and Other Inflammatory Disorders
Rheumatoid arthritis is a disorder resulting in chronic inflammation of the joints, tissue around the joints, and other organs in the body. The cause of this painful disease is unknown, though there are several theories. These include:
- The immune system not working properly.
- Genetic makeup passed down from parents.
- An unexplained immune system response to a virus, bacteria, or mycoplasma (microscopic organisims without rigid cell walls).
- The body's response to environmental factors.
Some of the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include joint pain, heat, and swelling, particularly in the morning and after long periods of inactivity. As the disease progresses, the cartilage, joints, ligaments, and tendons begin to breakdown, causing further loss of joint function. Further advancement can affect one's daily activities such as work, social functioning, and eventually even personal independence.
While rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory type of disease, osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease. Actual breakdown of the cartilage that covers the ends of bones occurs. Osteoarthritis also causes bones to become brittle which, of course, increases the risk of the bones cracking or breaking. It can be a hereditary disease and affects three times as many women over the age of 60 as men.
- Some common causes of osteoarthritis are:
- Bone injury
- A defect in the protein that makes up cartilage
- Wear and tear of aging
Many of the nutrients found in velvet antler are important for arthritis sufferers. Glucosamine, chondroitin, sulfate, essential fatty acids, calcium, phosphorous, magnesium, copper, zinc, selenium, growth hormones, and growth factors are all vital for growth and maintenance of joints, tissues and synovial fluids.
Compliance has been met with U.S. Food and Drug Administration regulations to allow a claim to be made about velvet antler products. The specific claim substantiated by scientific evidence, states that the velvet antler "provides nutritional support for joint structure and function."
Modern research studies continue as people suffering with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis claim relief from painful and swollen joints.
Inhibiting the Aging Process
A number of changes continually occur in the body as part of the aging process. The skin, ligaments, and tendons begin to loose elasticity. Even larger arteries loose elasticity, causing increased blood pressure, decreased hear rate, and decreased blood flow through the heart. The body may also become less able to adapt to environmental changes such as cold weather. The immune system weakens with age, leaving the body less able to heal and repair itself. Some people experience memory loss and decreased ability to solve problems. As one grows older, a decrease in the body's ability to digest food properly often leads to nutritional deficiencies and diseases related to these deficiencies. Available research suggests that components, such as growth hormones and growth factors (and possibly some yet to be discovered components) available in velvet antler, may be key in slowing aging process.
One of the growth hormones in velvet antler is IGF-1 (insulin like growth factor). A study conducted at Oxford University in England lead researchers to believe that the IGF-1 contained in velvet antler has medicinal value for humans. IGF-1 was shown to promote muscular development, prevent muscular atrophy (breakdown), and slow the deteriorating effects of aging. Further research on the anti-aging effects to velvet antler need to be done.