Is Deer Antler Velvet Banned? Setting the Record Straight

by Jason J. Duke - Owner/Artisan

Fresh Content: January 13, 2025 20:50

Majestic stag with fully grown antlers standing in a field, signifying the natural source of deer antler velvet, a legal dietary supplement.

A magnificent stag in its natural habitat. Deer antler velvet, harvested from the growing antlers during the velvet stage, is a completely legal and natural dietary supplement. Contrary to some misconceptions, it is not a banned substance in most sports.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any health concerns. Consult with your healthcare professional before starting any lifestyle modifications or new supplements.

This article is part of the the Deer Antler Velvet Comprehensive Guide to Benefits, Uses, Dosages, and Science.

Alright, let's cut through the noise and get straight to the point. You've probably heard whispers about deer antler velvet (DAV) and whether or not it's banned in sports. There's a lot of misinformation out there, fueled by shady marketing and a general lack of understanding. As a strength and conditioning coach who's seen the benefits of DAV firsthand, I'm here to set the record straight. We're going to break down the facts, separate myth from reality, and give you the knowledge you need to make informed decisions about using this powerful supplement.

What is Deer Antler Velvet and Why Should You Care?

Before we jump into the legal stuff, let's briefly recap what DAV is and why it's relevant to athletes and anyone looking to optimize their performance. Deer antler velvet is the soft, growing tissue that covers the antlers of male deer during their annual growth phase. This stuff is a powerhouse of nutrients and bioactive compounds, including growth factors, amino acids, collagen, and minerals.

Traditionally, it's been used for centuries to support vitality, strength, and recovery. In the context of modern fitness, DAV can offer support for:

  • Muscle Growth and Repair: Provides the building blocks and growth factors needed to support muscle protein synthesis.
  • Strength and Power: May enhance neuromuscular function and energy production.
  • Joint Health: Contains collagen, glucosamine, and chondroitin, which are crucial for maintaining healthy joints.
  • Recovery: Supports the body's natural recovery processes, potentially reducing muscle soreness and downtime.

Now, let's address the elephant in the room: the legality of deer antler velvet, especially for athletes. The short answer is: No, deer antler velvet itself is not a banned substance. It is a legal dietary supplement.

However, there's been some confusion surrounding this, primarily due to the presence of naturally occurring growth factors like Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1) in DAV.

There's often confusion surrounding the legal status of deer antler velvet, particularly in the context of sports. It's important to clarify that deer antler velvet itself is not a banned substance and is a legal dietary supplement. However, certain sports organizations have specific regulations regarding some of its components, leading to misunderstandings.

The Source of Confusion: Growth Factors and Misleading Marketing

The primary source of confusion stems from the presence of naturally occurring growth factors, particularly Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1), in deer antler velvet. Some supplement companies have unfortunately engaged in misleading marketing practices, exaggerating the IGF-1 content of their products or falsely claiming that their products contain synthetic or isolated IGF-1. This has led to concerns among sports organizations about the potential for athletes to inadvertently ingest banned substances.

Sports Organizations and Specific Regulations

  • World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA): WADA previously included deer antler velvet on its banned list due to concerns about IGF-1 but later revised its stance. As of 2024, deer antler velvet is not listed as a prohibited substance by WADA. However, WADA cautions athletes that deer antler velvet products may contain other prohibited substances, and athletes are ultimately responsible for any substances found in their bodies.
  • National Football League (NFL): The NFL banned deer antler velvet in the past due to concerns about IGF-1. This ban was based on misconceptions and misleading marketing rather than on any inherent danger of DAV itself. The NFL does not currently list deer antler velvet as a banned substance.
  • Major League Baseball (MLB): Similarly, MLB previously banned deer antler velvet but has since removed it from their prohibited substances list.

It's crucial to note that the regulations of sports organizations can change. Athletes subject to drug testing should always consult the most up-to-date prohibited substances list of their specific governing body and exercise caution when using any supplement.

The Reality: Natural IGF-1 in Food

It's important to understand that IGF-1 is a naturally occurring hormone found in many animal-derived foods, including milk and meat. Deer antler velvet, as a natural food, contains IGF-1 as part of its complex nutritional profile. The mere presence of IGF-1 in a supplement does not automatically make it a banned substance. The key distinction lies between naturally occurring IGF-1 in whole foods or complex natural substances like DAV, and synthetic or isolated forms of IGF-1, which are prohibited in many sports.

Avoiding Misleading Products

To avoid any potential issues, consumers should be wary of products that:

  • Emphasize high levels of IGF-1 in their marketing.
  • Claim to contain isolated or synthetic IGF-1.
  • Make exaggerated claims about performance enhancement or muscle growth.

Choosing reputable manufacturers that are transparent about their sourcing, processing, and testing practices is crucial. Look for products that focus on the holistic benefits of deer antler velvet as a whole-food supplement, rather than highlighting isolated components.

Choosing Quality and Staying Informed

Here's the bottom line:

  • DAV is legal: You can buy it, sell it, and use it without breaking any laws.
  • Know the Rules: If you're an athlete, check the specific regulations of your sport. While WADA doesn't ban it, individual leagues or organizations might have their own rules.
  • Choose Quality: Not all DAV products are created equal. Look for reputable brands that use low-temperature processing and are transparent about their sourcing.
  • Don't Fall for Hype: Be skeptical of products that make outrageous claims or focus solely on IGF-1 content.

Power Velvet and the Power Pack: Your Edge

For those looking for a high-quality, effective deer antler velvet product, we offer Power Velvet, a potent liquid extract made using a specialized hydro-alcohol process that preserves the full spectrum of DAV's bioactive compounds. It's designed for maximum bioavailability and rapid absorption, making it ideal for pre-and post-workout use.

Tonic Tinctures Power Velvet

Power Velvet

We've developed Power Velvet specifically for individuals seeking to maximize their athletic performance and achieve their physique goals. It's a potent, high-quality liquid extract made using a meticulous hydro-alcohol extraction process that preserves the full spectrum of DAV's bioactive compounds.

Power Velvet is designed to:

  • Support rapid absorption and bioavailability: The liquid form allows for faster uptake of the active compounds compared to capsules or powders.
  • Deliver a concentrated dose of growth factors, amino acids, and other performance-supporting nutrients: Each serving provides a potent dose of the key components that can enhance strength, power, and recovery.
  • Be taken conveniently before, during, or after workouts: The liquid form is easy to take on the go and can be quickly absorbed for pre-workout energy or post-workout recovery.

We also offer the Power Pack, which combines Power Velvet with our standard Deer Antler Velvet capsules and our Regen Elixir for a comprehensive approach to health optimization.

Tonic Tinctures Power Pack

Power Pack

For those seeking a more comprehensive approach, we offer the Power Pack, which combines Power Velvet with our standard Deer Antler Velvet and our Regen Elixir. This powerful combination provides:

  • Power Velvet: For pre-workout energy, focus, and performance enhancement, delivering the fast-acting benefits of a liquid extract.
  • Deer Antler Velvet: For foundational support of overall health, recovery, and well-being, providing a broader spectrum of nutrients in capsule form.
  • Regen Elixir: A tonic superfood blend to further support endocrine function, vitality, and resilience, offering a synergistic blend of adaptogenic herbs and other nourishing ingredients.

Discount Bundle Offer @ 19% OFF:

We offer a special discount on the Power Pack. This is your chance to experience the difference a high-quality liquid extract can make in your training and recovery.

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9. Safety Considerations and Potential Interactions

While deer antler velvet is generally considered safe for most individuals when used appropriately, it's important to be aware of potential safety considerations and possible interactions with medications or other supplements.

Conclusion: Legal and Safe When Used Responsibly

Deer antler velvet is a legal dietary supplement and its use is not prohibited by the vast majority of sports organizations. The concerns surrounding it have largely stemmed from misleading marketing and a lack of understanding about its natural composition. When sourced responsibly and used appropriately, deer antler velvet can be a safe and valuable addition to a health optimization regimen.

References and Further Reading

The information presented in this guide draws upon a combination of traditional knowledge, scientific research, and industry resources. While we have made every effort to ensure accuracy, it is important to continue your own research and consult with qualified professionals as needed. Here are some key sources that informed the development of this guide:

Scientific Studies

  1. Arzmi, M. H., John, A., Rismayuddin, N. A. R., Kenali, N. M., & Darnis, D. S. (2021). LC-MS Data set on the Malayan Deer (Cervus timorensis) Antler Velvet and its antibiofilm activity against Candida species. Data in Brief, 34, 106769. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.dib.2021.106769

  2. Zhang, R., Li, Y., & Xing, X. (2021). Comparative antler proteome of sika deer from different developmental stages. Scientific Reports, 11(1), 10556. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-89829-6

  3. Sui, Z., Sun, H., Weng, Y., Zhang, X., Sun, M., Sun, R., ... & Zhang, L. (2019). Quantitative proteomics analysis of deer antlerogenic periosteal cells reveals potential bioactive factors in velvet antlers. Journal of Chromatography A, 1608, 460496. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chroma.2019.460496

  4. Huo, Y.-S., Huo, H., & Zhang, J. (2014). The contribution of deer velvet antler research to the modern biological medicine. Chinese Journal of Integrative Medicine, 20(11), 803–808. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11655-014-1827-1

  5. Xiao, X., Li, L., Xu, S., Mao, M., Pan, R., Li, Y., Wu, J., Huang, L., & Zheng, X. (2017). Evaluation of velvet antler total protein effect on bone marrow‑derived endothelial progenitor cells. Molecular Medicine Reports, 16(4), 4009-4016. https://doi.org/10.3892/mmr.2017.7019

  6. Guo, X.-H., Cheng, X.-L., Liu, W.-X., Li, M.-H., Wei, F., & Ma, S.-C. (2018). Identification of velvet antler and its mixed varieties by UPLC-QTOF-MS combined with principal component analysis. Journal of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Analysis, 164, 29-36. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpba.2018.10.009

  7. Kuo, C.-Y., Cheng, Y.-T., Ho, S.-T., Yu, C.-C., & Chen, M.-J. (2018). Comparison of anti-inflammatory effect and protein profile between the water extracts from Formosan sambar deer and red deer. Journal of Food and Drug Analysis, 26(3), 957-967. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jfda.2018.02.005

  8. Sui, Z., Zhang, L., Huo, Y., & Zhang, Y. (2014). Bioactive components of velvet antlers and their pharmacological properties. Journal of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Analysis, 87, 229-240. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpba.2013.07.044

  9. Yao, B., Zhang, M., Leng, X., & Zhao, D. (2019). Proteomic analysis of the effects of antler extract on chondrocyte proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis. Gene, 690, 107-114. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11033-019-04612-1

  10. Cheng, S.-L., Jian, Y.-L., Chen, C.-M., & Liu, B.-T. (2017). Relationships between antioxidants and quality characteristics from velvet antlers of Formosan sambar deer. Korean Journal for Food Science of Animal Resources, 37(4), 542-551. https://doi.org/10.5851/kosfa.2017.37.4.542

  11. Wu, F., Li, H., Jin, L., Li, X., Ma, Y., You, J., ... & Xu, Y. (2013). Deer antler base as a traditional Chinese medicine: A review of its traditional uses, chemistry and pharmacology. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 145(2), 403-415. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2012.12.008

  12. Wang, W., Zhang, J., Yang, X., & Huang, F. (2019). Hypoglycemic activity of CPU2206: A novel peptide from sika (Cervus nippon Temminck) antler. Journal of Food Biochemistry, 43(12), e13063. https://doi.org/10.1111/jfbc.13063

  13. Yu, Y., Jin, Y., Wang, F., Yan, J., Qi, Y., & Ye, M. (2017). Protein digestomic analysis reveals the bioactivity of deer antler velvet in simulated gastrointestinal digestion. Food Research International, 99(Pt 1), 239-247. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodres.2017.04.002

  14. Hung, Y.-K., Ho, S.-T., Kuo, C.-Y., & Chen, M.-J. (2021). In vitro effects of velvet antler water extracts from Formosan sambar deer and red deer on barrier integrity in Caco-2 cells. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 22(5), 2358. https://doi.org/10.7150/ijms.53599

  15. Haines, S. R., McCann, M. J., Grosvenor, A. J., Thomas, A., Noble, A., & Clerens, S. (2019). ACE inhibitory peptides in standard and fermented deer velvet: an in silico and in vitro investigation. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 19(1), 340. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12906-019-2758-3

  16. Zhao, L., Wang, X., Zhang, X.-L., & Xie, Q.-F. (2016). Purification and identification of anti-inflammatory peptides derived from simulated gastrointestinal digests of velvet antler protein (Cervus elaphus Linnaeus). Journal of Food and Drug Analysis, 24(3), 587-595. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jfda.2015.10.003

  17. Zha, E., Dandan, L., Bai, X., Zhou, T., Li, Y., Shenyang, G., & Yue, X. (2016). A recombinant polypeptide from velvet antler of Cervus nippon Temminck exhibits similar immunomodulatory effects as its natural counterpart. Immunopharmacology and Immunotoxicology, 38(6), 406-414. https://doi.org/10.1080/08923973.2016.1233978

  18. Zhang, P., Guo, Z., Ma, L., Wang, G., & Zhao, Y. (2020). Investigation of anti-fatigue effect and simultaneous determination of eight nucleosides in different parts of velvet antler in red deer and sika deer. Chemistry & Biodiversity, 17(1), e1900512. https://doi.org/10.1002/cbdv.201900512

  19. Sleivert, G., Burke, V., Palmer, C., Walmsley, A., Gerrard, D., Haines, S., & Littlejohn, R. (2003). The effects of deer antler velvet extract or powder supplementation on aerobic power, erythropoiesis, and muscular strength and endurance characteristics. International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism, 13(3), 251-265. https://doi.org/10.1123/ijsnem.13.3.251

  20. Allen, M., Oberle, K., & Russell, A. (2002). Elk Velvet Antler in Rheumatoid Arthritis: Phase II Trial. The Internet Journal of Alternative Medicine, 3(3). https://doi.org/10.1177/1099800402003003001

  21. Syrotuik, D. G., MacFadyen, K. L., Harber, V. J., & Bell, G. J. (2005). Effect of elk velvet antler supplementation on the hormonal response to acute and chronic exercise in male and female rowers. International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism, 15(4), 366-385. https://doi.org/10.1123/ijsnem.15.4.366

  22. Conaglen, H. M., Suttie, J. M., & Conaglen, J. V. (2003). Effect of deer velvet on sexual function in men and their partners: a double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Asian Journal of Andrology, 5(3), 271-278. https://doi.org/10.1023/a:1023469702627

  23. Francis, S. M., & Suttie, J. M. (1998). Detection of growth factors and proto-oncogene mRNA in the growing tip of red deer (Cervus elaphus) antler using reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Journal of Experimental Zoology, 281(1), 36-42. https://doi.org/10.1002/(sici)1097-010x(19980501)281:1<36::aid-jez6>3.0.co;2-d

  24. Huo, Y., Schirf, V. R., & Winters, W. D. (1993). The differential expression of NGF-like substance from fresh pilose antler of Cervus nippon Temminck. Abstracts of the 2nd International Symposium on antler science and product technology, Changchun, China. (Abstract only). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9731418/

  25. Garcia, R. L., Sadighi, M., Francis, S. M., Suttie, J. M., & Fleming, J. S. (1997). Expression of neurotrophin-3 in the growing velvet antler of the red deer Cervus elaphus. Journal of Molecular Endocrinology, 19(2), 173-182. https://doi.org/10.1677/jme.0.0190173

  26. Pita-Thomas, W., Fernández-Martos, C., Yunta, M., Maza, R. M., Navarro-Ruiz, R., Lopez-Rodríguez, M. J., ... & Nieto-Diaz, M. (2010). Gene expression of axon growth promoting factors in the deer antler. PLoS ONE, 5(12), e15006. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0015006

  27. Clark, D. E., Lord, E. A., & Suttie, J. M. (2006). Expression of VEGF and pleiotrophin in deer antler. Anatomical Record Part A: Discoveries in Molecular, Cellular, and Evolutionary Biology, 288(12), 1281-1291. https://doi.org/10.1002/ar.a.20393

  28. Feng, J. Q., Chen, D., Esparza, J., Harris, M. A., Mundy, G. R., & Harris, S. E. (1995). Deer antler tissue contains two types of bone morphogenetic protein 4 mRNA transcripts. Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - Gene Structure and Expression, 1263(2), 163-168. https://doi.org/10.1016/0167-4781(95)00106-q

  29. Xia, P., Liu, D., Jiao, Y., Wang, Z., Chen, X., Zheng, S., ... & Hao, L. (2022). Health effects of peptides extracted from deer antler. Frontiers in Nutrition, 9, 987605. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2022.987605

  30. Mikler, J. R., Theoret, C. L., & High, J. C. (2004). Effects of topical elk velvet antler on cutaneous wound healing in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 10(5), 835-840. https://doi.org/10.1089/acm.2004.10.835

  31. Zha, E., Gao, S., Pi, Y., Li, X., Wang, Y., & Yue, X. (2012). Wound healing by a 3.2 kDa recombinant polypeptide from velvet antler of Cervus nippon Temminck. Journal of Antler Science and Technology, 22, 652–655.

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  33. Gilbey, A., & Perezgonzalez, J. D. (2012). Health benefits of deer and elk velvet antler supplements: a systematic review of randomised controlled studies. New Zealand Medical Journal, 125(1367), 80-86. https://www.nzma.org.nz/journal/read-the-journal/all-issues/2010-2019/2012/vol-125-no-1367/article-gilbey

  34. Pavlenko, S. M. (1960). Pantocrin: a publication of articles on studies of cutative properties in pantocrin. Sojuzchimexport. https://search.worldcat.org/title/pantocrin-a-publication-of-articles-on-studies-of-cutative-properties-in-pantocrin/oclc/58021848

  35. Guan, M., Pan, D., Zhang, M., Leng, X., & Yao, B. (2021). Deer antler extract potentially facilitates xiphoid cartilage growth and regeneration and prevents inflammatory susceptibility by regulating multiple functional genes. Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research, 16(1), 200. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13018-021-02350-4

  36. Yao, B., Zhou, Z., Zhang, M., Leng, X., & Zhao, D. (2021). Investigating the molecular control of deer antler extract on articular cartilage. Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research, 16(1), 22. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13018-020-02148-w

  37. Yao, B., Gao, H., Liu, J., Zhang, M., Leng, X., & Zhao, D. (2019). Identification of potential therapeutic targets of deer antler extract on bone regulation based on serum proteomic analysis. Gene, 710, 378-386. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11033-019-04934-0

  38. Chen, J., Yang, Y., Abbasi, S., Hajinezhad, D., Kontulainen, S., & Honaramooz, A. (2015). The effects of elk velvet antler dietary supplementation on physical growth and bone development in growing rats. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2015, 819520. https://doi.org/10.1155/2015/819520

  39. Chen, J.-C., Hsiang, C.-Y., Lin, Y.-C., & Ho, T.-Y. (2014). Deer antler extract improves fatigue effect through altering the expression of genes related to muscle strength in skeletal muscle of mice. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2014, 540580. https://doi.org/10.1155/2014/540580

  40. Xie, W.-Q., Zhao, Y.-J., Li, F., Shu, B., Lin, S.-R., Sun, L., & Wang, Y.-J., Zheng, H.-X. (2019). Velvet antler polypeptide partially rescue facet joint osteoarthritis-like phenotype in adult β-catenin conditional activation mice. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 19(1), 192. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12906-019-2607-4

  41. Tseng, S.-H., Sung, C.-H., Chen, L.-G., Lai, Y.-J., Chang, W.-S., & Wang, C.-C. (2014). Comparison of chemical compositions and osteoprotective effects of different sections of velvet antler. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 151(1), 352-360. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2013.10.060

  42. Chonco, L., Landete-Castillejos, T., Serrano-Heras, G., Pérez Serrano, M., Pérez-Barbería, F. J., González-Armesto, C., ... & Segura, T. (2020). Anti-tumour activity of deer growing antlers and its potential applications in the treatment of malignant gliomas. Scientific Reports, 10(1), 22386. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-020-79779-w

  43. Li, L., Yang, F., Jia, R., Yan, P., & Ma, L. (2020). Velvet antler polypeptide prevents the disruption of hepatic tight junctions via inhibiting oxidative stress in cholestatic mice and liver cell lines. Food & Function, 11(10), 8859-8871. https://doi.org/10.1039/d0fo01899f

  44. Tang, Y., Fan, M., Choi, Y.-J., Yu, Y., Yao, G., Deng, Y., ... & Kim, E.-K. (2018). Sika deer (Cervus nippon) velvet antler extract attenuates prostate cancer in xenograft model. Bioscience Reports, 38(6), BSR20181215. https://doi.org/10.1080/09168451.2018.1537775

  45. Xin, J.-L., Zhang, Y., Li, Y., Zhang, L.-Z., & Lin, Y., Zheng, L.-W. (2017). Protective effects of Cervus nippon Temminck velvet antler polypeptides against MPP+‑induced cytotoxicity in SH‑SY5Y neuroblastoma cells. Molecular Medicine Reports, 16(5), 6247-6256. https://doi.org/10.3892/mmr.2017.7303

  46. Tansathien, K., Chareanputtakhun, P., Ngawhirunpat, T., Opanasopit, P., & Rangsimawong, W. (2021). Hair growth promoting effect of bioactive extract from deer antler velvet-loaded niosomes and microspicules serum. International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 597, 120352. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijpharm.2021.120352

  47. Tansathien, K., Suriyaaumporn, P., Charoenputtakhun, P., Ngawhirunpat, T., Opanasopit, P., & Rangsimawong, W. (2019). Development of sponge microspicule cream as a transdermal delivery system for protein and growth factors from deer antler velvet extract. Biological and Pharmaceutical Bulletin, 42(8), 1309-1317. https://doi.org/10.1248/bpb.b19-00158

  48. Li, J.-j., Li, Z., Gu, L.-j., Wang, Y.-b., Lee, M.-r., & Sung, C.-k. (2014). Aqueous extract of red deer antler promotes hair growth by regulating the hair cycle and cell proliferation in hair follicles. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2014, 878162. https://doi.org/10.1155/2014/878162

Industry and Other Resources

Additional Resources for Further Exploration: