Deer antler velvet has been a component of traditional medicine for over 2,000 years, with its earliest documented use found on a silk scroll from 168 BC in China. It has been valued for promoting general well-being. This article explores deer antler velvet, its composition, and its connection to cancer.
What is Deer Antler Velvet?
Deer antler velvet refers to the soft, cartilaginous tissue that covers the growing antlers of male deer, elk, moose, or caribou. This tissue has a velvety appearance. Antlers grow rapidly before they solidify into bone.
Harvesting occurs before the antlers fully calcify, with procedures supervised by veterinarians in some regions like New Zealand. The velvet is then processed and can be found in various forms such as powders, capsules, and extracts. Deer antler velvet contains proteins, amino acids, minerals like calcium, zinc, and magnesium, collagen, chondroitin, glucosamine, and growth factors such as Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1).
Investigating Deer Antler Velvet’s Impact on Cancer
Proponents suggest deer antler velvet offers benefits like immune system modulation, anti-inflammatory properties, and enhanced vitality, linking them to cancer prevention or treatment. These claims stem from its traditional uses and composition.
However, scientific evidence from human clinical trials supporting these anti-cancer claims is absent or inconclusive. Most research on deer antler velvet’s effects, including potential anti-tumor activity, has been conducted in preliminary settings, such as test-tube studies or animal models. These studies do not directly translate to human outcomes and require further investigation.
A concern regarding deer antler velvet and cancer relates to its content of Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1). IGF-1 is a hormone that can stimulate cell growth and proliferation. Elevated IGF-1 levels have been associated with an increased risk of certain common cancers, including prostate and premenopausal breast cancers. While deer antler velvet contains IGF-1, it is unclear if oral consumption of supplements leads to increased IGF-1 levels in the human circulatory system that could stimulate cancer cell growth. Nevertheless, the theoretical risk that IGF-1 might promote the growth of existing cancer cells, particularly hormone-sensitive ones, warrants caution.
Safety Considerations and Regulatory Oversight
Deer antler velvet is considered possibly safe for short-term use, but there is limited reliable information on potential side effects. Some individuals susceptible to allergies may experience adverse reactions. Due to a lack of comprehensive safety studies, caution is advised.
For individuals with cancer or those undergoing cancer treatment, risks are notable. Deer antler velvet contains hormones like estrone and estradiol, and IGF-1. These could potentially interact with hormone-sensitive cancers such as breast, uterine, or ovarian cancers, or conditions like endometriosis and uterine fibroids. There is also a theoretical concern that it could interfere with chemotherapy or radiation treatments, or stimulate the growth of existing tumors. Therefore, anyone with a cancer diagnosis or undergoing treatment should consult with their oncologist before considering deer antler velvet supplements.
Deer antler velvet products are marketed as dietary supplements in the United States. This means they are not subject to rigorous approval process as prescription drugs by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA does not approve dietary supplements for treating, preventing, or curing any disease, including cancer. This lack of stringent regulation can result in significant variability in product quality, purity, and the actual concentration of listed ingredients, making it difficult for consumers to assess their safety or effectiveness. Consumers are advised to research products, select reputable brands, and prioritize discussions with healthcare professionals, especially if they have underlying medical conditions.