Evidence supporting the use of: Deer
For the health condition: Debility
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Deer-derived products, particularly deer antler (often referred to as "deer velvet"), have been used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and other East Asian medical systems for centuries to treat a variety of conditions associated with debility, such as fatigue, weakness, and aging-related decline. In TCM, deer velvet is considered a tonic that can replenish vital energy (qi), strengthen yang, and nourish blood and essence. Texts such as the "Shennong Bencao Jing" and subsequent materia medica works describe its use in enhancing vitality, improving physical strength, and aiding recovery from chronic illness or general weakness.
Scientific validation of these traditional claims remains limited and inconclusive. Some modern studies have explored the bioactive compounds in deer antler, such as growth factors, amino acids, and minerals, and have suggested possible effects on immune modulation and physical performance in animal studies. However, robust clinical trials in humans are lacking, and systematic reviews typically conclude that existing studies are of low quality or have methodological flaws. Therefore, while the use of deer products for debility is well-supported by tradition, strong scientific evidence is lacking, and its efficacy is not established by modern standards.
Other ingredients used for Debility
adrenal cortexalfalfa
amino acids
apricot
bilberry
black currant
bovine
bovine spleen
carrot
chlorella
turmeric
elderberry
garlic bulb
ginger
grape
green tea
l-glutamine
milk
ornithine alpha-ketoglutarate
pomegranate
protein
spirulina
vitamin C
vitamin D
zinc
xanthium (cockleburs)
siler root
hyacinth bean
algae
Aralia
Antler
Ambergris
Angelica
acacia
Achyranthes
Anamu
Aletris
Algal protein
Ant
Abalone
Animal protein
Bishop's Weed
Beef Protein
Beef
Beef liver
Bovine Protein
Bael
Borassus aethiopum
Codonopsis
Cynomorium
Chlorophytum
Chicken
Deer Root
Deer Velvet
Elk antler
Flat-stem milk-vetch
glucose