Last verified: today
Deer Antler Velvet Extract
Also known as: DAV, velvet antler, Cervus elaphus, antler velvet, Lu Rong
Evidence under review. — Not yet rated
Traditional remedy with very limited clinical evidence. May have minor skin benefits; athletic performance claims are largely unsupported.
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What it does
Deer antler velvet is the soft, cartilaginous tissue harvested from growing deer antlers before they harden. It contains proteins, growth factors, and other bioactive compounds. One small clinical...
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Evidence quality
Evidence base hasn't been formally rated yet. See research below.
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Clinical dose
No established dose
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Found in
What the Science Says
Deer antler velvet is the soft, cartilaginous tissue harvested from growing deer antlers before they harden. It contains proteins, growth factors, and other bioactive compounds. One small clinical trial found no significant boost to testosterone, IGF-1, aerobic capacity, or red blood cell production in men doing strength training, though one form (powder) showed some inconsistent strength gains. A separate study found a topical cream containing the extract modestly improved skin hydration, elasticity, and reduced melanin content over 14 days.
What It Doesn't Do
Won't boost testosterone — the one clinical trial found zero hormonal changes. Won't improve aerobic performance or VO2max. No proven muscle-building effect on its own. The IGF-1 hype is not backed by human data. Not a proven treatment for any disease.
Evidence-Based Benefits
Topical deer antler velvet cream improved skin hydration and elasticity in healthy adults after 14 days.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: No established dose; topical cream applied daily for 14 days
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Deer antler velvet powder showed inconsistent, minor improvements in knee extensor strength during a 10-week training program.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: No established dose
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Absorption & Bioavailability
Unknown for oral use. Topical delivery was studied using a sponge microspicule cream system to enhance skin penetration of large protein molecules — standard oral bioavailability of its active compounds is not established by the provided studies.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Widely marketed for testosterone and IGF-1 boosting, but the only clinical trial found no hormonal changes
- Banned by some sports organizations (e.g., NFL, NCAA) due to concerns about IGF-1 content — athletes should check their sport's rules
- Very few human clinical trials exist; most marketing claims are based on animal studies or traditional use
- Topical formulations using sponge microspicules caused skin irritation in lab testing — not all products are safe for sensitive skin
- Over 1,000 registered supplement products exist despite minimal clinical evidence — widespread commercial use does not equal proven efficacy
Products Containing Deer Antler Velvet Extract
See how Deer Antler Velvet Extract is used in these analyzed products:
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Deer Antler Velvet Extract do?
Traditional remedy with very limited clinical evidence. May have minor skin benefits; athletic performance claims are largely unsupported.
What is the effective dose of Deer Antler Velvet Extract?
No established dose
Is Deer Antler Velvet Extract safe?
Widely marketed for testosterone and IGF-1 boosting, but the only clinical trial found no hormonal changes
What doesn't Deer Antler Velvet Extract do?
Won't boost testosterone — the one clinical trial found zero hormonal changes.
Research Sources
- PubMed
- NIH DSLD
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-07-06