How is Deer Antler Velvet Harvested?

Deer antler velvet has been used in naturopathic medicine for thousands of years because of all of the unique health benefits that it offers, especially for those interested in improving their endurance, strength, and ability to heal. 

Interestingly enough, deer antler velvet has a few other purposes that many people don't know about, such as helping to increase testosterone, promoting a powerful immune system, and helping burn fat naturally.

Sometimes, people who are interested in buying this product have some questions about the way that deer antler velvet is harvested. It helps to read the following information about what deer antler velvet is and how it is removed. 

Why Do Deer Have Velvet on Their Antlers?

It’s a given that deer have long antlers varying in size and shape. What some might not realize, however, is that they are replaced each year as part of a natural shedding process. This ensures their antlers are always strong enough for defending themselves. 

After the old antlers break off, a new set quickly grows as soon as the spring season begins. The new antlers look a little different until they are fully formed. Instead of their usual hard, ivory appearance, they are soft and covered in fine hair.

How Is Velvet Antler Harvested?

Harvesting the fur on deer antlers involves a safe and simple process that causes very little stress to the animals. First, they are sedated so that they can be handled more easily. Then, an injection of anesthesia is given to them to ensure that they don't experience any pain or discomfort. 

Once the anesthesia has had time to take effect, an experienced veterinarian surgically removes the majority of the antlers that have grown. This process is repeated each spring until the deer have reached an age where their antlers don't grow as quickly anymore.

What Happens to the Deer Antler Velvet That is Harvested?

Because the deer antlers that are harvested are composed of soft cartilage and fine hair, they have to be preserved using a special process. This is usually done by separating the antlers into smaller sections that are then dried. The deer antler velvet is stored for short periods until ready to be used in the manufacturing process.

The Bottom Line

As you can see, harvesting deer antler velvet is a safe and simple process that doesn't cause the deer any suffering. Their antlers are still able to regrow afterward because it doesn't have a permanent impact on the natural regeneration cycle that occurs each spring. 

At Nutronics, all of our deer antler velvet products are harvested in an ethical and humane manner.

Sources: https://www.nutronicslabs.com/pages/research-references/