For a long time now, many communities and cultures have been using Elk Velvet Antler (EVA) to supplement their dietary needs and assist with their hormonal balance. Traditional application of EVA is from the Far East and China at the heart of their ancient herbal routine. Historically, EVA was used to increase energy levels, vitality, and stamina. According to ancient silk scrolls that recorded the initial discovery of velvet antler was believed to be very powerful since it came from a rapidly growing antler that rejuvenated every year. The ancient discoverers believed that antlers were full of nutrients, living tissues, and growth factors during their regeneration stage. The old medicine discoverers were right. The velvet worked perfectly well. (Complete History of Deer Antler Velvet & Chinese Medicine by Pure Velvet July 18, 2018)
Chinese Pharmacology of the 16th century records the use of Velvet Antler under Pen Ts’oa Kang Mu and various antler preparation is presented in the form of pills, powder, ointments, tinctures and extracts. EVA is being used as an ingredient for various bodybuilding and anti-aging supplements. The question that is raised most often is why does EVA help build muscle mass?
Research into the active ingredients identify amino acids, IGF and EGF. All three of these ingredients support the development of muscle. The calcium and magnesium identified in the molecule also assist in the health and mobility of muscle. Professional athletes in the NBA, NFL and golf circuit have used EVA supplementation. On January 30, 2013, Vijay Singh professional PGA Tour golfer was caught unawares and openly admitted to the personal use of deer antler spray which contained a banned substance at the time. A week later the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) lifted the ban on deer antler spray, but with urgency, “Deer Antler Velvet Spray may contain IGF-1 and WADA recommends therefore that athletes be extremely vigilant with this supplement because it could lead to a positive test.”http:/wikepedia.org/velvetantler. The recognition by WADA that the properties of EVA are strong enough to potentially lead to a positive test of IGF in the system supports the claims that the body recognizes the benefits of the molecule and processes the absorption. Former linebacker for the Baltimore Ravens, Ray Lewis, was reported to have used antler velvet in 2013 to help in the recovery of triceps tendon that was torn. Ray Lewis’ final season and Baltimore’s run through the AFC to the Super Bowl has been described as destiny or a fateful miracle, but it appears as though Lewis’ recovery from a torn triceps was aided by the use of a banned substance.www.boston/cbs/2013 Once again, that substance was velvet antler, administered through a spray. The product is not banned because it is harmful or damaging, but because using IGF as an aide in muscle development, is not allowed. Professional athletes should be aware that the use of EVA prior to a competition could lead to a positive test for IGF.
CanEVA Health Corp has both a PEOPLE and PET product. Photo courtesy of S. Bright who uses PEOPLE for himself and PET for his golden retrievers.