Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Antler, particularly deer antler velvet, has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for addressing "debility"—a general term that encompasses weakness, fatigue, and reduced vitality. In TCM, deer antler velvet is believed to tonify the kidney, strengthen the yang, and support overall vitality and recovery after illness. Traditional texts and materia medica reference its use to treat conditions marked by physical weakness, aging, or convalescence. However, modern scientific validation for its effectiveness in treating debility is limited and largely based on animal studies or preliminary clinical trials. Published research has examined potential effects on strength, endurance, and immune function, but results are inconclusive or not robust enough for definitive claims. Most human studies are small, of short duration, or lack rigorous controls. Therefore, while antler is widely used for debility in traditional contexts, current scientific evidence does not strongly support its efficacy for this purpose. The traditional use rating is moderate because of centuries of continuous use, but scientific evidence remains weak.

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