What are the benefits of velvet antler?

Q: How does Velvet Antler help and is it true that it relieves joint stiffness, increases bone density, boosts energy levels, aids muscle recovery, balances cardiovascular activity, strengthens the immune system, increases libido activity and heightens general vitality. I have been informed of these positive effects. The reported pharmacological effects and evidence for bioactivity include the following: stimulating and tonic effects; androgenic/gonadotrophic effects; haemotopoietic effects; hypotensive and cardiovascular effects; anti-stress effects; growth-stimulating effects; retardation of aging; accelerated recovery from injury; anti-tumour effects and anti-cholesterol effects. Detailed Composition: Active ingredients [found in deer and elk velvet antler] include a variety of minerals, trace elements, protein, fatty acids, glycosaminoglycans, growth hormones and growth factors. Major Element Concentrations: Nitrogen: 8.4%, Ash: 34.0%, Lipids: 2.5%, Calcium: 12.1% (Average concentrations of whole product on a dry weight basis). Minerals/Trace Elements Calcium (Ca): 12.1% - provides structure for bones and teeth, and is essential for nerve impulse conduction, muscle contraction and blood clotting. Copper (Cu): 5.3 ppm - necessary for red blood cell development, bones, and nerves. Iron (Fe): 319 ppm - essential for blood cells transporting oxygen throughout the body. Manganese (Mn): 3.4ppm - needed for development of bones and connective tissue, and for normal functioning of the nervous system. Magnesium (Mg): 0.25% - needed in metabolic reactions and storing and releasing energy in cells. Phosphorus(P): 5.8% - provides structure for bones and teeth, and is a component of nearly all metabolic reactions. Potassium (K): 0.42% - needed for nerve and muscle function. Selenium (Se): 0.18ppm - a powerful antioxidant. Sulphur (S): 0.85% - is a component of various amino acids and insulin. Zinc (Zn): 69ppm - part of the enzymes involved in digestion and respiration, and is necessary for normal wound healing and skin health. Proteins (including all essential amino acids): are the structural materials in cells, and aid in growth and repair of tissues. Collagen: a major structural component of bones, tendons, ligaments, and cartilage. Lipids (all essential fatty acids including omega 3 and 6): build cell parts and boost energy for cellular activities.

A:Velvet antler is one of a large number of naturally-occurring substances that are believed to improve health. But the proof is in rigorous scientific studies in humans. There is no sound scientific evidence on whether or not velvet antler has clinically important effects in humans,though some of the kinds of activities you describe may be found in laboratory studies. If it has good effects in you, there is apparently no harm in taking it - unless, of course, it is in place of a drug that is known to be effective.