Exploring the History of Deer Velvet in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Introduction Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has a rich history dating back thousands of years and has a myriad of natural substances playing crucial roles in its practices. One such substance that has stood the test of time is deer velvet, a unique and revered ingredient in TCM. This article delves into the fascinating history and diverse applications of deer velvet in traditional Chinese medicine. Deer Velvet in Traditional Chinese Medicine Deer velvet, also known as Lu Rong or “deer antler velvet,” has been an integral part of Chinese medicine for over two millennia. Its usage can be traced back to ancient texts, including the Huangdi Neijing (Yellow Emperor’s Inner Canon), a foundational work of TCM. In these ancient writings, deer velvet is celebrated for its ability to tonify the kidney, yang, and essence – key concepts in traditional Chinese medical philosophy. According to historical records, the use of deer velvet in TCM dates back to the Han Dynasty (206