Kerala to seek Union government’s approval for using deer antlers in Ayurveda medicines

Kerala to seek Union government’s approval for using deer antlers in Ayurveda medicines The Kerala Government is seeking the Union Government’s permission to use antlers of spotted deer and sambar to make Ayurvedic medicines. It is believed that antlers have medicinal values and are mainly used for invigorating spleen, strengthening bones/muscles and boosting blood flow. The Wildlife

(Protection) Act, 1972, has included antler in the definition of wildlife trophy that may be whole or any part of any captive animal or wild animal.

Section 39 of the Act prohibits person from acquiring or keeping trophies in his possession without the previous permission of Chief Wildlife Warden or the authorised officer.

Antlers are the extensions of the deer’s skull.