Animal Extracts: A Comprehensive Look

1. Definition:

Animal extracts are concentrated preparations derived from animal parts, such as bones, horns, skin, and meat. They are often used as tonics or medicinal remedies.

2. Advantages:

• Convenience: Concentrated extracts are easy to store and use, often dissolving in water or alcohol.

• High Efficacy: Animal extracts have a high concentration of active ingredients, leading to enhanced absorption and effectiveness.

• Nutrient-Rich: They contain valuable nutrients beneficial to health.

3. Disadvantages:

• High Cost: Animal materials are typically expensive, leading to high product prices.

• Risk of Contamination: Animal ingredients are susceptible to contamination if not carefully processed.

• Side Effects: Some animal extracts may cause adverse reactions if misused.

4. Production Process:

4.1. Raw Material Processing:

• Impurity Removal: Removing tendons, fat, marrow attached to bones, fur, skin, etc.

• Odor Reduction:

• Bones are soaked in alcohol, ginger water, or vegetable broth, then stir-fried until golden brown.

• Skin is soaked in brine or vinegar.

• Drying: Raw materials are dried under sunlight or with drying equipment.

4.2. Extraction:

• Extraction Methods:

• Decoction: Simmering the materials in water for a long time (12-24 hours) to extract the active compounds.

• Maceration: Soaking the materials in water multiple times to maximize extraction.

• Number of Extractions: Usually 3-4 times.

4.3. Concentrating the Extract:

• Concentration Methods: Using vacuum evaporators or conventional evaporators.

• Checking Consistency: Testing the thickness by cutting two edges of the extract; it should not stick together.

4.4. Storage:

• Cutting into Pieces: Cut the extract into rectangular pieces (100g/piece) for easy storage.

• Wrapping in Wax Paper: Wrap each piece in wax paper to prevent mold growth.

• Cool and Dry Storage: Store animal extracts in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.

5. Usage:

• Water Infusion: Dissolve the extract in warm water and drink.

• Food Incorporation: Mix the extract into dishes like porridge, soups, etc.

• Alcohol Blending: Combine with alcohol to enhance the effects.

Important Notes:

• Choose animal extracts from reputable suppliers with food safety certifications.

• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions or consult a doctor.

• Do not administer animal extracts to young children, pregnant women, or breastfeeding mothers without medical advice.

• Store extracts in a dry, well-ventilated area, avoiding direct sunlight.

• Limit usage duration; avoid prolonged consumption.

6. Examples of Animal Extracts:

• Tiger Bone Extract: Made from tiger bones, used to strengthen kidneys, invigorate yang, and strengthen tendons and bones.

• Rhinoceros Horn Extract: Made from rhinoceros horns, used to clear heat and detoxify, and alleviate pain.

• Python Extract: Made from the entire body of a python, used to replenish blood and energy, and boost immunity.

• Deer Antler Extract: Made from deer antlers, used to strengthen kidneys, invigorate yang, and strengthen tendons and bones.

7. Comparing Animal Extracts and Herbal Extracts:

• Usage Ratio: Animal extracts are used in significantly lower proportions than herbal extracts.

• Origin: Animal extracts are derived from animals, while herbal extracts are derived from plants.

• Effects: Animal extracts often have stronger tonic and medicinal effects than herbal extracts.

8. Quality Inspection of Extracts:

• Checking Consistency: Cut two edges of the extract; it should not stick together.

• Assessing Aroma and Taste: Animal extracts have distinctive flavors and smells based on their ingredients.

• Checking Moisture Content: Animal extracts should be dry and not damp.

9. Safety Considerations for Animal Extract Use:

• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions or consult a doctor.

• Do not administer animal extracts to young children, pregnant women, or breastfeeding mothers without medical advice.

• Store extracts in a dry, well-ventilated area, avoiding direct sunlight.

• Limit usage duration; avoid prolonged consumption.

10. Food Safety:

• Animal ingredients must be carefully inspected for food safety.

• The production process must adhere to food safety standards.

11. Legal Considerations:

• Using wild animals to make extracts must comply with wildlife protection laws.

• The harvesting and use of wild animals must be authorized by competent authorities.

12. Alternatives:

• Utilize herbal extracts as substitutes for animal extracts.

• Consider plant-based nutritional supplements like reishi mushrooms, cordyceps, etc.

Note:

• This information is for general knowledge and does not substitute professional medical advice.

• Before using animal extracts, consult a doctor or healthcare professional.