The Spirits Infusion: Crafting Traditional Deer Antler Velvet Tonic Wine ("Panty")
by Jason J. Duke - Owner/Artisan
Fresh Content: December 6, 2025 22:01
The "Panty" Protocol: Lipid Solvation
While soups and teas excel at extracting minerals, they fail to capture the most potent component of Deer Antler Velvet: the Lipid-Waxy Matrix found in the tips. This matrix contains the growth factors, prostaglandins, and unique fatty acids responsible for the velvet's most profound regenerative effects. To unlock this "Wax," we must use Lipid Solvation—the use of alcohol as a carrier solvent to dissolve and preserve the essence that water leaves behind.
The Russian "Panty" Tradition
In the rugged expanse of Siberia, where the winters are long and the demands on the body are extreme, indigenous herders and later, Soviet researchers, utilized a preparation known colloquially as "Panty." This term, referring to the velvet antler itself, became synonymous with the high-potency alcoholic extracts used to generate internal heat and sustain work capacity in sub-zero temperatures.
They understood intuitively what modern chemistry confirms: Like dissolves Like. The most vitalizing components of the velvet—the hormones and lipid-soluble growth factors—are hydrophobic (water-fearing). To extract them, one requires a solvent that shares their affinity. High-proof spirits act as this key, dissolving the waxy matrix and holding it in stable suspension.
The Alchemist's Recipe: Creating the Infusion
Creating your own tonic wine is a practice of patience and observation. Unlike the rapid boil of a soup, the infusion is a slow, cold extraction that preserves delicate compounds from heat degradation.
The Materials
- The Vessel: A clean glass jar with a tight-sealing lid (Mason jar or similar).
- The Menstruum (Solvent): 1 Liter of high-quality Vodka or clear spirit (Minimum 40% Alcohol / 80 Proof).
- The Essence: 18–36 grams of Dried Deer Antler Velvet Slices (Use the "Wax Piece" or tips for maximum potency).
The Method
- Combine: Place the antler slices into the glass jar and pour the spirits over them. Ensure the slices are fully submerged.
- Seal & Store: Seal the jar tightly. Place it in a cool, dark place (a cabinet or pantry). Light can degrade the bioactive compounds.
- The Agitation: This is the active component. Shake the jar vigorously once a day. This mechanical action helps the solvent penetrate the dense tissue of the slice.
- The Transformation: Allow the infusion to macerate for a minimum of 30 days. Over time, you will witness the clear liquid transform into a rich, golden-amber hue—visual proof of the lipid extraction.
The Ledger: Tea vs. Spirits
Neither method is "wrong," but they serve different biological purposes. Understanding the solvent profile allows you to tailor the preparation to your specific needs.
| Feature | The Decoction (Tea/Soup) | The Infusion (Spirits/Tincture) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Solvent | Water + Heat | Alcohol + Time |
| Target Compounds | Minerals, Gelatin, Collagen | Growth Factors, Lipids, Peptides |
| Energetic Quality | Nourishing, Yin-Building | Invigorating, Yang-Building |
| Primary Benefit | Joint Structure & Bone Density | Circulation, Vitality, Libido |
Infusion FAQ
How do I take the infusion?
This is a potent tonic, not a beverage for intoxication. The traditional serving size is small—typically 1 ounce (a shot glass) taken 1–3 times daily, often before meals to stimulate "digestive fire."
Can I reuse the slices?
Yes. After the liquid is consumed, the slices still contain valuable mineral content. You can add them to a soup or broth to extract the remaining water-soluble nutrients, ensuring zero waste of the biological material.