Deer antler tea responsible for two botulism cases in LA County.

Deer antler tea responsible for two botulism cases in LA County. Deer antler is promoted on the internet as a component of “Chinese medicine” with properties that are “useful” for people suffering from arthritis, helpful for the prevention of osteoporosis, and with “collagens” that help promote joint health and repair connective tissues. Deer antler is also said to prevent bone marrow diseases, “nourish” the spleen and kidney, defend against cancer cells, treat anemia and sexual disorders.Deer antler, specifically local deer-antler tea, has been associated with one confirmed and one suspected case of potentially deadly botulism, according to Los Angeles County Public Health. The county’s public health officials also say people who’ve drunk the tea should immediately seek medical attention if they are experiencing symptoms of botulism. Botulism is a rare, but life-threatening illness caused by nerve toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium. Symptoms include blurred vision, double vision, drooping eyelids, slurred speech, difficulty swallowing and weakness. All are symptoms of muscle paralysis caused by the bacterial toxin. Without treatment, these symptoms may progress to cause paralysis of respiratory muscles, arms, legs and trunk. continue