Differences Between Deer & Sheep Placenta Supplements

Placenta supplements have become popular in the beauty and anti-aging space, especially among consumers looking for improved skin vitality, energy, and cell renewal support. Two of the most widely used types are deer placenta and sheep placenta. While both share similar origins, there are clear differences in their bioactive compounds, traditional use, and intended benefits.

Here’s a straightforward comparison to help you understand which one may be more suitable for different needs.

1. Origin & Traditional Background

Sheep Placenta

Sheep placenta has been used in modern nutraceuticals for decades. New Zealand and Australia are the largest producers due to their strict farming standards and disease-free herds.

It is known for being milder, well-researched, and widely used in beauty formulations.

Deer Placenta

Deer placenta is rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), where deer products (including velvet antler and placenta) are considered tonics for vitality and longevity.

It is often positioned as more “potent” or “yang-enhancing”, aligning with TCM principles.

2. Bioactive Composition

Both types contain growth factors, peptides, amino acids, and cellular nutrients.

However, deer placenta naturally contains:

Higher density of IGF-1–like compounds (insulin-like growth factor activity)
More bioactive peptides linked to energy and tissue recovery
A comparatively richer profile of natural growth factors due to the physiology of deer reproduction

Sheep placenta tends to have:

Balanced levels of amino acids
Lower allergenic risk
A gentler profile suitable for long-term beauty maintenance

3. Energy, Vitality & TCM Perspective

From a holistic view, Deer Placenta (Yang-Tonifying) is often chosen by those who want support in:

fatigue
stamina
overall vitality
deeper rejuvenation

Sheep Placenta (Neutral) is typically chosen for:

skin radiance
hydration
youthful appearance
balanced wellness

Final Thoughts

Both deer and sheep placenta supplements offer unique anti-aging benefits. Sheep placenta is generally preferred for beauty-focused users looking for gentle, consistent results.

Deer placenta is suited for those wanting stronger rejuvenation, vitality enhancement, and premium anti-aging support.

Choosing between them depends on your goals, sensitivity level, and budget as deer placenta products are usually positioned as the more potent, premium option.

References

Schlievert PM. Placental extracts and their bioactive factors. J Reprod Immunol.
Koizumi M et al. Biological properties of placental extracts. Biomed Res.
Liu J et al. Deer-based traditional medicine and its biochemical components. J Ethnopharmacol.
Shin Y et al. Effects of placenta extract on skin regeneration. Int J Mol Sci.
Uddin SMN et al. Growth factors in placental tissues and their regenerative roles. Stem Cell Res Ther.
Leung KW & Wong AS. Traditional Chinese medicine and deer-derived ingredients. Phytochem Rev.
Zhang D et al. Peptides and bioactive molecules in mammalian placenta. Nutrients.