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The Arctic’s main provider: Why indigenous peoples revere the reindeer
The Arctic’s main provider: Why indigenous peoples revere the reindeer
Arctic.ru: Discover how Russia implements its development goals in the Arctic and the Far East
2026-10-01T09:00
2026-10-01T09:00
2026-10-01T12:20
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The reindeer is a defining symbol of the Arctic. Since ancient times, these animals have provided the peoples of the North with food, clothing, footwear, and even shelter.Today, the range of reindeer products has expanded further: antlers can serve not only as home décor but also as a base for medicines and cosmetics.Read more about the many uses of reindeer antlers, as well as the benefits of reindeer meat, fat, and even hooves, in this article from the Development of the Arctic and the Far East portal.The reindeer holds a special place in the lives of the North’s indigenous peoples. In the harsh conditions of the Arctic, this animal is far more than just a mode of transport. Since ancient times, indigenous communities have used reindeer hides to insulate their dwellings and to craft clothing and footwear.The reindeer is also a primary food source in the Arctic. Reindeer meat is an all-natural product packed with the essential micronutrients needed for life in the tundra. It is high in protein, containing 23 grams per 100 grams of meat.Reindeer fat is equally beneficial, containing iron, zinc, calcium, and other minerals. It is also rich in vitamins A, D, E, and the B-complex group; these strengthen the body and can even help prevent stunted growth and rickets.Northern residents consume not only the meat and fat but also kholodets (meat jelly) made from the hooves. Reindeer hooves contain collagen and other valuable substances that aid in the repair of ligaments and tendons.That leaves only the antlers – which offer practical benefits as well. For instance, antlers are used to craft harness parts, tips for the khorey (a herder’s driving pole), beaters for clearing snow from dwellings, and knife handles.Nowadays, reindeer antlers are increasingly found in interior décor and souvenir products. Antler-based jewelry such as earrings, brooches, and pendants has become particularly popular.They also serve as a healthy treat for dogs. Their porous structure makes them safe even for the smallest breeds, while also providing a source of calcium, phosphorus, and other beneficial minerals for a pet.Scientists are gradually expanding the range of applications for reindeer antlers, including in cosmetology and pharmaceuticals.In addition to beneficial minerals, the antlers contain B-group vitamins, as well as vitamins D and E. This rich composition allows scientists to produce dietary supplements from the ossified antlers that help prevent colds, regulate metabolism, and accelerate the healing of wounds and burns.Panty – young antlers – are used to produce general-strengthening and tonic remedies that boost immunity and enhance physical performance.In cosmetology, extracts and powders derived from the antlers are used to create various skincare products that combat wrinkles and inflammation, as well as strengthen hair and nails.However, reindeer also hold sacred significance for indigenous peoples; their image features prominently in the myths of the Nenets, Sami, Chukchi, and Evenk peoples. Northern peoples regarded the stars in the night sky as celestial reindeer; moreover, according to belief, local shamans would transform into this animal to travel between worlds.
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The reindeer is a defining symbol of the Arctic. Since ancient times, these animals have provided the peoples of the North with food, clothing, footwear, and even shelter.
Today, the range of reindeer products has expanded further: antlers can serve not only as home décor but also as a base for medicines and cosmetics.
Read more about the many uses of reindeer antlers, as well as the benefits of reindeer meat, fat, and even hooves, in this article from the Development of the Arctic and the Far East portal.
The reindeer holds a special place in the lives of the North’s indigenous peoples. In the harsh conditions of the Arctic, this animal is far more than just a mode of transport. Since ancient times, indigenous communities have used reindeer hides to insulate their dwellings and to craft clothing and footwear.
The reindeer is also a primary food source in the Arctic. Reindeer meat is an all-natural product packed with the essential micronutrients needed for life in the tundra. It is high in protein, containing 23 grams per 100 grams of meat.
Reindeer fat is equally beneficial, containing iron, zinc, calcium, and other minerals. It is also rich in vitamins A, D, E, and the B-complex group; these strengthen the body and can even help prevent stunted growth and rickets.
Northern residents consume not only the meat and fat but also kholodets (meat jelly) made from the hooves. Reindeer hooves contain collagen and other valuable substances that aid in the repair of ligaments and tendons.
That leaves only the antlers – which offer practical benefits as well. For instance, antlers are used to craft harness parts, tips for the khorey (a herder’s driving pole), beaters for clearing snow from dwellings, and knife handles.
Nowadays, reindeer antlers are increasingly found in interior décor and souvenir products. Antler-based jewelry such as earrings, brooches, and pendants has become particularly popular.
They also serve as a healthy treat for dogs. Their porous structure makes them safe even for the smallest breeds, while also providing a source of calcium, phosphorus, and other beneficial minerals for a pet.
Scientists are gradually expanding the range of applications for reindeer antlers, including in cosmetology and pharmaceuticals.
In addition to beneficial minerals, the antlers contain B-group vitamins, as well as vitamins D and E. This rich composition allows scientists to produce dietary supplements from the ossified antlers that help prevent colds, regulate metabolism, and accelerate the healing of wounds and burns.
Panty – young antlers – are used to produce general-strengthening and tonic remedies that boost immunity and enhance physical performance.
In cosmetology, extracts and powders derived from the antlers are used to create various skincare products that combat wrinkles and inflammation, as well as strengthen hair and nails.
However, reindeer also hold sacred significance for indigenous peoples; their image features prominently in the myths of the Nenets, Sami, Chukchi, and Evenk peoples. Northern peoples regarded the stars in the night sky as celestial reindeer; moreover, according to belief, local shamans would transform into this animal to travel between worlds.
