Placenta Encapsulation
The placenta is an extraordinary organ that the body creates. Its purpose is to assist in the growth and sustainance of life in the womb and it provides bioavailable nutrients and hormones that can be consumed after birth!
Placenta consumption is a common part of postpartum healing in many cultures. Current research shows that benefits include: mood stabilisation, increased milk supply, and decreased post-birth healing time.
We will arrange drop off or collection of your placenta from your home or birthing facility and tend to it with the method of your choice. When the process is complete (2-3 days), we will arrange pick up or delivery of your capsules/tincture/smoothie to you, along with a cord keepsake and placenta print.
The following are just a few of the hormones known to be present in the placenta, post-birth:
- Prolactin and Human Placental Lactogen ~ stimulates milk production
- Progesterone ~ prepares mammories for lactation
- Oestrogen ~ increases uterine strength and prepares mammories for lactation
- Cortisone ~ relieves inflammation, pain, and swelling
- Oxytocin ~ bonding, feel good, contracts uterus, heals wounds
- Hemoglobin ~ transports oxygen throughout the body, increases iron stores
- Phosphorus ~ aids digestion, hormone balance, cell repair, and nutrient utilisation
- Interferon ~ enhances immunity and inhibits virus reproduction
- Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone ~ relieves stress, supports adrenals, fights depression
- Placental Growth Hormone ~ promotes break down of stored fats, sending them to baby
- Thyroid Stimulating Hormone ~ regulates metabolism
- Urokinase Inhibiting Factor & Factor XIII ~ lessens bleeding, and promotes faster healing
The Raw Method
It is believed that heat can destroy the hormones and nutrients available in the placenta, the raw method involves gently cleaning and slicing the placenta before placing it in the dehydrator at a low heat. The placenta is processed with as little disturbance as possible to keep all of the rich hormones and nutrients available for you to ingest. This process of raw dehydration can take up to 24 hours to be completely dry and ready for encapsulation. When the process is complete the placenta will be ground and pressed into capsules.
Capsules processed using this method are usually good for about a year, if stored correctly, however most women use their capsules in that time. It is believed that this method gives the mother a burst of energy and provides hormone stabilization.
Traditional Chinese Method (TCM)
This style of placenta preparation is inspired by traditional Chinese medicine. It involves gently cleaning and heating the placenta with ginger and lemon before dehydrating and pulsing down for capsules. Using this preparation method is thought to bring out the placentas toning and healing properties. The TCM theory believes that birth leaves the mother very yin or cold and that preparing the placenta using heat adds yang. The placenta is not cooked so it retains all of its nutrients. It is believed that the TCM method can provide a slow and steady release of energy to help the mother stabilize after birth. This method usually yields less capsules as the placenta shrinks during the steaming process.
*Please note that I am not a TCM practitioner, this method is inspired by TCM methods.