Placenta Encapsulation and Other Holistic Uses for Placenta
A brief history of Placenta Use
In the realm of the womb, the placenta nourishes supreme as a haven of life and growth. This organ weaves together the mother's womb and the baby, nurturing the seed of life until it blooms into a wondrous being.
As the baby triumphantly emerges into the world, the placenta remains, offering sustenance to the mother.
In the ancient traditions of Traditional Chinese Medicine, this afterbirth us considered a warming herb, imbued with sacred properties of healing.
For thousands of years, the placenta has been a bearer of nourishment, not just for the baby, but also for the mother. Stories abound of its legendary properties, with tales of its hormonal blessings and rich iron content. In many cultures, it is part of a sacred ritual, revered as a source of vitality and strength.
While the scientific community has yet to fully explore the depth of the placenta's nourishing powers, stories of its wonders continue to be passed down from generation to generation. Its mystical properties continue to be celebrated, inspiring awe and wonder in all who learn about it.
Some mothers do not have the desire to consume the placenta but wish to see it after birth. If this is you, make sure to communicate this to your OB, Midwife, or Nurse, and/or Doula. Alternatively you may request a picture of the placenta as a keepsake.
You can also donate the placenta: The stem cells here can be beneficial for reconstructive procedures, healing of wounds and burns, ocular procedures, spinal surgeries, and other medical needs. Donation of placenta does not harm the baby in any way. If donation is your intention, make sure to talk to your healthcare provider in advance. Donations take place through an accredited tissue donation organization. paperwork will have to be completed in advance. Note that the parents can also donate other tissues such as the umbilical cord tissue, amniotic membrane and amniotic fluid. Here is a link to learn more at Donate Life America.
Some mothers choose to have their placenta encapsulated. Consuming your placenta can be very beneficial for you and your baby.
What are the TOP benefits that advocates report from consuming their placentas?
Increased energy and less fatigue
Increase in breastmilk production
Higher iron levels
Decreases postnatal bleeding, encourages healing and recovery
Decrease in ‘baby blues’, postpartum depression, and postpartum anxiety
Lower risk of postpartum hemorrhage
Hormonal regulation
Can provide natural post-birth pain relief
Increased energy and libido
Improved quality sleep
Increase in a stress-reducing hormone, CRH (Corticotrophin Releasing Hormone)
Increased production of oxytocin (the ‘love hormone’) which can promote bonding with your baby
Natalie offers this service and uses the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) method. First she washes the placenta to remove any blood clots. Then she steams the placenta with ginger and lemon. Then she cuts the placenta into small pieces for drying in a dehydrator at 160 overnight for 10 up to 12 hours depending on the size of the placenta. The second day, she takes the dehydrated planeta pieces and grinds them into a fine powder and then encapsulates them into vegetarian capsules. This produces anywhere from 80-150 capsules depending on the size of the placenta. Capsules are contained in a jar and consumed daily.
Natalie’s encapsulation process is different from others. She comes to your home to encapsulate and is available for any Q&A and support the parents might have. First the parents pick up placenta with styrofoam carrying case provided by Natalie. Parents take the placenta home where Natalie will join. Natalie sanitizes and sets up in your kitchen. She needs a sink and the counter space next to the sink. All equipment will be provided by Natalie. The entire process will occur over the course of two days. Natalie is at the home 2 hours on the first day and 2 hours on the second day totaling a 24 hour process to encapsulate.
Other ways to use placenta:
Tinctures:
Salves:
Placenta Art:
Placenta Chocolates:
Natalie received her Postpartum Placenta Encapsulation Specialist training through ProDoula. We maintain a sanitized workspace according to the requirements of APPA and Bloodborne Pathogens Training.