Placenta Encapsulation - You Have Options
Placenta encapsulation is quickly growing in popularity with pregnant women. Many people have heard of placenta encapsulation, but are not quite sure what it is, how it works, or their options. Nurtured Foundation Doula Services has broken the process down to help educate those who may be interested in the potential benefits of placentophagy and placenta encapsulation.Let us begin with the basics:What is Placentophagy?Traditionally, placentophagy is the method by which a mother ingests her placenta after it has been processed into a powder and encapsulated, or as a tincture. It is believed to provide much needed nutrients and hormones to aid in her postpartum recovery.The practice of placenta encapsulation has been performed for centuries and practiced most often in Eastern (Chinese) medicine.Why Would One Consume the Placenta?A woman’s life after childbirth is an amazing and unique time period, full of changes and challenges. Encapsulation can provide an extra nutrient boost for mothers after childbirth, improving their overall post-birth experience as they adjust to life with a new baby.The Placenta is rich in many beneficial hormones, chemicals, iron and proteins, such as:
•PROLACTIN promotes lactation.•OXYTOCIN for pain relief and promotes baby-bonding•THYROID STIMULATING HORMONE boosts energy.•CORTISONE combats stress and unlocks energy stores.•INTERFERON stimulates the immune system to help prevent infection.•HEMOGLOBIN Replenishes iron deficiency and anemia, a common postpartum condition. I don't like swallowing pills or capsules. Are there any other options?When thinking about consumption of the placenta, many people assume it is always by encapsulation. That’s understandable. Encapsulation is the most commonly used method. However, you do have other options! Nurtured Foundation Doula Services also provides placenta salve, placenta tinctures and raw frozen placenta cubes.Placenta SalvePlacenta salve is made by using your superfine placenta powder and infusing it into a high quality salve base. This method can also be done with your choice of essential oils. We only use a luxurious organic base as the carrier because it is non-sensitizing, has a pleasing aroma, is food based, and able to penetrate deep under the surface of the skin. Placenta salves have many uses: Cesarean scars, perineal tears (wait until stitches dissolve), diaper rash, and as a general healing and skin-care salve.Placenta TinctureA concentrated placenta tincture is created by placing a portion of the prepared placenta in a high-grade alcohol, and allowing it to steep for at least six weeks prior to use. This method allows you to prolong the benefits of your placenta hormones. The tincture can be used in any time of trauma, transition, emotional distress or hormone changes to ease your symptoms. It is shelf stable and if stored correctly in a cool, dark place, should last indefinitely.Placenta CubesPlacenta cubes are made by pureeing the placenta and freezing in cube trays. This is considered a raw method. The cubes can be added to smoothies. We have found that adding to a veggie/fruit smoothie is the preferred way to consume.Placenta Smoothie Recipe:
2 cups pf frozen strawberries1 bananaHandful of ice cubes2 cups of V8 Splash1 T of Honey1-2 frozen placenta cubesOur placenta encapulator, Ashley Rainey, is PBi trained as a Placenta Encapsulation Specialist and has taken the OSHAcademy Bloodborne Pathogens Course. Ashley also offers birth doula, postpartum doula services, as well as childbirth education classes. If you have additional questions or if you would like to schedule placenta encapsulation or doula services, please contact us here.Legal stuff:Placenta consumption in any form has not been evaluated or endorsed by the FDA. The information dispensed here is not meant to substitute for medical advice. Always consult with a trusted health professional before using any supplements.