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Preparation Methods

What is Placenta Encapsulation?

Placenta encapsulation is the process of preparing the mother’s placenta after the birth of her baby(ies) by dehydrating and then ground and placed into capsules for the mother to ingest as she sees fit. The ingestion of the placenta is known as “placentophagy.” 

There are two methods of preparation: Traditional Chinese Method (TCM) and Raw. Please see below for the detailed descriptions of each. 

Studies show that the placenta is extremely nutrient rich, high in iron, protein, vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B6 and of course, mother’s own natural hormones, making it perfectly suited for each individual.* Experts agree that ingesting the placenta slowly reintroduces the hormones into the mother’s system and may ease hormonal fluctuations and the side-effects that come with them.*

Your baby's placenta will be treated with honor and respect during the preparation process. We provide the highest standards of safety and service. We conform to guidelines for food preparation and safety protocols.


Traditional Chinese Method (TCM) vs. Raw Method

There are two primary methods of preparation for encapsulating placenta: the Traditional Chinese Method (TCM) method and the Raw Method. Each method is appropriate for consumption by all mothers. 

TCM: 
TCM is the oldest-known and most commonly-used recipe for postpartum placenta preparation. The hallmark of this method is that the placenta is steamed during processing. In TCM theory, the process of labor and birth leaves a lot of open, empty space, which is considered very yin, or cold. Therefore, one major way we can promote healing during the postpartum period is to add yang energy, or heat. We incorporate steam, lemon, ginger and hot pepper into the preparation. These are included in the steaming water only, and are not incorporated into the capsules. The final result is warming, toning, and nourishing for the postpartum period. 

Raw: 
Unlike the Traditional Chinese Method preparation of the placenta, We do not steam the placenta during the raw encapsulation process. We forgo the steaming to save the vital nutrients and hormones that may be depleted once the placenta has heated.* Moms who have experienced this method report a significant boost of energy. The temperature at which it is dehydrated is at 160 degrees Fahrenheit. 
**If there is any reason why you would require it drying at a lower temperature, please note that in your contract.

In our experience, placentas prepared using the Raw method yield more capsules. 

One method is not better than the other. We offer several options for encapsulation and you should choose the method that best suits your needs and preferences. Moms suffering from previous anxiety may want to consider the TCM method for its gentler properties.

Raw Cube Preparation

Consuming the placenta in its raw state is most beneficial during the immediate postpartum period for internal wound healing, lessening postnatal bleeding and mood balancing.*

When choosing a raw preparation for smoothies, we will prepare and freeze cubes for immediate or future use. These cubes can then be put into fruit smoothies and consumed.



Placenta Prints

Placenta prints are unique works of art that display the size, shape and general appearance of your placenta and show why the placenta is often called "The Tree of Life." 

When creating placenta prints, in order to prepare the placenta for consumption, no paints or dyes are used. Prints are done solely with the blood naturally remaining after delivery. The prints are made before the placenta is washed and prepared. They are printed with the natural placenta blood on acid-free artists paper. Some families frame them and display their prints as art or others choose to save them as personal keepsakes.


Placenta Tincture

This is a mother tincture, which is processed from a raw piece of placenta and takes about 6 weeks to complete. If stored properly, this can last indefinitely. 

This is a great item to have in your natural remedy stash. While the pills work best in the immediate weeks following the birth of your baby, this works great for years to come for you and child. (Times of transition, menopause, hormonal imbalance, and even the common cold for your child.) 

**Please note: When ordering tinctures, the curing process takes approximately 6 weeks. The finished product will be dropped off or mailed upon completion.


Placenta Balm

The placenta has long been known to have healing qualities for the skin. Many high-end anti-aging lotions and creams contain "sheep placenta extract" as their special ingredient. We have created a natural and healing balm using your own placenta, custom made for your personal use. 

Placenta balm can be used for 
~ Cesarean and surgical scars 
~ Perineal tears 
~ Diaper rash 
~ For general healing and skin-care

**Please note: As with tinctures, when ordering balm, the curing process takes approximately 6 weeks. The finished product will be dropped off or mailed upon completion.




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*Beacock, Michelle "Does eating placenta offer postpartum health benefits?" British Journal of Midwifery July 2012,  Vol 20, No 7 pg 466
*Blank MS, Friesen HG. "Effects of placentophagy on serum prolactin and progesterone concentrations in rats after parturition or superovulation." Journal of Reproductive Fertility. 1980 Nov;60(2):273-8
*Enning, Patricia. Placenta :The Gift of Life. Mother Baby Press, 2007
*Kristal, Mark B "Placentophagia: A Biobehavioral Enigma" Neuroscience & Biohehavioral Reviews, Vol. 4, pp. 141--150. 

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