The Placenta

So many changes occur in the mother’s body throughout pregnancy to support & protect the growing of new life. One particular component that is often disregarded is the transient organ known as the placenta. For the nine months of the developing baby’s existence inside the womb, the baby is fully reliant on this organ. The primary function of the placenta is to supply the baby’s brain with oxygen & nutrients in order for the baby to survive within the womb. Many are unaware that “birth” is truly incomplete until the placenta is delivered, and it is in fact defined as the 3rd stage of labor. The placenta, and more specifically, the umbilical cord is the true physiologic connection between mother & baby. Whether a mother resonates with honoring this organ through brief thought, burial, consumption, or keepsake, the vitality of the placenta should be considered more than afterbirth waste.

Services Offered

1. Placenta Encapsulation

   Process: After receiving the fresh placenta, the entire placenta & umbilical cord are thoroughly cleaned. After cleaning, the membranes & umbilical cord will be removed. The placenta will then be steamed & dehydrated fro 8-12 hours, before it is blended into a powder. The powdered placenta is transferred into vegetarian capsules.

   Consumption: The encapsulated placenta is taken with water around a meal.

   Potential Benefits: Decrease in postpartum mood disorders, increased production of oxytocin, decrease in stress hormones, and supports milk supply.

   Resources: https://evidencebasedbirth.com/evidence-on-placenta-encapsulation/

2. Placenta Tincture

   Process: After the placenta is dehydrated, about one inch will be taken & added to a glass jar. The jar will be filled with gluten-free vodka & tightly sealed. The jar will be stored in a cabinet for 4-6 weeks. After the steeping period is complete, the liquid will be strained & placed into dropper bottles.

   Consumption: The placenta tincture is consumed by placing drops under your tongue or in water, juice, or tea as needed. The bottle can be kept for years in an enclosed space. Remember that this is a potent concentration & one drop is about equal to one capsule.

   Potential Benefits: Ease anxiety & distress, improve sleep disturbances.

3. Placenta Art Print

   Description: Prior to encapsulation or tincture preparation, the placenta & membranes can be pressed either with or with-out inks to create an art print.

*Only available for those in the Portland, OR area

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