Placenta encapsulation is a process where the placenta is transformed into capsules that can be
taken during the postpartum chapter. This process is centuries old and has become more popular
over the past few decades. The process includes cleaning, steaming, dehydrating, grinding and
encapsulating the placenta into ingestible capsules. Using this gentle TCM (Traditional Chinese
Medicine) method, the capsules hold the placenta powder and nothing else (no herbs or oils).
The placenta is full of nutrients & hormones and has many reported benefits during the postpartum period.
Benefits
Decrease the risk of postpartum depression or "baby blues"
Replenish depleted iron levels from birth
Stabilizes hormones
Increase milk production and supply
Replenishes energy and B vitamins​​
Recent Studies
While there are many anecdotal testimonies to the benefits of placenta encapsulation, it's helpful to keep an eye on what the research says. In 2016, two studies showed us that placenta capsules contain ~1/4 the daily recommendation for iron with other minerals detected as well in trace levels. The studies also showed that there are 15 hormones present in placenta capsules, with progesterone and estradiol present in levels that could lead to physiological effects. A very small study in 2017 looked at iron and hemoglobin levels, with a bigger study linked to this to be released soon. We are waiting for a larger, randomized trial to finish to learn about the potential effects on postpartum depression.
(Source:Â Evidence Based Birth) https://evidencebasedbirth.com/evidence-on-placenta-encapsulation/