So you want to encapsulate a placenta but not sure where to start? There are a few different methods you can choose from however whatever method you select, the benefits remain the same. The method shared here is known as the steamed method and is actually rather simple to do.
SUPPLIES NEEDED:
- A fresh placenta – You want to encapsulate a placenta as soon after birth as possible. Once the placenta has been birthed immediately place it in a glass bowl with a lid and store in the refrigerator. It can remain there for up to 72hrs before being encapsulated.
- A capsule machine – You can generally find them on-line for under $20. Or perhaps borrow one from a friend for free. This is the one I use.
- Capsules – There are several different sizes so be sure to purchase the size capsule that fits your capsule machine. Standard size is “O” or “OO”. You can buy gelatin or vegetarian capsules. I recommended vegetarian capsules, as the gelatins ones are greatly affected by temperature and are more likely to stick together. Capsules can be ordered online or might be available at your local natural foods/vitamin store. It is likely you will need more than 100 capsules per placenta so keep that in mind when purchasing. It really, really stinks to run out of capsules during the encapsulation process.
- Gloves – You may choose not to wear gloves if you are handling your own placenta. However if you are handling another person’s placenta, you will want gloves. Having a few pair to use throughout the process is helpful.
Glass cutting board- Sharp Knife
- Tongs
- Fresh ginger, lemongrass, peppercorns
- Food dehydrator OR
- Cookie sheet if using oven at a low temperature for dehydration
- Blender, coffee grinder, or mortar and pestle
- Glass cup
- Glass plate
- Garbage bag
- A CLEAN work space
STEPS for ENCAPSULATION:
1. Gather all materials and prepare your workspace.
2. Take a minute to take a deep breath and honor the sacred work you are about to do. I generally say a small blessing over the placenta to send loving energy to mama and baby.
3. Begin by removing cord and membranes from placenta. Cord may be set aside to make a cord keepsake. Otherwise dispose of membrane and cord.
4. Fill pot with water, sliced ginger root, lemongrass, and peppercorns. Bring to a soft boil. Add placenta. Cover and steam until you can pierce the placenta and no more blood comes out.
5. Remove from pot and slice into thin slices.
6. Place placenta slices in food dehydrator or on cookie sheet in oven set on lowest temperature. Time will vary depending on how thick the slices, temperature, method, etc. but expect this part to take approximately 8 to 12 hrs.
7. Grind dried placenta slices into a powder using a blender, clean coffee grinder, or by hand with a mortar and pestle.
8. Fill empty capsules with placenta powder per instructions on your capsule machine. I use the glass cup to pour placenta powder into capsules and the glass plate underneath to catch any loose powder.
9. Store placenta pills in a glass jar in the freezer.
A little care package for a new mama: placenta pills, red raspberry leaf tea, and a cord keepsake
Suggested dosage: Take 2 or 3 placenta pills (depending on what size capsule was used) a day for the first several weeks post birth. Then take one a day or take as needed/desired.
