Placenta as a Lactagogue: Enhancing Milk Production Postpartum
Recent studies have highlighted the powerful role that placenta consumption can play in boosting milk production in new mothers. One of the notable benefits of consuming placenta postpartum is its potential as a lactagogue, a substance that promotes or increases milk production.
Scientific Evidence on Placenta's Impact on Lactation
In a study involving Powdered Placenta Hominis, 57 cases of insufficient lactation were treated with this dried placenta preparation. Within just four days, 48 women experienced a marked increase in milk production, and the remaining mothers saw improvements within the following three days. This rapid improvement in milk supply highlights the potential of placenta as an effective natural remedy for hypogalactia (insufficient milk production).
Source: Bensky/Gamble, 1997. Materia Medica, Eastland Press, p. 549.
Study on the Efficacy of Dried Placenta for Lactation
Further research from Sojkova-Pachnerova et al. (1954) explored the use of dried placenta to stimulate milk secretion in mothers. In a controlled trial involving 210 women, 86.2% (181 women) responded positively to the treatment. Among these, 55.7% experienced good results, and 30.5% saw very good results. This suggests that placenta has a significant role in improving lactation for many mothers.
Interestingly, the study found that the active substance in placenta does not appear to be protein, nor does it act as a biogenic stimulator. This led researchers to consider that hormonal influences might be responsible for the observed increase in milk production. While progesterone was ruled out as the active hormone, the exact hormonal mechanism remains to be fully understood, with placenta’s lactation-boosting effects still being studied.
Source: Soykova-Pachnerova E, et al. (1954). Gynaecologia, 138(6): 617-627.
Placenta's Role in Addressing Hypogalactia
For mothers struggling with low milk supply, consuming placenta may be a natural and effective way to support breastfeeding. Placenta has long been used in various cultures as a remedy for hypogalactia, with positive results reported in the majority of women. This easily obtainable and safe preparation offers a promising option for new mothers looking to boost their milk production without relying on pharmaceutical treatments.
Why Choose Placenta for Lactation Support?
Placenta’s potential as a lactagogue is an exciting discovery for many mothers seeking a natural way to enhance milk supply. With a high success rate in improving lactation and relatively few negative side effects, placenta consumption offers a holistic approach to addressing breastfeeding challenges.
If you're considering placenta encapsulation or other placenta services in South Florida, contact us today to learn how this natural remedy can help support your postpartum recovery and breastfeeding journey.