TCM (Traditional Chinese Method) or Raw method
The TCM method is based on Traditional Chinese Medicine practices. In this method, the placenta is steamed with lemon, ginger and hot pepper before being sliced and dehydrated.
Benefits of the TCM method:
• A warming and sustained energy that has been used for centuries.
• In Chinese Medicine, raw foods are considered “cooling” and not suitable for the tonifying purposes of nourishing blood and restoring energy for a postpartum mother.
• Cooking may actually release essential nutrients and make the beneficial properties of the placenta more available.
• Steaming first should destroy any viruses or pathogens that might be present, making it safer for the encapsulator and the mother consuming the placenta.
• Tends to dehydrate faster. You would get your capsules more quickly in many cases, approximately 12-24 hours sooner.
With the raw method, the placenta is not cooked, but is sliced raw and dehydrated. The rest of the process is the same, and either way mothers will have a jar of capsules at the end of the process.
Benefits of the raw method:
• More of a stimulant. Mothers report very high energy levels.
• You usually get more capsules and have to take fewer per day so they will last longer.
• Preserves any enzymes or hormones that may be destroyed when the placenta is heated above 118 degrees.
One caution about the raw method: I believe mothers should be in bed resting with their new baby for the first 10-14 days postpartum, breastfeeding, bonding, and healing from the birth. With raw capsules you may have such an energy boost that you don’t give your body enough time to rest and recover. If you choose raw, you may want to only take them in the morning and make sure you don’t overdo it with your activity level.
Benefits of the TCM method:
• A warming and sustained energy that has been used for centuries.
• In Chinese Medicine, raw foods are considered “cooling” and not suitable for the tonifying purposes of nourishing blood and restoring energy for a postpartum mother.
• Cooking may actually release essential nutrients and make the beneficial properties of the placenta more available.
• Steaming first should destroy any viruses or pathogens that might be present, making it safer for the encapsulator and the mother consuming the placenta.
• Tends to dehydrate faster. You would get your capsules more quickly in many cases, approximately 12-24 hours sooner.
With the raw method, the placenta is not cooked, but is sliced raw and dehydrated. The rest of the process is the same, and either way mothers will have a jar of capsules at the end of the process.
Benefits of the raw method:
• More of a stimulant. Mothers report very high energy levels.
• You usually get more capsules and have to take fewer per day so they will last longer.
• Preserves any enzymes or hormones that may be destroyed when the placenta is heated above 118 degrees.
One caution about the raw method: I believe mothers should be in bed resting with their new baby for the first 10-14 days postpartum, breastfeeding, bonding, and healing from the birth. With raw capsules you may have such an energy boost that you don’t give your body enough time to rest and recover. If you choose raw, you may want to only take them in the morning and make sure you don’t overdo it with your activity level.
I do offer both preparation methods. You can choose one or the other for all of your capsules
or I would be happy to give you half and half for a small additional fee.
The TCM capsules can be used for your initial healing and milk supply, and then you also
have your RAW capsules for those days when you need the extra energy boost.
This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Angela Ashwill/Inspiration Baby is not a licensed medical provider or formally trained in Chinese Medicine and therefore not able to diagnose, treat or prescribe for any health condition. Families who choose to utilize the services and information on this website take full responsibility for their own health. No results or benefits are promised or guaranteed, and results will vary for every individual.