The potential market value of placental tissue is a complex topic. While some individuals explore the possibility of selling the placenta after childbirth, few established, legal avenues exist for such transactions in most jurisdictions. Demand primarily comes from companies specializing in encapsulation, which process the placenta into pills or other forms for consumption by the birthing parent. Direct sales between individuals are rare and potentially carry health and legal risks. The price for placental processing services, rather than the raw tissue itself, typically ranges from $200 to $400.
Interest in potential placental applications stems from the organ’s rich biological composition, including hormones, growth factors, and other potentially beneficial substances. Historically, various cultures have incorporated placental practices into postpartum traditions. Modern interest frequently centers on the purported benefits of encapsulation, such as hormonal balance restoration, postpartum mood regulation, and increased milk production. However, scientific evidence supporting these claims remains limited, and more research is needed to determine the efficacy and safety of placental consumption.
