Frequently Asked Questions

At Sacred Roots, I believe the journey into Motherhood is a sacred transformation, and your placenta holds the ancient medicine needed for a nourished postpartum. I am here to answer your questions about how this ritual of connection can empower your postnatal wellness.

My Philosophy & The Traditional Chinese Medicine Approach:

1. Why choose the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) method for my placenta encapsulation?

At Sacred Roots, I utilize the time-honored Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) method, which views the placenta, or Zi He Che, as a powerful warming tonic. Unlike the raw preparation method, the TCM preparation involves steaming the placenta gently with warming and grounding herbs like Huang Qi or Astragalus. In TCM philosophy, birth expends significant energy (Qi and Blood), leaving the body in a "cold" state. Steaming the placenta shifts its energetic nature from a raw, cool organ to a warming, tonifying medicine, which is essential for regulating Qi and Blood, helping to restore balance, and optimizing postpartum recovery.

2. What makes the Herbal Package a superior choice for my healing journey?

As a licensed Acupuncturist and Herbalist, I offer an integrated approach. The Herbal Package includes not only your encapsulated placenta but also traditional Chinese tonic herbs, often used in conjunction with Zi He Che for comprehensive support. These additional herbs work synergistically with your placenta capsules to build your overall constitution and extend your nourishment long after your capsules are gone. This option provides the deepest and most complete holistic postpartum support. Benefits and Expected Results

3. What are the key benefits of taking placenta capsules for my postpartum experience?

Mothers consistently report profound improvements when utilizing their placenta medicine. My clients seek encapsulation primarily for: Hormonal Balance: Stabilizing the dramatic shift in hormones after birth, which is crucial for postpartum mood support and helping to guard against the "baby blues" or postpartum depression (PPD). Replenishing Vitality: Replacing vital nutrients lost during childbirth, such as iron and B vitamins, leading to increased energy and fighting postpartum depletion. Supporting Lactation: Many mothers experience an increase in milk supply, often reporting improved volume and concentration to support the newborn's growth. Restful Sleep: Promoting a more regulated nervous system, which contributes to deeper, more restful sleep during this transformative time.

4. Is there scientific research to support the use of placenta capsules?

While the wisdom of using the placenta has been honored in cultures around the world for thousands of years (as Zi He Che), modern Western research is still emerging. Many benefits are currently considered anecdotal, based on overwhelming positive client testimonials regarding energy, mood, and milk production. I operate from the perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine, which uses historical data and individualized treatment to support the whole person. I encourage every client to trust their body's instinct and make an informed decision about their postnatal wellness. Process, Safety, and Logistics

5. How am I ensuring your safety and the purity of your placenta capsules?

Safety is my highest priority. I am trained in Blood-Borne Pathogens (BBP), adhering to strict OSHA standards, which is the specialized training required for this service. Safe Handling: I provide detailed instructions on how to safely store your placenta immediately after birth. Dedicated Processing: I utilize a clean, sanitized, dedicated workspace separate from any home kitchen environment to eliminate the risk of cross-contamination. I process only one placenta at a time, guaranteeing the capsules you receive are 100% yours. TCM Steaming: My use of the TCM steaming method heats the placenta to food-safe temperatures, adding an extra layer of protection by eliminating surface bacteria before dehydration.

6. What is the process from booking until I receive my pills?

Booking: Fill out my online contact form to secure your estimated due date. I will reach out to connect with you and answer any questions you have. When you are ready to move forward, I take a $50 deposit to confirm your booking, which will be applied to your final total.

Payment: Full payment is expected before the time of placenta pick up.

The Birth Call: Text me (Erin) when you go into labor and again once your baby has arrived.

Pickup: I will pick up your placenta promptly from your place of delivery (hospital, birth center, or home) within the Denver Metro Areas, Boulder, Westminster, Arvada, Thornton, Aurora, Golden and surrounding communities in Colorado.

Preparation: I begin the multi-step, two-day process: washing, steaming, dehydrating, grinding, and encapsulating. Delivery: Your completed package—including your placenta capsules, dosage instructions, and keepsakes—is hand-delivered to your home within 72 hours of pickup so your healing can begin immediately.

7. Are there any circumstances that would prevent me from encapsulating my placenta?

While most placentas are suitable, I prioritize safety above all else. Contraindications include: Confirmed uterine infection or chorioamnionitis. Fevers during labor (100.4F or higher) that persist for over one hour. Placenta sent to pathology for chemical treatment or preservation (a small lab sample is generally fine, but full-pathology preservation is a contraindication). Improper storage (e.g., left at room temperature for longer than 4 hours).Certain blood-borne viruses (e.g., HIV, Hepatitis B or C).If your placenta is meconium-stained, the TCM steaming method is usually still safe, and I will thoroughly cleanse and advise you before processing.

8. How many capsules will I receive, and what is the recommended dosage?

The final capsule count depends entirely on the size of your unique placenta, but the average yield is 100–150 capsules. This is the perfect supply created specifically by your body for your body. I provide personalized guidance, but a general starting protocol is 3 capsules, 2 times per day for the first few weeks, tapering down as your energy and mood stabilize. I recommend listening to your body; your dosage can be adjusted easily based on how you feel. Additional Healing & Pricing

9. I’m interested in your holistic approach. How does the Acupuncture and Moxa house call work?

The Acupuncture and Moxibustion house call is an optional add-on designed to provide deeper healing based on ancient Chinese principles. This treatment can be done prenatally for labor preparation or postpartum for profound regulation. Calming the Spirit: Acupuncture is highly effective at settling the nervous system, addressing anxiety, and promoting rest. Regulating Qi & Blood: I use specific points and moxa (a warming herb) to direct energy and blood flow back to the core, aiding physical healing and warming the uterus. Convenience: I come to you at home, often at the time of your capsule delivery, so you can receive a restorative treatment in the comfort of your own space.

10. What is the investment for this vital postpartum medicine?

I offer two packages to fit your specific needs: Traditional Package: Placenta Encapsulated + Umbilical Cord Keepsake $325

Herbal Package: Placenta Encapsulated + Traditional Chinese Postpartum Herbs + Umbilical Cord Keepsake + Herbal Lactation Cookies $375

Add-On: Acupuncture & Moxa House Call: Restorative treatment for hormone and nervous system regulation (offered pre- or postpartum)$75 postpartum at time of drop off or $200 for prenatal house call.

Ready to honor the sacred roots of your journey? Connect with me today!