placentophagy


Eating of the placenta after giving birth
Comparative zoology Most placental mammals, including herbivores, have eaten their own placentas, including Insectivora, Rodentia, Chiroptera, Lagomorpha, Carnivora, Perissodactyla, Artiodactyla, and Primates.
The benefit is attributed to a poorly characterised substance called Placental Opioid-Enhancing Factor (POEF), which is allegedly found in placenta and amniotic fluid and said to modifiy endogenous opioid activity, and reduce post-partum pain
Ethnomedicine The practice of eating the placenta post delivery. While it is not a common practice, a fringe group of advocates claim it reduces post-partum depression and improves nutrition.

placentophagy

Ethnomedicine The practice of eating the placenta post delivery. Cf Cannibalism, Pica.