In a number of cultures, it’s not uncommon for a woman to eat the placenta after her baby is born. Although the science behind such a practice is controversial, Joel Stein of Time shows how a placenta is prepared for consumption.
After a mother gives birth, the placenta can be consumed as pills to provide her with extra nutrients. First, the umbilical cord is detached. Then the placenta is cooked to help the drying process to begin. After that, it is fully dehydrated and then crushed. The powder is then put into capsules, which the new mother can take to help with post-partum depression and milk production.