A growing number of celebrities are turning to a rather unusual post-pregnancy ritual eating their placenta. Known as placentophagy, the practice involves consuming the placenta after childbirth, often in pill form or raw. What was once a fringe or taboo tradition is now becoming a mainstream wellness trend, especially among Hollywood stars and social media influencers. From reality TV personalities like Kourtney Kardashian to actresses Hilary Duff and Katherine Heigl, many have publicly spoken about their decision to consume their placenta.
In India, the trend recently caught attention when influencer Alanna Panday, cousin of actress Ananya Panday, revealed that she also followed the practice after giving birth to her baby boy. She shared that she had her placenta turned into capsules by a company and took them regularly in the weeks following childbirth.
So, why are celebrities eating their placenta and what does it do with beauty and wellness?
Many women, including celebrities, believe that placenta consumption helps them recover faster after childbirth. The placenta is rich in iron, hormones like estrogen and progesterone, and nutrients that are thought to support postpartum recovery. Some mothers say that it boosts energy levels, helps improve mood, and even reduces the risk of postpartum depression. Kourtney Kardashian once said that consuming her placenta helped her feel more energized. Hilary Duff described her placenta pills as delightful and said they helped her emotionally after giving birth. Katherine Heigl also spoke about her positive experience, claiming it made a difference in her postpartum recovery.
Interestingly, the placenta trend has also found its way into the beauty world. Some high-end skincare brands use animal placental extracts (like sheep placenta) in face masks, creams, and serums, promoting it as an anti-aging and skin-rejuvenating ingredient. While this is different from eating one’s own placenta, the belief behind both trends is the same—that the placenta is full of nutrients that can help nourish and heal the body. For new mothers in the spotlight, who are under pressure to bounce back quickly, both physically and emotionally, placenta encapsulation can feel like a natural wellness tool. It ties into the larger celebrity obsession with self-care, clean living, and alternative health practices.
Medical opinions on placentophagy remain mixed. Some doctors argue there’s little scientific evidence to support its claimed benefits. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has even warned that improper processing could lead to bacterial infections. However, many women still report feeling positive effects, something that seems to keep the trend alive.
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