Evidence supporting the use of: Placental protein
For the health condition: Convalescence

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Placental protein, particularly in the form of human placental extract (HPE), has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, especially in East Asian countries such as Japan, China, and Korea. It is often promoted as a tonic to aid in recovery during convalescence—the period following illness, surgery, or childbirth—based on traditional beliefs that the placenta contains nutrients, growth factors, and other bioactive substances that can stimulate healing, improve vitality, and support tissue repair. Historical use is documented in both oral traditions and older pharmacopeias, where placenta-derived preparations were described as restorative and nourishing.

Scientifically, there is limited but emerging evidence evaluating the biological effects of placental extracts. Some small clinical studies and animal experiments suggest that placental extracts may possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties. These may, in theory, support recovery processes. However, robust, large-scale clinical trials specifically investigating efficacy in convalescence are lacking, and most available studies are either preliminary, of low methodological quality, or not directly focused on convalescence as a clinical endpoint. Regulatory agencies do not recognize placental protein as a standard treatment for convalescence, and safety concerns remain, particularly regarding the source and processing of placental products.

In summary, the use of placental protein for convalescence is primarily rooted in tradition, with only weak and indirect scientific evidence currently available to support its effectiveness for this indication.

More about Placental protein
More about Convalescence

Other health conditions supported by Placental protein

Anemia
Bleeding (external)
Burns and Scalds
Convalescence
Fibrosis

Products containing Placental protein

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.