Image source, Sebastian Kaulitzki/Science Photo Library
- Warning: This article contains sensitive imagery related to human tissues.
Authorities in Pakistan are investigating a network accused of trafficking human placentas from hospitals and using them as raw material for so-called ‘anti-aging’ injections purported to slow aging.
The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) alleges this group purchases around 200 kilograms of human placenta monthly from various hospitals.
According to the FIA, the placentas are dried, processed, and then exported abroad.
At the end of last month in the capital Islamabad, officials raided an illegal processing center where approximately 500 kilograms of human placenta were seized and five individuals arrested.
Photos released by the FIA show containers filled with dried placentas placed on trolley sections inside a house converted into a ‘placenta storage and processing facility.’
Image source, FIA
Hina Kanwal, an official from Pakistan’s Human Organ Transplant Authority, explained the suspects purchased placenta worth approximately 2.90 US dollars each from hospitals in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. She emphasized this would not be feasible without collusion from hospital administrations.
The FIA reports that the processed placentas are exported and used to manufacture ‘anti-aging’ injections, which can cost up to 2,530 US dollars per injection.
Kanwal noted there is significant demand for human placenta in cosmetic surgery, although its trade is illegal in Pakistan.
Anyone found collecting human organs commercially may face up to 10 years imprisonment and fines up to 3,600 US dollars.
According to the FIA, the criminal network extends to Lahore and Peshawar, prompting investigations into possible involvement of immigration officials, waste management companies, and hospitals.
Image source, FIA
Previous legal action has targeted illegal human organ transplantation, but this case marks the first uncovering of an international network involved in placenta trafficking.
The suspects initially claimed to be processing sheep placenta but later admitted it was human placenta during interrogation.
In another operation, authorities seized 100 kilograms of human placenta being smuggled to Vietnam from Islamabad International Airport. Though human placenta use is prohibited in Vietnam, animal placenta is legally permitted.
So far, nine individuals have been arrested in connection with the placenta trade and remain in custody.
Image source, FIA
Pakistani obstetrician and gynecologist Sadf Tariq described human placenta as “highly infectious medical waste” and says strict regulations govern its management.
At birth, the placenta is separated and stored carefully in a yellow bag labeled ‘placenta,’ then transferred to a hospital’s cold storage unit.
It can be safely preserved for up to 24 hours before being incinerated. Both public and private hospitals strictly follow these protocols.
Use of Human Placenta in Traditional Medicine
The placenta, a temporary organ developed in the uterus during pregnancy, protects the fetus’s life.
It is connected to the fetus via the umbilical cord, responsible for delivering oxygen and nutrients and removing waste.
At natural births, the placenta is expelled shortly after delivery; during cesarean sections, it is surgically removed.
Image source, Getty Images
Some people view placenta as rich in protein, iron, and fat, considering it a nutritious substance even for adults.
For centuries, various cultures have used extracts of placenta juice in traditional medicine.
U.S.-based market research company Polaris estimates legal global trade of placenta-based products could reach 1.4 billion US dollars by 2034.
Senior Polaris analyst Nitin Tambe states human placenta presents significant potential in medical innovation and cosmetic treatments.
Image source, Paola Tellez/Getty Images
Interestingly, substances derived from the placenta, which protects early life, are often marketed for addressing aging-related issues such as:
- Hair graying
- Hair loss
- Menopause
- Infertility
- Skin whitening
The placenta contains abundant female hormones (estrogen and progesterone), making it a source for various medications. Some use it for postpartum depression treatment.
Additionally, placenta extracts have been applied with limited success in managing autoimmune diseases, stroke, chronic fatigue, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, liver disorders, Crohn’s disease, and certain cancers.
Tariq notes, “Research shows it could also enhance iron levels and be incorporated into medicines targeting postpartum anemia.”
Placenta can be developed into pills or injections and is claimed to aid tissue regeneration.
The inner layer of the placenta contains ‘growth factors’ used surgically to treat deep wounds, burns, ulcers, and eye injuries.
However, scientific validation of these practices and regulatory standards internationally remain inconsistent.
Japan Bio Products (JBP), a Japanese company, exports 100% placenta powder capsules as nutritional supplements to several Asian countries. Some products derive from human placenta, others from pig or horse placenta.
Winston Oei, JBP’s regional manager, said, “Asians generally have an open-minded attitude toward placenta-based products, especially Chinese consumers who have a traditional practice of consuming placenta.”
“With increasing online information, people have become more aware of these products and demand has grown,” Oei added.
Illegal Human Placenta Trade in China
Although commercial purchase and sale of human placenta is banned in China, underground markets and online platforms continue to trade fresh human placenta illegally.
An online trader reported selling a single human placenta for over 50 US dollars.
He stated, “If bought in bulk, I can sell it for 40 dollars. We buy raw placenta at 30 dollars per kilogram.”
Legal specialist Zhang noted that offenders often face relatively small fines, which are five times less than their illegal earnings.
“If fines were increased fiftyfold, they would reconsider their actions,” he added.
Traditional Chinese medicine practitioner Yao explained that ancient Chinese medicine used human placenta to enhance immunity and treat asthma and bronchitis.
Image source, Tribune News Service via Getty Images
However, Dr. Hong Jangsong of Shanghai People’s Hospital warned, “Consuming unclean placenta can lead to infections like HIV, Hepatitis B, and syphilis.”
She further noted that many new mothers decide to take their own placenta home instead of discarding it.
One new mother stated that her mother and mother-in-law wanted to consume her placenta, which she declined.
Another woman paid approximately 7 US dollars at a shop beside the hospital to have her placenta powdered and turned into capsules.
She claimed to have made it for improving her father-in-law’s poor health.
In eastern China, some women reported that online advertisement restrictions caused business difficulties, though demand remains strong.
To access similar content, you can subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
