Current evidence and clinical applications of placental extracts
10.32581/jkifm.2024.7.2.19
- Author:
Sang-Hoon LEE
1
;
Sang Man KIM
Author Information
1. Functional Medicine Clinic, Green Cross I-MED Gangnam Center, Seoul, Korea
- Publication Type:Review Article
- From:
Journal of Korean Institute for Functional Medicine
2024;7(2):19-30
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
The placenta, a tissue unique to mammals including humans, plays multiple essential roles during pregnancy, facilitating nutrient supply, metabolism, immune modulation, and hormone regulation between the fetus and mouther. Historically, medical use of the placenta dates back to antiquity, with Hippocrates reportedly using it as a therapeutic agent, and traditional Asian medical textbooks such as Bencao Gangmu in China and Donguibogam in Korea also documenting its medicinal properties. In modern medicine, Soviet ophthalmologist Vladimir Filatov utilized placenta in disease treatment in the 1930s, and in the 1950s, placental preparations began pharmaceutical production in Japan. Recently, two injectable placental products, human placental extracts and human placental hydrolysates (HPH), are approved for menopausal symptom relief and liver function improvement in South Korea (though in clinical practice or research area, HPH often described simply as placental extracts). Current interest in anti-aging, menopause, regeneration, and detoxification has increased utilization and research on these placental products, although well-designed studies and evidence remain limited. This article aims to review the current medical evidence and clinical application of placental extracts, especially with a focus on HPH drawing from the authors' extensive clinical experience.
