Human Embalming Techniques: A Review

Abstract

Embalming in most modern cultures is the art and science of temporarily preserving human remains to forestall decomposition and make it suitable for display at a funeral. Human embalming started in Egypt about 3,000 (three thousand) years ago when the Egyptian noticed the preservation and mummification which took place when they left their human bodies in the desert. The two methods of preserving human cadavers are: the natural method and non-natural method. The ingredients that can be used for making up human embalming fluids are: formalin, phenol, methylated spirit, Glycerin and water. Certain factors like temperature, access by insect and access by carnivores can affect an embalmed body. Measures to follow when carrying out human embalming are to always wear laboratory coat, hand (surgical) gloves and rain boots. It has also been recommended that human embalming should be carried out in a place that is equipped with an extractor fan or a well-ventilated area.