Mummification in Modern Funeral Homes

To mummify is to preserve and though we are no longer preserving our dead in modern funeral homes across the United States, we are preparing the bodies for the after life. 


Embalming has been practiced in many cultures, including our own. The most memorable culture who practiced this technique was the Ancient Egyptians. The steps they used in Ancient Egypt have greatly influenced embalming practices for modern day funerals and burials. 


Ancient Egypt
1) The body is cleansed fragrant wine
2) The brain, stomach, liver, lungs, and intestines are removed and dehydrated. The heart remains in the body for the afterlife.
3) The body is stuffed with mineral salts to dry out the body. 
4) 40 days later, oil and Nile water are applied to the skin.
5) The dehydrated organs are placed back in the body, along with sawdust and linens to make the body appear life-like.
6) Fragrant oils are applied and the body is wrapped in linen
Read How It's Done!


Modern Day
1) The corpse is washed with disinfectants.
2) The organs are no longer removed. Instead embalming fluid (preservatives and disinfectant agents) are injected into the body to temporarily avoid decomposition. 
3) The organs are evacuated and the fluid is removed.
4) The body is manipulated to look natural and peaceful
5) Other chemicals may be used on a case to case basis to further achieve a life-like look.
For More Info on Modern Day Embalming.....


Other similarities include burying the body with its favorite possessions such as clothing and jewelry. Make up is often applied to allow the body to carry on its physical appearance in the after life. This process allows the body to stay preserved long enough to achieve the desired burial. 


Other cultures other than Egypt are known for embalming or developing techniques to preserve their dead. The Han dynasty in China, a German scientist, and even game and fish experts have practiced, perfected, and improved the embalming process since Ancient Egypt's influence.