The Very Basics of Embalming

Embalming is basically a funeral custom in which the dead body is first cleaned and then disinfected after death. This tradition of embalming the body can be traced as far back as the ancient Egyptians. The ancient Egyptians used oils, herbs and special body preparations to help in the preservation of the bodies of their dead. However, it is true that no process or products have been devised to preserve a body in the grave indefinitely.

Today embalming is used for two primary reasons: (a) to allow adequate time between death and burial in order to observe social customs which include visitations and funeral services.  (b) Embalming is also done to prevent the spread of infections. In this process cosmetic work is also often used for aesthetic reasons.

Nowadays, with modern technology, modern embalming consists of removing all the blood and gases from the body and then the insertion of a disinfecting fluid. In the body small incisions are made in the carotid or the femoral artery and the jugular or femoral vein. In this process the disinfecting fluid is injected through the carotid or femoral artery which helps to drain out the blood from the jugular or femoral vein.

Certain questions may arise in the deceased’s member’s family regarding Embalming. We shall try to explain some of them:

Why Should We Go For Embalming? As stated earlier a body is embalmed for a very basic reason which is to preserve the body long enough for us to perform the funeral rites. It is well known that most religions do not believe in embalming, while others see it as entirely natural. Many people wish to display a healthy-looking body on which they think is a comforting way to say goodbye, and preserve happy memories.

Do you really want to see the body before the funeral? This is another important question as in an open casket, embalming may not be essential. If the body is in a casket it becomes a priority to think about the clothes in the casket or putting glasses on the body. Viewing a body in this fashion can be more surprising to mourners than the natural features of death.

Cost Factor: Fit is obvious that funerals can be an unexpected expense for the family. Embalming is definitely expensive. As embalming is not required by law the process becomes a personal choice. 

Do you really want an open casket in the funeral: Throughout the World, different cultures families and even different people have different opinions with regards to the open caskets at funerals? If you really require an open casket then embalming the body may be a good idea as the body can be preserved for longer period of time. You should consider how long the casket is likely to be open before the funeral. If many people are going to view the open casket then embalming is probably a good idea.

Usually in an embalming process, the family is not present so it becomes difficult for you to actually view an embalming process. These days most people do not have the desire to view so it is done privately by a licensed embalmer.