What Is Embalming Fluid?
Embalming fluid is a combination of chemicals used to preserve, sanitize and disinfect a human body before it is buried. These chemicals include a mixture of methanol, formaldehyde and ethanol, as well as a range of other solvents. In the United States, more than 20 million liters of embalming fluid are used every year to preserve bodies in mortuaries and funeral homes (PERC Reports, 2007). Reasoning Embalming has been historically used to help preserve bodies for religious and ceremonial reasons. Today, embalming is used to help slow down the decaying process long enough for there to be a viewing time for friends and family of the deceased. Morticians want to provide the most realistic-looking facial structure and look for a viewing. Without embalming fluid, bodies would decay too much to have open casket funerals. How It Works Decomposition is caused by bacteria eating the dead skin tissue for nutrients. Embalming fluid works by sealing the tissue cells so that the bacteria cannot ea
