Embalming
Embalming is defined as the preservation of a body from decay,
originally with spices and more recently through arterial injection
of embalming fluid.
Historically, the process is identified with the Egyptians, and
the mummification of bodies. In fact, this complicated and extreme
method was abandoned, although in recent centuries, ways of
preserving bodies has received considerable attention. Varying
levels of success were achieved but probably due to expense, they
were utilised by very few people.
In the past thirty years, the commercial promotion of embalming
has greatly increased. There has also been an increase in the use
of unqualified embalmers over this period. Embalming is
particularly evident amongst larger commercial funeral directors in
urban locations. Conversely, the process is less common in rural
areas, where small funeral directing businesses predominate. This
is, in part, due to them lacking the facilities necessary to embalm
the body. Also, some funeral directors appear to oppose the
process.
The current use of the word "embalming" is misleading. The
process is generally referred to as cosmetic embalming. It is used
to improve the visual appearance of the body, and to prevent
deterioration in the period leading up to the funeral. It has no
long term preservative value and cannot be compared with the
Egyptian concept of preserving bodies.
The decision as to merits of embalming must lie with the
individual although a number of issues should be considered:-
Embalming and environmental issues
The embalming process involves removing the body fluids and
replacing them with a solution of formaldehyde, often containing a
pink dye. The body fluids are treated and disposed of via the
public sewer. The embalming fluid normally consists of a 2%
solution of formaldehyde, an irritant, volatile acid. Approximately
one pint of embalming fluid per stone weight of the body, plus one
pint, is used. Consequently, one to two gallons of embalming fluid
can be used and the effect of this on soil, soil organisms and air
quality following burial or cremation needs further independent
research. Our ignorance of the consequences of using this chemical
is a cause for concern. In particular, the chemical is used by
funeral directors and embalmers who carry no responsibility for its
impact on the cemetery, crematorium or community.
In some burial schemes, such as woodland burial, all chemicals
may be prohibited. This restriction may apply to embalming fluid as
well as to horticultural chemicals. At the time this Charter is
being prepared, it has been suggested that a "green" embalming
fluid is available. No confirmation of this has been obtained.
Is embalming necessary?
Is it difficult to find support for routine embalming in the
medical profession. There is no evidence that a body poses a threat
to the living, except where death was due to a notifiable disease.
No evidence exists of funeral directing, cemetery or crematorium
staff obtaining an infection from an unembalmed body. Embalmers
suggest that the process thoroughly disinfects the body and removes
any risk, however slight, to any person who may come into contact
with the body. Conversely, it would be logical to assume that if a
real health risk existed, embalming would be mandatory. In fact,
when a person dies of a notifiable disease, embalming is not
allowed.
The British Institute of
Embalmers (external link) comment as follows:-
"The visual characteristics of a badly damaged
body may be improved by additional specialised treatment where time
is available. To be effective, it may be necessary to carry out the
treatment where time is available. To be effective, it may be
necessary to carry out the treatment over more than 24 hours.
Effective cosmetic treatment in such cases may also decrease the
trauma of a sudden death, and the benefit is almost always
acknowledged by the bereaved".
It should be noted that where the person required a high intake
of drugs during their terminal illness, their body can deteriorate
rapidly. This can be delayed by refrigeration.