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When a person dies, the body naturally begins to decompose as bacteria and enzymes break down tissues. Embalming is a scientific and hygienic method used to slow this process, preserve the body for a period of time, and present it in a peaceful, dignified state for viewing or transportation.
What Is Embalming?
Embalming is the process of temporarily preserving a dead body by replacing its natural fluids with special preservative chemicals such as formaldehyde, glutaraldehyde, and ethanol. These chemicals slow decomposition, disinfect the body, and help maintain a natural appearance.
The Embalming Process: Step by Step
1. Body Preparation
The embalmer begins by washing and disinfecting the body. The eyes and mouth are closed carefully to create a relaxed, natural expression. The body is then positioned on a preparation table, and the skin is cleaned to remove bacteria and bodily fluids.
2. Arterial Embalming
This is the main part of the process. The embalmer makes a small incision, usually near the carotid artery, and inserts a tube connected to an embalming machine. Preservative fluid is pumped through the arteries while blood is drained from a corresponding vein.
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The fluid travels throughout the circulatory system, disinfecting tissues and replacing moisture with preservative chemicals. This restores the firmness, color, and texture of the body, making it appear more lifelike.
3. Cavity Embalming
After arterial embalming, the embalmer removes gases and fluids from the body’s internal cavities (abdomen and chest) using a surgical instrument called a trocar. These spaces are then filled with a stronger preservative fluid to prevent internal decay.
4. Cosmetic and Surface Care
Finally, the embalmer cleans the body again, applies makeup to restore natural skin tone, dresses the body, and styles the hair. The goal is to present the deceased as peaceful and dignified for viewing by loved ones.
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Benefits of Embalming
1. Temporary Preservation
Embalming slows down decomposition for a significant period — usually several days to weeks, depending on temperature and storage conditions. This allows time for relatives to gather, plan the funeral, and conduct viewing ceremonies without the body showing visible signs of decay.
2. Hygienic and Safe Handling
The process disinfects the body, reducing health risks from bacteria or infectious agents. This makes it safer for mortuary workers and mourners who come into contact with the deceased.
3. Maintains Natural Appearance
Embalming helps restore a natural look, countering the effects of illness or trauma. This allows family and friends to see their loved one looking peaceful, which can provide emotional comfort and closure.
4. Enables Long-Distance Transportation
Embalmed bodies can be safely transported across long distances, whether across counties or countries, without rapid decomposition. This is often required by law for international repatriation.
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What Happens to an Embalmed Body Over Time?
Embalming is not a permanent preservation method — it significantly slows decomposition but does not stop it forever.
In the first few weeks to months, an embalmed body remains largely intact, especially if kept in cool, dry conditions.
After several months to a few years, tissues begin to dehydrate, the skin darkens slightly, and internal organs gradually break down, though much more slowly than in an unembalmed body.
After many years (5–20 years or more), depending on the embalming chemicals, coffin type, and burial environment, the body will eventually dry out and mummify rather than rot in the traditional sense.
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Bodies buried in airtight or sealed coffins in dry climates can last decades with some recognizable features. However, in humid or acidic soil, even embalmed bodies eventually decompose — just at a slower, more controlled rate.
In Kenya, embalming costs several thousand shillings just for the embalming/preparation of the body (KSh ~2,500-150,000 or higher, depending on facility and what’s included). The exact price depends a lot on factors such as the condition of the body, viewing, special restoration, transport, etc.
Final Thoughts
Embalming bridges the gap between science, respect, and emotional healing. It preserves the deceased long enough for families to say farewell with dignity, restores a sense of peace and beauty, and ensures sanitary handling.
While it does not prevent decay forever, embalming provides a crucial window of preservation and presentation — offering comfort, closure, and time to honor the life that was lived.
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