How to keep a mummy

Overview

The concept of 'keeping a mummy' evokes images of ancient tombs and preserved pharaohs, but it also touches upon modern scientific methods for preserving biological matter. Historically, mummification was a sophisticated ritualistic practice, most famously associated with ancient Egypt, designed to preserve the body for eternity. In contemporary times, the preservation of human remains, whether for scientific study, historical display, or even forensic purposes, relies on scientific understanding and controlled environments.

Ancient Egyptian Mummification: A Religious Endeavor

Ancient Egyptian mummification was far more than a method of preservation; it was a deeply religious and spiritual undertaking. The Egyptians believed in an afterlife and that the body, or khat, needed to be preserved for the soul, or ka, to recognize and inhabit in the next world. This belief drove the elaborate and lengthy process of mummification.

The process typically began with the removal of internal organs, as they were prone to rapid decomposition. The brain was usually extracted through the nose using a hook, and the abdominal organs (stomach, intestines, liver, lungs) were removed through an incision in the abdomen. The heart, however, was usually left in place, as it was believed to be the seat of intelligence and emotion, crucial for judgment in the afterlife.

Following organ removal, the body was thoroughly dried using natron, a natural salt found in Egypt. The body would be covered and packed with natron for approximately 40 days, drawing out all moisture. This desiccation was the most critical step in preventing decay.

Once dried, the body was cleansed, anointed with oils and resins, and then meticulously wrapped in hundreds of yards of linen bandages. Amulets and charms were often placed within the wrappings to provide protection for the deceased on their journey. Finally, the mummy was placed in a series of nested coffins, often elaborately decorated, and then interred in a tomb.

Modern Preservation of Human Remains

While the religious motivations of ancient mummification are no longer the primary driver for preserving human bodies, modern science employs various techniques for similar goals, albeit with different objectives. These might include:

1. Embalming

Embalming, as commonly practiced today, is a process that uses chemical solutions to preserve the body temporarily, often for funeral viewings. The primary embalming fluid typically contains formaldehyde, which denatures proteins and prevents decomposition. Other chemicals are added to restore color and firmness.

2. Plastination

Developed by Gunther von Hagens, plastination is a process that replaces water and fat in tissues with curable polymers, such as silicone, polyester, or epoxy resin. This results in durable, odorless, and dry specimens that retain their anatomical detail and can be handled. Plastinated specimens are commonly found in medical museums and educational institutions.

3. Cryopreservation

Cryopreservation involves preserving biological matter at extremely low temperatures, typically using liquid nitrogen. While more commonly applied to cells, tissues, and organs for medical purposes (like fertility treatments), there is also a field known as cryonics that aims to preserve entire bodies with the hope of future revival. However, the long-term viability and success of reviving a cryopreserved human body remain highly speculative.

4. Chemical Fixation and Storage

For anatomical study and museum display, human remains are often preserved through chemical fixation, most commonly using formalin (a solution of formaldehyde). After fixation, specimens may be stored in ethanol or other preserving fluids. These methods halt bacterial action and enzymatic degradation, allowing for long-term preservation.

Environmental Control for Preservation

Regardless of the preservation method used, maintaining a controlled environment is paramount for the longevity of any preserved body or specimen. Key factors include:

• Temperature: Lower temperatures generally slow down chemical reactions and biological activity, thus slowing decomposition. Museums and labs often maintain cool, stable temperatures.
• Humidity: Excessive humidity can encourage mold growth and bacterial activity, even in preserved tissues. Conversely, extreme dryness can lead to desiccation and cracking. A stable, moderate humidity level is usually ideal.
• Light: Direct sunlight and intense artificial light can degrade organic materials over time, causing fading and structural damage. Specimens are often stored in dark environments or protected from light exposure.
• Pest Control: Insects and rodents can cause significant damage to preserved remains. Museums and storage facilities employ strict pest control measures.

In summary, while the ancient art of mummification was driven by spiritual beliefs and involved specific rituals, the modern 'keeping' of mummies or preserved bodies is a scientific endeavor focused on halting decomposition through chemical treatments and meticulously controlled environmental conditions. These preserved individuals offer invaluable insights into history, anatomy, and the human condition.