The Truth About Embalming: A Historical and Eco-Friendly Perspective

Eco-Friendly Funeral Options are Healthy for Humans and the Environment

For centuries, embalming has been associated with preserving the human body after death. While this practice has a long and storied history, it is not required for cremation, water cremation, terramation, or even traditional burial. In fact, many families today are choosing not to embalm, making their end-of-life choices more environmentally friendly.

The History of Embalming: From Ancient Egypt to Modern Times

The origins of embalming trace back over 5,000 years to ancient Egypt, where it was a sacred practice designed to preserve bodies for the afterlife. The intricate mummification process, which involved removing internal organs and treating the body with resins and natron salts, was believed to ensure safe passage into eternity. Other cultures, including the Chinchorro people of South America and certain indigenous groups, also developed preservation techniques for religious and spiritual reasons.

A symbolic representation of honoring memories through natural and eco-friendly funeral choices. Flowing water and nature elements signify the passage of time and sustainability.

Modern embalming emerged during the American Civil War when it became necessary to transport soldiers’ remains over long distances. The use of formaldehyde-based embalming fluid gained popularity, allowing for longer preservation and open-casket funerals. Today, many funeral homes offer embalming as a standard service, but it is not legally required in most cases.

Is Embalming Necessary?

Despite its historical significance, embalming is not a requirement for most funeral options. Families can still choose to have a viewing without embalming. At Anubis, refrigeration is used instead of embalming and we will make your loved one presentable for a viewing or service. This allows loved ones to say their final goodbyes without the need for invasive chemical treatments. Watch our video:

Did you know embalming isn’t required for cremation, water cremation, terramation, or even burial? Learn why families are choosing sustainable, eco-friendly alternatives to honor their loved ones.

For those considering cremation, terramation, or burial, opting out of embalming can be a more natural and environmentally responsible choice. Many cemeteries allow direct burial without embalming, and water cremation—an innovative alternative to flame cremation—does not require it at all.

The Eco-Friendly Case for Avoiding Embalming

Traditional embalming uses formaldehyde, a chemical that can be hazardous to both human health and the environment. Over time, embalming fluids seep into the soil, contributing to groundwater contamination. In contrast, avoiding embalming reduces toxic chemical exposure and aligns with sustainable end-of-life practices.

Choosing sustainable end-of-life options such as water cremation, terramation, and direct burial without embalming helps reduce environmental impact while honoring loved ones.

At Anubis Cremations, we provide families with environmentally conscious options, including low-emission flame cremation, water cremation, terramation, and direct burial without embalming. Water cremation, also known as alkaline hydrolysis, and natural organic reduction (terramation) is available throughout California, including Ventura County, Santa Barbara County, the San Francisco Bay Area, Sacramento, and surrounding counties. In the San Francisco Bay Area, we serve the following counties: Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Solano, and Sonoma. In the Sacramento metropolitan area, we serve the surrounding counties: El Dorado County, Nevada County, Placer County, Sacramento County, Sutter County, Yolo County, and Yuba County. For families seeking cremation or traditional burial without embalming, we serve Los Angeles County, Orange County, Riverside County, and San Bernardino County.

Viewing Options Without Embalming

A common misconception is that embalming is required for a viewing. The truth is that families can still hold a meaningful farewell service without chemical preservation. We offer in-person and virtual viewings for both flame cremation and water cremation, ensuring that loved ones can gather and honor their departed in a way that aligns with their values.

Families can hold meaningful viewings and memorial services without embalming.

Making the Right Choice for Your Loved One

Understanding the history and environmental impact of embalming empowers families to make informed choices about end-of-life care. Whether opting for water cremation, terramation, direct burial, or traditional cremation without embalming, there are sustainable, respectful alternatives available.

If you’re exploring options and have questions about how to plan an eco-friendly farewell, our team at Anubis Cremations is here to help. We proudly serve families across Southern California and beyond, providing compassionate guidance every step of the way.

For more information on our services or to discuss your loved one’s arrangements, contact us today at 323-644-3323.