We use embalming today for two primary reasons - to allow adequate time between death and burial to observe social customs such as visitations and funeral services, and to prevent the spread of infection.
1) Why do we embalm?
Embalming is primarily done to disinfect and preserve the remains. Secondly, it has been a tradition to have a period of visitation of the remains. This is known as the wake or calling hours. Without embalming, most remains would not be viewable within a short amount of time. Embalming gives us the time needed to pay respect and express our sympathies.
2) How is embalming done?
When remains arrive at a funeral home, it is subjected to a series of steps before the actual preparation of remains are complete.
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