7 Alternatives to Embalming: Lower Cost for Higher Meaning

Traditional embalming is costly and harmful to the environment, yet it’s been the norm for so long.

But is embalming the most suitable option in each case? What are the alternatives to embalming? Is there a better way in certain scenarios?

In this article, we’ll dive deep into seven alternatives to embalming, some modern, and some old. All of them are kinder to your pocket, gentler on Mother Nature, and more meaningful for you and your loved ones: 

1. Refrigeration
2. Dry Ice
3. Essential Oils & Herbals
4. Cryonics
5. Enigma Embalming
6. Alkaline Hydrolysis or Water Cremation
7. Natural Burial

Keep reading to redefine your perspective on post-life care, to discover each alternative in detail, quickly and thoroughly, right here.

Brief History of Embalming 

What is embalming? It’s an art, dating back to the ancient Egyptians, where the bodies of nobility were carefully preserved for the afterlife.

• As centuries passed, embalming evolved, influenced by cultural shifts and technological advancements.
• In the Middle Ages, the process was used to preserve the deceased’s dignity.
• During the bloody American Civil War, embalming became critical for transporting fallen soldiers home in a recognizable shape.
• Today, it’s a sophisticated process that allows loved ones to be remembered in the best possible light.

The changes we see throughout the history of embalming reflect our changing attitudes toward death and remembrance.

Health and Environmental Concerns

Did you know that embalming, the traditional method of preserving a body for a funeral, carries significant health and environmental risks?

• Embalmers, for instance, face potential health hazards due to their exposure to formaldehyde (FA), a key ingredient in embalming solutions.
• According to funeral industry statistics, more than 4 million gallons of embalming fluid is used every year.
• This not only exposes those working in the industry to the health risks of embalming but also has deleterious environmental consequences.
• When we cremate an embalmed body, a portion of embalming fluids is released into the air.

Because of these health risks and the environmental impact of embalming, many people are now considering alternatives.

These days, embalming has become less of a necessity and more of a personal preference, with families making arrangements based on personal preferences.

Emerging trends in the field are moving towards more eco-friendly and health-conscious methods. For example, some are turning to green funerals and cremation, minimizing the need for traditional, potentially harmful practices.

Alternatives to Embalming

A few alternatives to traditional embalming are gaining popularity, and for good reason. Not only can they be more cost-effective, but they also have a significantly lower environmental impact. 

Simply put, they don’t involve any dangerous substances — some of them rely on the natural body preservation method.

Intrigued?

Stick around as we look into these embalming alternatives, and discover their unique properties.

Refrigeration

Ever wondered how funeral homes keep things cool, literally? Well, it’s all about refrigeration or dead body cold storage. Kept between -10°C to -50°C, the fridge slows decomposition, giving you time to say your goodbyes without having to embalm. 

Unlike traditional embalming, refrigeration is relatively eco-friendly, with no harmful chemicals in sight. It’s also your ticket into green cemeteries, where embalmed bodies are a no-go.

On the flip side, not all funeral homes offer refrigeration, and it can come with a price tag. 

Dry Ice

Dry ice refrigeration is used to preserve human remains with impressive results. It works by slowing decomposition, targeting specific areas like the torso and internal organs without freezing the entire body.

It’s a game-changer for funeral arrangements, facilitating easier transportation of the deceased. For home funerals, this method is particularly useful as cooling packs for the body can be used to maintain a low temperature.

It does, however, call for careful handling and good ventilation. Plus, the effectiveness of dry ice also depends on the method used and time elapsed since death.

For more information on how to plan a home funeral, read more here.

Cryonics

Ever wondered, “Do cryonics work?” Well, not just a sci-fi concept anymore, cryonics is an alternative to traditional embalming, where the dead are preserved at chilly -150°C.  The science behind it is fascinating, as it involves replacing body fluids with a vitrification solution to halt bodily processes.

But how is cryonics performed? It’s all about preserving the brain’s structure, betting on the chance that future technologies could restore personality and memories. Ethical considerations and practical limitations like availability and cost can make it tricky for the likes of everyday people.

Currently, around 500 people have undergone this process, but even now, there are around 2,000 members signed up with leading cryonics providers, so the interest is certainly there.

Essential Oils & Herbals

Essential oils and herbs are probably the oldest organic body preservation solutions known to humanity. In a gentle, respectful way, they preserve and scent human remains as an alternative to traditional embalming.

Essential oils such as frankincense, myrrh, and rosemary were prized in historical funeral practices for their preserving qualities. Yet, they’re not just about preservation — they provide comforting aromas during mourning.

Still, oils and herbs work best in conjunction with other preservation techniques like refrigeration or dry ice.

Enigma Embalming

This innovative method uses eco-friendly embalming fluids like essential oils made from plants, instead of harsh chemicals. The beauty of Enigma embalming fluid is that it’s readily available and easy to apply, just like the traditional method.

But keep in mind, every rose has its thorn. With Enigma, the process can be a tad slower than traditional methods due to its gentler nature. However, considering the balance it strikes between effective preservation and environmental responsibility, it’s undoubtedly worth considering.

Alkaline Hydrolysis or Water Cremation

Aquamation as an embalming alternative is an innovative process also known as alkaline hydrolysis or water cremation. The body is placed in a sealed chamber where heated water and sodium hydroxide circulate, dissolving tissues and leaving behind sterile liquid and powdered bone.

It’s more environmentally friendly than traditional methods, emitting fewer carbon emissions and using less energy. While it’s not yet legal everywhere for humans, 26 US states have already legalized it.

Many consider it one of the best pet burial options.

Natural Burial

Eco-friendly and cost-effective, green funeral alternatives for body preservation are rooted in respect for nature. By using biodegradable materials like wicker or bamboo caskets, natural burial allows you to return to the earth gracefully, nourishing the soil instead of polluting it. 

You’ll contribute to ecological conservation and promote sustainable funeral practices. Planning a natural burial can vary by region due to cultural and legal considerations, but the Green Burial Council can help guide you.

So, if you’re thinking about how to plan a natural burial, remember it’s a beautiful last act of kindness to our planet.

Benefits of Embalming Alternatives

If you’re environmentally conscious and want to leave a minimal ecological footprint even in your afterlife, then eco-friendly funeral practices and chemical-free body preservation methods may be just what you’re looking for.

Here are some of the benefits: 

• Reduced carbon footprint — You can greatly lessen your environmental impact, preserving our planet for future generations.
• Cost-effective — The cost of a green burial is significantly less than traditional funerals, making it easier for your family to cope financially.
• Personalization — Allow for a personalized and intimate ceremony, reflecting your unique life and values.
• Active participation — Make funeral preparation a meaningful, healing experience for the family by inviting them to be involved in the process.
• Eco-friendly funeral practices — With a focus on natural materials and processes, many eco-friendly practices can make the funeral greener than most.

Conclusion

True alternatives to embalming that align with values, beliefs, and budget exist. The best way to honor and preserve the memory of you or your loved ones isn’t limited to the conventional.

There’s a wide range of meaningful and lower-harm options for a more personalized and memorable farewell. The key is to make informed decisions, not only for the environment but also for yourself and your peace of mind. 

After all, the choices you make are a powerful reflection of a life lived and legacy left behind. If you must, venture beyond the traditional, and may you find the path that feels right for you.