Ancient Embalming to modern machines: the evolution of Organ preservation through Anatomical Techniques
Amar Nath, 2Dattu N. Bandapalle, and 3Mangala Dattatray Bandapalle
1,2Department of Rachanasharir, Parul Institute of Ayurved , Parul University, Vadodara - 391760 (India) Contact number-9140611985 1Email id- dramarnath85@gmail.com 2Email ID: bandapalle.dattu18576@paruluniversity.ac.in 3Master of Public Health (MPH), Jay Jalaram Ayurved College, Shivpuri - 388713 (India) 3Email ID: mangalabandapalle23@gmail.com
ABSTRACT
The preservation of the human body has fascinated civilizations for millennia, linking spirituality, medicine, and science. Ancient cultures such as those of Egypt and India developed unique embalming practices, while modern anatomy introduced chemical methods. This review explores embalming techniques described in Ayurvedic texts, especially Sushruta Samhita, alongside Egyptian mummification and Western advances. Literature from classical sources, historical accounts, and modern scientific studies was critically analyzed.Sushruta described cadaver preservation by immersion in flowing water after removal of hair and nails, followed by gradual dissection for anatomical study. Egyptians employed natron, resins, and oils for long-term preservation with strong religious significance. In the 19th century, the discovery of formaldehyde enabled effective anatomical embalming and dissection. The 20th century introduced organ-specific static cold storage for transplantation, later complemented by Thiel embalming for surgical training and cryopreservation for cellular and organ-level preservation. Modern advances include machine perfusion, normothermic preservation, and cryoprotective agents, bridging anatomy, surgery, and biotechnology. From Ayurveda and Egyptian traditions to modern transplantation science, embalming reflects humanity’s evolving effort to preserve the body for spiritual, educational, and clinical purposes