What is the primary purpose of embalming?

The primary purpose of embalming is to preserve the body and reduce decay. This process involves the use of chemical substances that disinfect, clean, and preserve the body, significantly slowing down the natural decomposition process. Embalming is crucial for funeral services, especially when there is a delay between the time of death and the funeral or burial, allowing for adequate time for viewing and honoring the deceased.

While enhancing the appearance of the body and preparing it for burial can be associated outcomes of embalming, these are secondary to the essential goal of preservation. The preservation of the body using embalming techniques ensures that it remains in a condition suitable for viewing and ceremonial purposes, but it is the core objective of preventing decay that defines the practice.