Ancient Egyptian mummy head provides first molecular proof of aloe in embalming
An interdisciplinary team at Marburg University published new research in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences linking aloe to ancient Egyptian embalming practices.
Study combines chemistry and history
Researchers merged modern natural product analysis with Egyptology and pharmacy history to investigate preservation materials. Their study examines how plant-based substances were used in the complex mummification process.
Previous chemical findings listed many resins
Earlier analyses identified coniferous resins, tars, pistachio resins, and animal fats within the embalming mixtures. Evidence of exotic plant resins like elemi or dammar had also been found before this work.
Aloe traces found in 2700-year-old head
The new findings reveal traces of aloe in a mummy head dating back approximately 2,700 years. This discovery answers questions about which specific plant species were actually used by ancient Egyptians.
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