Ancient Egyptians used natron, a natural salt, to preserve mummies for thousands of years by completely dehydrating the body.

Natron is a naturally occurring mineral salt found in the Wadi El Natrun valley in Egypt, composed primarily of sodium carbonate and sodium bicarbonate. These compounds are highly effective at absorbing moisture and killing bacteria, creating an alkaline environment that prevents microbial growth and stops the enzymatic breakdown of soft tissues.During mummification, internal organs were removed and the body was packed with natron for approximately 40 days. This specific duration was critical because it allowed the salt to draw out fluids through osmosis without making the skin brittle. Research from the University of York and the University of Zurich has confirmed that this precise chemical treatment was essential to preventing putrefaction.The preservation power of natron is evident in Pharaoh Ramses II, who died in 1213 BC. Despite being over 3,200 years old, his remains are so well-preserved that facial features and hair are clearly identifiable. Modern CT scans of mummies reveal that even delicate structures like the dura mater and arterial walls survive when treated with this mineral mixture.Beyond dehydration, natron dissolved body fats and acted as a mild bleach, helping preserve the skin's structural integrity. This sophisticated chemical knowledge allowed Egyptians to achieve preservation levels that continue to fascinate scientists today. Natron was standard practice during the New Kingdom period, roughly 1550 BC to 1070 BC.