Modern embalming began in the early 1700’s. A german embalmer used alcohol as a preservative and injected a fluid into the arteries. But his secret of preserving color and form died with him. In later years, other embalmers would continue to inject oils into the arteries.
Embalming was used in the United States during the Civil War to make it easier to send home bodies of soldiers. Modern embalmers remove body liquids, and then inject a fluid containing formaldehyde, mercuric chloride, zinc chloride, and alcohol.
A person who wishes to enter the embalming profession usually enrolls in a school of mortuary science. He then serves an apprenticeship and must pass a state board examination to receive a license to practice as a mortician.