What happens if you bury a body without embalming?

Burying a body without embalming means that the natural process of decomposition will begin much more quickly, potentially necessitating a quicker burial and limiting options for public viewing or extended funeral services.

Accelerated Decomposition

Without the chemical preservation provided by embalming, the body's natural decomposition process accelerates. This is a primary difference from an embalmed burial, where chemicals are used to temporarily halt or slow this process.

The Natural Process

Once life ceases, the body's cells begin to break down, and bacteria within and outside the body become active. Embalming fluid, a mixture of chemicals often including formaldehyde, works to disinfect and temporarily preserve the body, slowing this natural deterioration. Without it, these natural processes unfold at their normal pace, leading to more rapid physical changes.

Implications for Burial Timing

Due to the quicker rate of decomposition, a burial without embalming may need to occur more swiftly to prevent significant deterioration. This often means arrangements for the funeral and burial must be made within a shorter timeframe, typically within 24 to 48 hours, depending on various factors like local climate and regulations.

Impact on Funeral Services and Viewing

Skipping embalming has significant implications for how funeral services, particularly those involving public viewing, can be conducted.

Open-Casket Viewing

If you plan to have an open-casket viewing or wake, choosing not to embalm may affect how long the body can be displayed. The rapid onset of decomposition means that an open-casket viewing might be impractical or very brief. Some funeral homes may not offer open-casket viewing for unembalmed bodies beyond a very short window, or they may require alternative cooling methods.

Wake and Visitation Period

For families wishing to have an extended wake or visitation period, embalming is often a prerequisite to maintain the body's appearance. Without it, the body's condition will change more noticeably over time, which can impact the comfort and experience of those attending.

Legal and Practical Considerations

While embalming is not legally required in most states for immediate burial, choosing to forgo it introduces practical considerations for funeral arrangements.

Quicker Arrangements

• Expedited Timeline: Funeral homes will typically advise a faster burial or cremation to accommodate the natural progression of the body's state.
• Refrigeration: The body will likely need to be refrigerated until the time of burial to slow decomposition as much as possible without chemicals.
• Logistics: All necessary paperwork, cemetery arrangements, and service planning must be completed efficiently.

Alternative Options

For those choosing burial without embalming, options often include:

• Immediate Burial: The body is buried shortly after death, often without a public viewing.
• Closed-Casket Service: A funeral service or wake can still be held, but the casket remains closed.
• Green Burial: Many green burial practices do not involve embalming, aligning with a desire for a more natural return to the earth. Learn more about green burial options at reputable sources like the Green Burial Council.

Key Differences: Embalmed vs. Unembalmed Burial

Understanding the fundamental differences can help in making an informed decision.

Choosing burial without embalming is a personal decision that aligns with certain preferences regarding natural processes, environmental impact, or cost. It necessitates careful planning and swift action from the family and funeral service provider.