Unlocking the Secrets of Ancient Natron Salt Mummification

In the pursuit of understanding ancient civilizations, researchers have long been fascinated by the process of mummification. One of the most intriguing methods used was natron salt mummification, a technique employed by ancient cultures to preserve their dead. Recently, scientists have made significant progress in uncovering the secrets behind this ancient practice.

The discovery began with Ron Oldfield and Jana Jones, who analyzed resin-impregnated fibers found in a previously unknown prehistoric civilization. They found that the mixture consisted of pine resin, plant gum or sugar, aromatic plant extract, plant wax, and natural petroleum, all heated together to create a complex toffee-like residue.

To further understand the composition of these embalming mixtures, University of York biochemist Stephen Buckley was brought in. With his expertise in analyzing ancient organic compounds, he used mass spectrometry to identify the ingredients. This breakthrough marked only the 12th time that biochemical analyses had been conducted on such substances.

The team was fortunate enough to collect 92 samples from the excavation site, which were then analyzed for textile and resin content. Micro and macro photography techniques were also employed to gain a better understanding of the mummification process. Ron Oldfield, an award-winning microscopist, worked alongside the researchers to examine the textiles under the microscope.

The discovery not only shed light on ancient mummification practices but also provided insight into a previously unknown prehistoric civilization. The excavation site consisted of small cemeteries, with some containing as few as 50 graves and others boasting over 200. In total, around 600 graves were discovered.

This groundbreaking research has opened up new avenues for understanding the cultures and practices of ancient civilizations. By unlocking the secrets of natron salt mummification, scientists can gain a deeper appreciation for the ingenuity and resourcefulness of our ancestors.

Natron salt mummification