Published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society, this research dives nose-first into embalming and preservation. Unlike previous studies that primarily examined mummies in European museums, this research provides a rare opportunity to analyse specimens in their country of origin at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, where some of history’s most famous mummies reside.
Using a multidisciplinary approach, the team employed gas chromatography-mass spectrometry-olfactometry (GC-MS-O) —a fancy way of saying “high-tech smell detectors”—to analyse the chemical components responsible for the smells emanating from the mummified bodies.
They also conducted panel-based sensory evaluations to categorise the perceived odours. The results showed that most mummies emitted a combination of "woody," "spicy," and "sweet" scents, likely originating from embalming substances such as resins, oils, and aromatic spices used during the mummification process.
These findings align with historical records describing the use of pine, cedar, juniper resins, and myrrh, frankincense, and beeswax to preserve bodies for the afterlife. Basically, ancient Egypt smelled like a very fancy spa!
The study also identified specific compounds such as lactones and phenolic elements, which may help distinguish between different embalming techniques used across various historical periods.
In addition to uncovering ancient embalming secrets, the study sheds light on modern conservation practices. The team discovered that many of the mummies had been treated with a "pest oil" composed of natural ingredients like clove, camphor, basil, and cinnamon oils to prevent insect damage. However, researchers were surprised to find traces of synthetic pesticides despite no official use documentation. This unexpected discovery raises questions about undocumented conservation interventions and potential health risks for museum staff and visitors.
Another key finding was the difference in VOC composition between mummies kept in display cases and those stored in museum archives. Mummies in sealed display cases exhibited more volatile compounds, likely due to trapped scents accumulated over time. Meanwhile, those in storage had lower-intensity odours and fewer detectable compounds, possibly due to better ventilation and exposure to open air—proving that even in death, fresh air makes a difference!
The study has significant implications for both scientific research and museum practices. Understanding the chemical makeup helps museums protect these relics while offering new ways for visitors to experience history.
As scientists continue to explore the sensory dimensions of the past, one thing is clear—the history of ancient Egypt is not just something we can see and touch but also smell.