By: Aaron L. Meroniuk

Humectants

A humectant is a substance that is used to keep things moist. It is the opposite of a desiccant, whose purpose is to keep things dry. Humectants are hygroscopic substances.

It is often a molecule with several hydrophilic groups, most often hydroxyl groups, but amines, and carboxyl groups sometimes esterified can be encountered as well; the affinity to form hydrogen bonds with molecules of water is crucial.

What is a humectant?

In embalming humectants are usually added to a solution in cases where the body is dehydrated or emaciated to help restore that tissue to a more natural and hydrated appearance.

Humectants and Embalming

It is important to note that humectants are a accessory embalming chemical which modifies or softens the action of the embalming fluid and acts as an internal tissue filler in as mentioned emaciated cases.

It can also be used externally being massages which helps prevent surface dehydration of the tissues and skin.

Humectants and Embalming

I find the actual action of what a humectant does very interesting. As we have learned about hypertonic and hypotonic solutions, I now know that if I am using a humectant on an emaciated or dehydrated body, the solution will need to be more hypotonic in order for the solution to get into the cells and tissue spaces. Of course the opposite would be a body with a edema I would use a hypertonic solution. Humectants serve as a very important step in restoring tissue to a more natural state and appearance.

Humectants are important in Chemistry because of the chemical process that takes place when they are used. We know that in a solution containing humectants that osmosis will take place as hydrogen bonds with molecules of water. Once this takes place the tissues are filled out and should appear less dehydrated. Of course this depends on many other factors as well within the deceased body. Medications, (Chemotherapy), a cause of death, time between death and embalming are all important extrinsic factors that must be taken into account.

Why are humectants

important to this class?

Chemistry provides the embalmer the knowledge and understanding of how humectants work. How they work inside the human body and assist in preserving the deceased loved one.

Careful attention should always be given when using a humectant and amount in a solution. One does not want to over capacitate the tissues. Its always very important to follow the instructions and always the extrinsic and intrinsic factors of the body

Chemistry and

Humectants

• Wikipedia.org- Definition of a humectant and chemical reaction

Hydrochemical.com- insight into humectant process in the human body and tissues

Embalming History, Theory and Practice- 5th Edition Robert E. Mayer

Works Cited