Mummies Smell 'Pleasant,' Study Finds Ancient Egyptian Embalming Scents

A group of researchers led by Cecilia Bembibre from University College London has recently conducted a groundbreaking study on the odors emitted by well-preserved Egyptian mummies, revealing their surprisingly pleasant scents, contrary to long-held beliefs.

The Mummy's Perfume

Contrary to popular belief, the study found that well-preserved Egyptian mummies emit pleasantly fragrant scents, described by the researchers as "woody," "spicy," and "sweet," with floral notes possibly derived from the pine and juniper resins used during the embalming process. This revelation challenges the outdated notion of mummified bodies being associated with foul odors.

The interdisciplinary study utilized chemical analysis alongside a panel of human evaluators to assess the distinct odors emanating from nine mummies, some of which date back as far as 5,000 years. The mummies were sourced from both storage and display locations within the Egyptian Museum in Cairo. The research, published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society, aimed to systematically explore the scents of mummies, a subject of fascination for both the public and the academic community.

The Mummification Process

The mummification process, traditionally reserved for pharaohs and nobility, employed various oils, waxes, and balms not only for preservation but also for imparting pleasant scents to the bodies. This practice was deeply rooted in the belief that pleasant aromas represented purity and divinity, while foul odors were associated with corruption and decay.

The researchers used advanced instruments to measure and quantify the air molecules emitted from the mummies and their sarcophagi, thereby avoiding any direct contact with the remains. This non-invasive method allowed the team to assess the state of preservation and the surrounding environment without compromising the mummies, providing valuable insights for conservators, curators, and archaeologists alike.