Abstract: A method for and a preservative composition for use in embalming a dead human body to temporarily maintain a desirable state of non-decomposition. The method comprising the steps of draining blood from the circulatory system of a dead body; and injecting a preservative composition into the drained circulatory system of the dead human body. The preservative composition consisting essentially of from 10 to 40% of each of the following components: a material selected from the group consisting of ascorbic acid, the sodium and potassium salts thereof and mixtures thereof; a material selected form the group consisting of citric acid, the sodium and potassium salts thereof and mixtures thereof; a material selected from the group consisting of sodium carbonate, potassium carbonate and mixtures thereof; and material selected from the group consisting of sodium and potassium sulfite, bisulfite, and metabisulfite and mixtures thereof.