A substance in embalming fluid that retains moisture in the body is known as what?

The term that describes a substance in embalming fluid that retains moisture in the body is humectant. Humectants are important in the embalming process because they help to maintain moisture levels in tissues, preventing them from drying out during and after the embalming procedure. This moisture retention contributes to a more natural appearance of the body during the viewing and helps to preserve the body over time.

Preservatives, while integral to the embalming process, primarily function to inhibit decomposition and microbial activity rather than retaining moisture. Anticoagulants are used in embalming fluids to prevent the coagulation of blood, ensuring better fluid distribution and drainage during the embalming process but do not serve the purpose of retaining moisture in tissues. Emulsifiers are agents that help to mix oil and water, aiding in uniform distribution of fluids but are not specifically designed to retain moisture in biological tissues.

Thus, humectant is recognized as the correct term for a substance that retains moisture within the context of embalming fluids.