An embalming process called mummification. Much of the process was based on naturally formed desert mummies that had been preserved by desiccation of the body by the dry desert air. However the Egyptians accelerated the process by removing all of the organs (e.g. brain, heart, liver, intestines) and placing the ones considered important in separate jars, other organs (e.g. brain) were just discarded as they served no known function. Once the body was prepared the body cavities were packed with linen and fragrant materials like frankincense and myrrh and then the body was completely wrapped in linen. Salt was packed around the body to accelerate the desiccation process, then removed so it would not damage the finished mummie.