King Richard the Lionheart’s heart undergoes forensic exam. Scanning electron microscopy identified pollen grains from myrtle, mint and other known embalming plants, as well as poplar and bellflower, which were in bloom when the king died. Elemental analysis turned up high concentrations of calcium, suggesting that lime may have been used as a preservative. The scientists also found bacteria, although none could be related to Richard’s cause of death.King Richard the Lionheart’s heart undergoes forensic exam. Scanning electron microscopy identified pollen grains from myrtle, mint and other known embalming plants, as well as poplar and bellflower, which were in bloom when the king died. Elemental analysis turned up high concentrations of calcium, suggesting that lime may have been used as a preservative. The scientists also found bacteria, although none could be related to Richard’s cause of death.
King Richard the Lionheart’s heart undergoes forensic exam. Scanning electron microscopy identified pollen grains from myrtle, mint and other known embalming plants, as well as poplar and bellflower, which were in bloom when the king died. Elemental analysis turned up high concentrations of calcium, suggesting that lime may have been used as a preservative. The scientists also found bacteria, although none could be related to Richard’s cause of death.