You might think laundry detergent and ancient Egypt have nothing in common but surprisingly they are connected through natron a natural salt found in the ancient Egyptian desert

The Egyptians used natron to dry out internal organs and embalm their dead Natron was an ideal desiccant its sharp crystals would absorb moisture and help preserve the body for the afterlife Today natron is still found in some laundry detergents helping to clean your clothes

Prompt:
What seemingly unrelated household item has a surprising historical connection to ancient Egyptian mummification practices?