A
clearing agent and mounting solution for
microscopy is disclosed comprising (a) trichloroethanol, (b) optionally,
trichloroacetic acid, (c) optionally,
glycerol and (d) optionally, water, where the
refractive index of the solution is greater than or equal to about 1.3810. The solution can further comprise a C1-C6
alcohol, other acids, and / or a
stain. The solution can also comprise derivatives and / or analogs of 2,2,2-trichloroethanol and / or
trichloroacetic acid. Also disclosed is a method of preparing specimens for
microscopy comprising (a) applying a specimen to a
microscope slide or a
cuvette, (b) applying a quantity of the above solution sufficient to
mount the specimen, and (c) optionally applying a
cover slip. The solution can be used effectively with stains or dyes, and with fresh, partially dry or dried materials, and for temporary or semi-permanent to permanent mounting. The solution can be used with specimens or tissues / cells / parts originating from animals, poultry,
livestock, humans, higher plants, yeasts, molds, microorganisms, insects, mites, or reptiles.