The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 12 letter word PRESERVATIVE
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Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "it prolongs life" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case it prolongs life = preservative.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does PRESERVATIVE mean?
PRESERVATIVE noun- Any agent, natural or artificial that acts to preserve, especially when added to food.
- Tending to preserve.