Lye from human ashes?

I have a friend who requested to be cremated when they died and their ashes planted with a tree. I am a bit concerned that the ashes will not be good for the health of the tree.


Will ashes from human remains create an alkaline solution when mixed with water?




Human bones would likely be chemically similar to any other mammal bones. It is sold as fertilizer (bone meal), primarily a source for phosphorus. It will also contain other elements like calcium. It should not be a problem, especially after mixing with soil.


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