Quicklime: The Misunderstood Substance

Quicklime is a substance that is often given a bad reputation. It is a white, alkaline compound that can burn your skin and cause respiratory problems if inhaled. However, quicklime is not all bad. In fact, it has a rich history and some unexpected uses.

The Good

If you’re ever in a production of “Little Shop of Horrors,” quicklime can save you from a plant that’s gotten out of control. Just sprinkle some quicklime on the ground around the plant and watch it wither away. It’s also great for keeping mosquitoes away. Just burn some quicklime in a fire and watch those pesky bugs fly away. Who needs bug spray when you have quicklime?

Quicklime can also be used for cooking. While it’s not edible, it can be used to make a traditional Mexican dish called “nixtamalized corn.” This involves soaking corn in water and quicklime to remove the hull and make it easier to grind into masa (dough). Sorry, vegans – this process also loosens the hull from the corn using the calcium hydroxide so you’re going to have to find a different way to make your weekly nachos.

The Bad

Unfortunately, quicklime also has its drawbacks. It can cause painful chemical burns if it comes into contact with your skin. In some cases, these burns can be so severe that amputation is necessary. Quicklime can also cause respiratory problems if it is inhaled. This can lead to coughing, wheezing, and even pneumonia. So, if you decide to use quicklime for anything, make sure to use protective gear, such as gloves and a mask.

The Ugly

In a truly horrifying tale, quicklime was used by killers to dispose of bodies as far back as the 1500s. When quicklime is mixed with water or exposed to air, it heats up and creates a chemical reaction that breaks down organic material. This makes it the perfect substance for those looking to quickly and efficiently dispose of human remains. Just ask the notorious serial killer, H.H. Holmes, who used quicklime to dissolve bodies in his “murder castle” in the late 1800s.

In conclusion, quicklime is a substance that has been both helpful and harmful throughout history. While it can be useful for keeping bugs away or making a batch of nixtamalized corn, it is also dangerous if mishandled. And, of course, we cannot forget about its dark history as a tool for murderers and serial killers. So be careful when handling this misunderstood substance and never underestimate its power.