What is "night soil" primarily used for?

"Night soil" refers specifically to human fecal material that is collected and utilized as a fertilizer in agricultural practices. In many parts of the world, particularly before modern sanitation facilities were developed, night soil was a common method for disposing of human waste. It was often collected from latrines or privies at night, hence the name, and then used to enrich soil for growing crops.

The use of night soil as fertilizer is tied to its nutrient content, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are essential for plant growth. When properly processed and handled, night soil can contribute to soil fertility and agricultural productivity. The practice reflects traditional agricultural methods in various cultures and holds historical significance in understanding how societies managed human waste before the advent of modern waste treatment systems.