Replies

1. 
   jonsherryl | Nov 13, 2003 03:33pm | #1

   007, laburnum contains a poisonous alkaloid (cytisine) which is found in all parts of the plant, but primarily in the seeds and foliage. Some rodents will eat the bark and twigs...so, apparently it isn't drop-dead lethal to all animal life.

   Just the same, though, I'd be very careful with this wood. If you're going to turn it, wear a respirator and keep your skin covered. And most definitely don't make anything that is toy or food related out of it.

1. 
   user-274461 | Nov 13, 2003 07:14pm | #3

   Jon,

   Good advice, thanks.

2. 
   jako17 | Nov 13, 2003 04:55pm | #2

   I have turned a lot of laburnum over the years. I have found that it seems to irritate my respiratory system and skin similar to some tropical woods.Not really badly but enough to treat it as a potential problem and once sensitized who knows.Turning dry wood and sanding I use a mask, long sleeves and dust collection.I also clean up afterwards.

1. 
   user-274461 | Nov 13, 2003 07:19pm | #4

   Jako,

   Thanks for the insights.  Sounds like it is a mild to moderate irritant but certainly not deadly.  I'll take the same precautions and if I have a stronger reaction, I'll do another posting.

3. 
   4DThinker | Nov 13, 2003 10:59pm | #5

   Keep in mind that different people have different reactions to irritants.  I've never been bothered by any wood I've turned or sanded.  But I get at least one student each year who breaks into hives or worse while sanding anything from walnut to rosewood.  And I have a student right now that had to drop the class altogether because he couldn't tollerate ANY fine wood dust.

   So most people don't find Laburnum dangerous.  But you might.  Be careful.

   4DThinker 

1. 
   user-274461 | Nov 14, 2003 12:53am | #6

   Good point - I will watch closely for any reactions.