Natural Toxins in Wood Toys
Visit my shop. Wood is a widely used material known for its versatility and durability. However, not everyone may know that all wood contains natural toxins known as extractives. Trees produce these substances to defend against pests, fungi, and other threats. Extractives can be found in hardwoods like oak and maple and softwoods like pine and cedar. Common types of extractives found in wood include tannins, lignins, and resins. Tannins are responsible for the astringent taste in tea and are present in many types of wood. Lignins provide structural support to wood fibers and are found in various plant matter. Resins are sticky substances trees produce to seal wounds and protect against insects and fungi. While natural toxins in wood are generally not harmful to humans in small amounts, they can cause problems for people with specific sensitivities or allergies. For instance, some individuals may be allergic to the tannins or other extractives found in certain types of wood, leading to ...