Burning wood is a staple for heating and cooking, but not all wood is created equal. Some species are not only harmful to burn but can also pose severe health risks due to the toxins they release into the air. Whether you’re maintaining a cozy fireplace or planning a backyard bonfire, it’s critical to know which woods to avoid. Here are 15 toxic woods you should never burn, and why.
1. Yew
The yew tree, with its lush green foliage and red berries, might look harmless, but its wood contains toxic alkaloids called taxines. When burned, these toxins are released into the air, causing respiratory issues and, in extreme cases, poisoning. Avoid using yew as firewood to protect your health.
2. Oleander
Oleander is a popular ornamental plant, but every part of it, including the wood, contains potent cardiac glycosides. Burning oleander releases toxins that can lead to nausea, dizziness, and heart irregularities. Even handling this plant’s wood can irritate the skin, making it one of the most dangerous woods to burn.
3. Manchineel
Nicknamed “The Tree of Death,” the manchineel tree is infamous for its toxicity. Burning its wood releases deadly compounds like phorbol, which can cause severe respiratory distress and skin burns. Even standing under this tree during rainfall can be hazardous due to its toxic sap.
4. Boxwood
While boxwood is often used for hedges, it contains alkaloids that are harmful when burned. The smoke can irritate your eyes and throat, and sensitive individuals may experience dermatitis from handling it. Keep this wood far away from your fire pit.
5. Rhododendron and Azalea
These flowering shrubs contain grayanotoxins that remain hazardous when burned. The smoke from rhododendron or azalea wood can lead to nausea, respiratory issues, and even neurological symptoms. Handle with care and avoid burning at all costs.
6. Cherry Laurel
Cherry laurel wood contains cyanogenic glycosides, which release hydrogen cyanide when burned. Exposure to this gas can cause symptoms ranging from dizziness to severe respiratory distress. Never use cherry laurel as firewood.
7. Black Locust
Known for its durability, black locust wood might seem like a good option for burning. However, it produces dense smoke and high levels of creosote, which can increase the risk of chimney fires and irritate the respiratory system.
8. Angel’s Trumpet
The striking flowers of angel’s trumpet conceal its dangerous nature. The wood contains toxic tropane alkaloids, and burning it releases fumes that can cause confusion, hallucinations, and seizures. Avoid this plant altogether for your safety.
9. Buckthorn
Buckthorn species produce smoke that irritates the eyes and respiratory system. While it’s not as deadly as some other toxic woods, the discomfort caused by burning buckthorn makes it an unwise choice for firewood.
10. Poison Ivy, Poison Oak, and Poison Sumac
These plants contain urushiol, an irritant that causes allergic reactions. Burning them releases this compound into the air, which can trigger severe respiratory issues and skin irritation. Always check your firewood to ensure none of these plants are mixed in.
11. Laburnum
Known as “The Golden Chain Tree,” laburnum contains cytisine, a toxic alkaloid. When burned, the smoke can cause symptoms like dizziness, vomiting, and nausea. Physical contact with the wood can also cause allergic reactions, making it doubly dangerous.
12. Certain Eucalyptus Species
Eucalyptus wood is rich in oils that can create intense smoke and creosote buildup, increasing the risk of chimney fires. The strong aroma from burning eucalyptus can also lead to nausea and respiratory discomfort, particularly in enclosed spaces.
13. Hemlock
Hemlock wood produces fumes that can irritate the eyes, throat, and lungs when burned. The smoke can trigger coughing and difficulty breathing, making it a poor choice for any firewood application.
14. Spurge Laurel
This shrub’s wood contains toxins that become airborne when burned, leading to respiratory distress and skin irritation. Spurge laurel should never be used for burning or handling without caution.
15. Ivy
Though not commonly used as firewood, ivy can sometimes end up in burn piles. Burning ivy releases smoke that irritates the respiratory system, especially for those with allergies or asthma. Keep ivy away from your fire to avoid unnecessary discomfort.
Burn Safely, Stay Healthy
While firewood is a practical resource for heating and cooking, not all woods are safe to burn. Toxic species can release harmful chemicals, endangering your respiratory health and even posing life-threatening risks. Before starting your next fire, ensure the wood you’re using is safe to burn. When in doubt, stick to trusted hardwoods like oak or maple for a safer and cleaner burn.
A former park ranger and wildlife conservationist, Lisa’s passion for survival started with her deep connection to nature. Raised on a small farm in northern Wisconsin, she learned how to grow her own food, raise livestock, and live off the land. Lisa is our dedicated Second Amendment news writer and also focuses on homesteading, natural remedies, and survival strategies. Lisa aims to help others live more sustainably and prepare for the unexpected.