Aruera

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Lithraea molleoides is a tree native to South America, especially in Argentina, Uruguay, Bolivia, and the Cerrado vegetation of Brazil

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Lithraea molleoides is a tree native to South America, especially in Argentina, Uruguay, Bolivia, and the Cerrado vegetation of Brazil. The plant is commonly considered unsuitable for landscaping, as it is a poisonous tree; it produces volatile substances that can spread through contact with the leaves, droplets, or its pollen. These substances, which include allergenic compounds such as urushiol, may cause general allergic sensitivity, skin disease, fever, and visual problems upon contact. Planting this tree where it can be accessible to the general public is therefore strongly discouraged. To ensure safety when handling this wood in wandmaking or other applications, it is crucial to use appropriate protective gear such as gloves, masks, and goggles. Additionally, working in a well-ventilated space can help minimize exposure to any harmful vapors.

Due to the contact poison found in this plant, it is very rarely used in wandmaking, and where it is, it is more usually as a small piece of well-varnished detail wood. On those rare occasions, it is used as a wand wood; on its own, it is consistently well varnished to prevent dangerous allergenic reactions and must be well tended and regularly varnished to ensure this. When used in a wand with a venomous core (such as Alicante Venom), the whole of the wand must be varnished, regardless of whether there is another wood present, as the magic of the venom mingles with the danger of the wood to create one almost toxic to its bearer if not correctly insulated. To further ensure safety, any shavings, dust, or waste generated during handling or crafting should be disposed of properly. It is recommended to collect the waste material in a sealed container and dispose of it in a hazardous waste facility. This will help prevent accidental exposure and environmental contamination.

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