Yes, Here is a wood toxicity chart
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in a nut shell tho do you really want any of it in your system?  when im grinding turning or milling its on me less its less then a min. of tool time (3M respirator )

Some take a while to bother you... I don't turn walnut any more, or mimosa/silk tree. Generally the stronger it smells, the worse it is for you...

robo hippy

Thanks for the link Ed.

Wise to use a respirator!
The chart of toxic woods should be something we all look at.
Even though you may not react initially, there are some reactions that take some time to start.  It depends on the immune system of the individual.  When there are quick reactions, it's easy to figure out the cause.  In the case of some folks I've cared for, it took a bit of digging and lots of questions to figure out their particular respiratory problems--triggered  from the woods they worked with.
Also some woods do harbor some bacteria and fungi that when inhaled--do not do good things in your lungs. in those instances most docs will miss the initial diagnosis because the onset isn't immediate--sometimes specific tests then antibiotics or antifungal agents are needed.  We (woodworkers) know that spalting is caused by the action of bacteria and fungi in the wood---bottom line:  Take care of your lungs!

Me and several friends found out that red-line spalt in sweet gum will put you in the hospital!!  Several other spalts and species of wood will do the same.  Several years ago a turner in Cal. was killed by Silky oak and another hospitalized by it. I turn 18" in front of an exaust fan for my sinuses ect.  Because of dust and lacquer spray as well.

I am a brand new member of this forum and relatively new to wood turning. When I just logged in and saw this topic, I couldn't believe it, the exact topic I need information on. As stated earlier, I am fairly new to wood turning. What turning I have done so far, has usually been done with me wearing a disposable mask. Unfortunately, in mid April, I became ill. Headaches, accompanied by neck pain and stiffness, fatigue and just generally not feeling well. To give a little background, I own some acreage, with a considerable amount of woods. The wood I have turned has almost exclusively been wood that I have salvaged in my woods. Dead trees or broken limbs that are down. The majority of the wood has probably been walnut, with some cherry, locust and ash. After seeing two different doctors, reading/researching and trying to recall my recent activities, it has been pretty much determined that I inhaled mold dust while turning wood. I felt very ill for about 12 weeks. Although I enjoy turning wood, I am afraid to go back to turning. I have been looking at respirators, mainly the 3M brand. But, I question if utilizing a respirator will prevent me from having similar problems in the future. I have been reading where wood dust in your eyes or on your skin can be hazardous too. I would like to hear from members on this forum about what protection devices they are using and their experiences. Has any one known of wood turners having problems, even though they are using a respirator? Again, I enjoy turning, but feel afraid to go back to turning. Any info is greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance.