Trichomes, the friend with benefits
Trichomes are tiny, hair-like outgrowths that cover cannabis and hemp flowers. they produce the valuable terpenes and cannabinoids like THC and CBD, that drive cannabis and hemp markets. Trichomes protect the plant from external stressors and contain resinous glands that create cannabinoids and terpenes that give the marijuana plant its unique features and effects.
The structure of resin glands leads professionals to believe that trichomes can act as a pest-deterrent and defence mechanism via their oily nature and the production of chemical compounds. Fruits, vegetables, and flowers all produce trichomes as well. However, specific glands in cannabis have been praised for their unique psychoactive and medicinal benefits
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Trichomes give cannabis buds a crystal-like shine and can sometimes make them sticky to the touch. Within the glandular trichomes, there are three main types: bulbous, capitate-sessile and capitate-stalked. Non-glandular trichomes are called cystoliths. Bulbous trichomes are tiny bulbs that are located throughout the plant, but are so small they can't be seen with eyes. Capitate-sessile trichomes are more abundant than bulbous trichomes, found on the underside of the sugar leaves and fan leaves, but are usually only visible through a microscope. Capitate-stalked trichomes are shaped like mushrooms and contain a large trichome head at the top of the stalk. These are the trichomes that gives cannabis its unique shine and appeal.