What Are Trichomes and What Role Do They Play?

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Nature is an extremely complex being that creates even more complex elements and creatures… and let me tell you right now, a little cannabis plant falls perfectly into that complexity. There are many different things going on with cannabis at any given time, like how it has about 7 different parts to itself. But today’s main focus is on its trichomes and what they offer when it comes to your experience.

It is safe to say that you can find trichomes on any plant, it’s not exclusive to just weed. The word trichome, means hair and comes from Ancient Greek. Trichomes are the thin outgrowths found on plants, which could be hairs or scales depending on what kind of plant we are talking about. In weed’s case, it’s hair. Trichomes are a translucent white and cover the hemp flower, making it look sugary sweet! These trichomes are responsible for producing terpenes and greatly affect THC and CBD levels in each plant.

It wouldn’t be a true part of a cannabis plant if there weren’t multiple types that do various things, now would it? For Trichomes, there are about 3 different types that come in 3 different sizes and levels of abundances: Bulbous Trichomes, Capitate-Sessile and Capitate-Stalked Trichomes.

Bulbous Trichomes are some of the smallest types of trichome found on the cannabis plant. It is said to be almost invisible to the naked eye. Although you mustn’t judge it by its size, for it is known to still have the ability to produce powerful cannabinoids. Making this trichome a key player in your experience for its effect on THC and CBD levels. The same could also be said for Capitate-Sessile. It is just as small as its counterpart, but can be a bit more powerful since its abundance is far greater than Bulbous ones. All-and-all, making Capitate-Stalked Trichomes the most abundant one out of the three. Being anywhere from 50 to 500 micrometers (Chambers).

These trichomes are some of the most valuable parts of the plant, since they greatly influence terpene levels. In case you’re not sure, terpenes go hand in hand when it comes to THC and can affect the psychedelic aspect of your experience. Due to their abilities, terpene levels and influence, trichomes are often saved and are repurposed into something else. They are often harvested and used to make anything resin-like. They can be used to create products like waxes or oils.

As Morrissey once said, “Such a little thing makes such a big difference.” It’s the little things that make up a cannabis plant that make it a marvel of nature, and should be as appreciated for its abilities.

Source: Prospiant

Images: Wikimedia Commons, Lenny Montana