If you're interested in cannabis, you've probably already heard of trichomes. But do you know exactly what they are? And above all, what are they used for? Should you, as a simple CBD consumer, worry about them? We explain everything here, from what they are to their vital role, as well as the different types of trichomes.
Cannabis trichomes: a brief overview
Trichomes are small resinous glands located mainly on the surface of the hemp plant's flower (they can also be found on some leaves). They are sometimes called buds. They look like small growths, and to the naked eye, they can resemble mini crystals.
Good to know: trichomes are also found on many other plants, not just cannabis plants.
Do all hemp plants have trichomes? The answer is yes! However, although all cannabis plants do have trichomes, they are not distributed or as dense on the flowers. This depends on genetics, but also on growing methods and conditions. And also on the stage of development.
For example, some varieties naturally have more trichomes, which is particularly the case with plants grown indoors or in greenhouses (meaning inside), where growing conditions are fully mastered and controlled. It should be noted that a plant harvested too early will have fewer trichomes, and they will be of lower quality.
The different types of trichomes
Oh yes, it would be too simple if there were only one single type of trichome!
Firstly, we distinguish glandular trichomes, unicellular trichomes, and cystolithic trichomes. Without going into botanical details, simply remember that glandular trichomes are essential to the quality of the CBD flower, so they are the ones that will interest us!
So-called glandular trichomes produce a lot of cannabinoids, including CBD, as well as terpenes. In other words, they are therefore linked to the potential benefits of CBD as well as the flower's aromatic profile.
Secondly, glandular trichomes can be subdivided into three types or three families. We agree, they all look alike at first glance, nevertheless they do not have the same role:
Bulbous trichomes
Microscopic and invisible to the naked eye, these trichomes produce little to no resin, and therefore no cannabinoids. They are found all over the surface of the plant.
Sessile capitate trichomes
A glandular head, but not really a stalk. They are found mostly on the leaves of the hemp plant, and contain a little resin. They are slightly larger than bulbous trichomes, and slightly smaller than stalked capitate trichomes.
Stalked capitate trichomes
These are the largest of the glandular trichomes, and they are the ones that contain the most resin. They can be seen with the naked eye, at the end of a stalk, spherical in shape like little bubbles, on the flowers of the plant.
It is therefore stalked capitate trichomes that interest us, because they are responsible for the terpenes and cannabinoids.
Just a small clarification: these different types of trichomes do not correspond to the progressive stages of a single trichome evolving. But their appearance occurs gradually following the natural development of the plant, and they coexist on the hemp plant. They are distinct trichomes, each with its own function.
What cannabis trichomes are used for: a central role
It is undeniable that there is a link between trichomes and CBD quality, and we are going to explain why.
These small glands can be seen as cannabinoid production factories (CBD, but also THC, CBG, etc.), as well as terpenes, and flavonoids. Logically, the more trichomes a hemp flower has on its surface, the more concentrated it will be in active ingredients.
Thus, you can visually assess the potential richness of the plant. If you see a good quantity of trichomes (meaning stalked capitate trichomes if you've been following), it means that this CBD flower is probably high quality. Other criteria to consider: well-formed head, shiny layer, slightly sticky to the touch. If you notice all this, it means that the flower was harvested at maturity and grown under good conditions. And that the CBD will be high quality!
For your information, know that trichomes also play a role as a natural shield for the plant. Sticky, and concentrated in aromas, they repel insects and certain herbivores that might be tempted to taste the plant. In addition, they protect the hemp from UV rays, drought, and fungi.
In short, without trichomes, you have little chance of having a quality CBD flower, the same goes for CBD oil, and all other CBD products, such as gummies, syrups, capsules, resins, etc.
