Trichomes

Trichomes are the tiny, glandular resinous hairs protruding from cannabis flowers, leaves, stems and stalks. Visible to the naked eye, trichomes present as translucent bulbous resin glands giving cannabis buds their characteristic sticky, dewy frosty appearance. Trichomes function as chemical production factories secreting and storing many of the primary bioactive compounds that imbue cannabis with potency, aromas, flavors, and effects. They contain and emit the fragrant essential oils called terpenes primarily responsible for aroma and taste. Most importantly, trichomes synthesize and accumulate major cannabinoids such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) that interact with our endocannabinoid system to generate cannabis' signature euphoric and therapeutic effects. As a result, flower with heavier visible trichome concentrations typically proves more potent and flavorful when consumed. Trichomes also serve to deter insects and grazing animals from damaging the plant. Agitating and mechanically separating these gooey glandular protrusions through filtration results in concentrated powders and solids known as kief and hashish.