Pollen
Pollen refers to a product obtained by collecting and sieving the trichomes found on hemp flowers. Despite its name, it is not the botanical pollen produced by male plants.
In the world of hemp, pollen refers to a product obtained from the trichomes found on flowers. Despite its name, it is not the botanical pollen produced by male plants, but a collection of resin glands separated from the plant material using various sieving or mechanical separation techniques.
Pollen is one of the traditional products derived from hemp. It is valued for its richness in cannabinoids, terpenes and other compounds naturally present in trichomes. It is also the raw material used to make many resins, including certain types of hash.
A historical designation
The term “pollen” has been used for several decades in the cannabis and hemp trade. Although botanically inaccurate, it has remained widely used to refer to the fine resinous particles collected when flowers are sieved.
In reality, true pollen is produced only by male flowers to ensure the plant’s reproduction. Pollen sold in the CBD sector, on the other hand, consists mainly of trichomes.
How is pollen obtained?
Pollen is generally obtained by mechanically sieving dried hemp flowers. The trichomes, which are more fragile than the plant material, detach and pass through sieves with different mesh sizes before being collected.
The quality of the product depends in particular on the variety cultivated, the density of the trichomes, the fineness of the sieving, and the care taken during harvesting, drying and handling of the flowers.
A trichome-rich composition
Pollen is mainly composed of trichomes, which naturally contain cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids and other compounds produced by hemp. Its composition varies according to the plant’s genetics, cultivation methods and manufacturing process.
Laboratory analyses make it possible to determine cannabinoid concentrations and verify the product’s compliance with applicable regulations.
Pollen and hash: what is the difference?
Pollen generally refers to the resinous material obtained directly after sieving the flowers. Hash, or resin, is often made from this pollen by compressing or processing it using different methods.
Pollen is therefore an intermediate stage in the production of many resins, even though some products are sold directly after sieving.
An iconic hemp product
Pollen now occupies an important place among hemp-derived products. Its relatively simple production, aromatic profile and similarity to the constituents naturally present in the plant make it one of the most representative products in the world of traditional concentrates.
