The Histochemical Analysis of Thymus Malyi Ronninger Glandular Trichomes

Abstract

The genus Thymus L. belongs to the family Lamiaceae, and comprises numerous aromatic species which are used for medical purposes and also as culinary herbs. Thymus malyi Ronninger is an endemic species from central Balkan which grows on serpentine hills. Histochemical analyses of the peltate and capitate glandular trichomes of Thymus malyi were carried out using light microscopy. Results of histochemical tests showed positive reaction to phenol compounds in the secretory heads of peltate trichomes. Positive reaction for terpenes was obtained in capitate trichomes and in the subcuticular spaces of peltate trichomes. Lipid reaction was positive in the stalk cell of the capitate trichomes, and in the peltate trichomes heads. Positive reaction for polysaccharides was observed in the secretory head of both types of glandular trichomes, with more intensive reaction in the capitate trichomes.