05. Botanik: Witch-hazel leaf surface (hamamelis virginiana)
Electron microscopy

The upper surface of a witch-hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) leaf. A branching hair cell or trichome is seen at lower right. Trichomes may function in reducing water loss or in defending the plant against insects. The blade of the leaf comprises a layer of epidermal cells (green), which protect the leaf and secrete a waxy cuticle.

Witch- hazel is used in herbal medicine to treat sprains, burns and skin inflammation. Coloured Scanning Electron Microscope, Magnification: x170.