Follicle facts for kids

A follicle is like a tiny pouch or sac found in living things. It's a small group of cells that often contains a special space or a developing structure inside. You can find follicles in different parts of your body and even in plants!

What is a Follicle?

The word "follicle" comes from a Latin word meaning "small bag" or "pouch." This name fits perfectly because follicles are usually small, enclosed structures. They play many important roles, from helping your hair grow to protecting seeds in a fruit.

Follicles in Your Body

Many parts of your body have follicles, and each type has a special job. They are essential for growth, protection, and even reproduction.

Hair Follicles

You have millions of hair follicles all over your skin! These are tiny, tube-shaped structures that grow hair. Each hair follicle has a small blood supply that brings nutrients to the hair root, helping your hair grow long and strong. When you get goosebumps, tiny muscles attached to your hair follicles pull on them, making your hair stand up.

Ovarian Follicles

In females, ovarian follicles are found in the ovaries. These tiny sacs hold and protect developing egg cells. Each month, usually one ovarian follicle grows larger and releases a mature egg. This process is a key part of the reproduction cycle.

Other Body Follicles

• Dental follicles are found in your jaw before your teeth grow in. They are like little protective caps around developing teeth.
• Lymph follicles are part of your immune system, which helps your body fight off sickness. They are found in places like your lymph nodes and tonsils.
• Thyroid follicles are in your thyroid gland, a small gland in your neck. These follicles make and store hormones that control how your body uses energy.

Follicles in Plants

In the world of plants, a follicle is a type of dry fruit. It's special because it opens along only one side to release its seeds. Think of a pea pod, but one that splits open neatly down just one seam. Examples of plants with follicle fruits include milkweed and magnolia.