Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about StrainCompass
About StrainCompass
What is StrainCompass?+
StrainCompass is the world's largest cannabis strain database with 62,000+ strains from 13 data sources. We provide lab-tested terpene profiles, THC/CBD data, effects, medical uses, and AI-powered recommendations.
Is StrainCompass free?+
Yes! Browsing strains, using TerpScout AI, and all discovery tools are completely free. We also offer a free API tier (100 requests/day) for developers.
Where does your data come from?+
We aggregate data from 13 trusted sources including Cannabis Intelligence DB, SeedFinder, strain-database.com, OpenTHC, Wikileaf, lab terpene databases, and more. Our AI enrichment pipeline fills gaps.
How often is the data updated?+
Our database is continuously updated. We run enrichment pipelines regularly to improve data quality, add new strains, and update existing profiles.
Can I contribute data?+
Yes! You can write reviews, submit strain requests for missing strains, and help verify data through community engagement.
Using the Platform
What is TerpScout AI?+
TerpScout is our AI recommendation engine. Describe what you're looking for in natural language — desired effects, flavors, time of day — and it searches 62,000+ strains to find your perfect match.
How does the Strain Quiz work?+
Answer 5 quick questions about your preferences (time of day, mood, tolerance, flavor, medical needs) and our AI matches you with ideal strains from the database.
Can I compare strains?+
Yes! Visit /compare to select up to 4 strains and see them side-by-side with effects, terpenes, THC/CBD, and growing info compared.
What are strain pairings?+
On each strain page, you can discover AI-suggested food, music, activities, and drinks that pair well with that strain's effects and terpene profile.
How do keyboard shortcuts work?+
Press ? on any page to see all shortcuts. Key ones: / for search, r for random strain, t for TerpScout, c for compare.
Cannabis Science
What are terpenes?+
Terpenes are aromatic compounds in cannabis that shape flavor, aroma, and effects. Myrcene promotes relaxation, Limonene uplifts mood, Caryophyllene reduces inflammation. Visit our Terpene Guide to learn more.
What's the difference between Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid?+
Traditionally, Indica = relaxing body effects, Sativa = energizing cerebral effects, Hybrid = balanced. Modern research suggests terpene profiles matter more than type classification.
What is the entourage effect?+
The theory that all cannabis compounds (cannabinoids + terpenes + flavonoids) work synergistically. The combined effect is greater than any single compound alone.
How accurate are THC percentages?+
THC percentages vary by phenotype, growing conditions, and testing lab. Our data represents typical ranges from multiple sources. Actual potency of your specific product may differ.
Account & API
Do I need an account?+
No account needed for browsing. Create a free account to save favorites, write reviews, track your journal, and manage collections.
How do I use the API?+
Create an account, go to Dashboard > API Keys, generate a key, and use it with our REST API. Free tier: 100 requests/day. See /api-docs for documentation.
Can I embed StrainCompass on my site?+
Yes! Use our embed widget: <iframe src="https://straincompass.com/embed" width="100%" height="500" />. It provides a searchable strain widget for your site.