Field Guide
The High Sciense Field Guide
Know what's in your flower before you buy it.
"THC is one number. Your experience is made of dozens. Start here." — Dr. Sciense
Section 01
Terpenes
Next time you're about to place an order, pull this up. Terpenes are what actually shape your experience — the aroma, the effect, how long it lasts. Here are the eight worth knowing.
Myrcene
AromaEarthy, musky, herbal
EffectSedating, body relaxation
Best forRest · Pain relief
Limonene
AromaCitrus, bright, zesty
EffectMood lift, stress relief
Best forDaytime · Anxiety
Caryophyllene
AromaPepper, spice, wood
EffectAnti-inflammatory, calming
Best forStress · Inflammation
Linalool
AromaFloral, lavender, soft
EffectCalming, sleep support
Best forAnxiety · Insomnia
Pinene
AromaPine, fresh, sharp
EffectAlertness, memory retention
Best forFocus · Daytime
Terpinolene
AromaFresh, floral, herbal
EffectMildly sedating, antioxidant
Best forRelaxing without couch-lock
Ocimene
AromaSweet, herbal, woody
EffectUplifting, antiviral
Best forEnergy · Mood
Humulene
AromaEarthy, woody, hoppy
EffectAppetite suppressant, anti-inflammatory
Best forDaytime · Active use
Ask your budtender for the terpene panel on the COA. If they can't produce one — that's your answer.
Section 02
Cannabinoids Beyond THC
THC isn't working alone. Every compound below shapes your experience. Know what they do.
THC
Primary Psychoactive
Euphoria, pain relief, appetite stimulation. The one everyone knows — and the one everyone over-indexes on.
CBD
Non-Psychoactive Modulator
Softens THC's intensity. Anti-anxiety, anti-inflammatory. Acts as a ceiling on the high — useful if you're sensitive.
CBG
The Mother Cannabinoid
Precursor to most other cannabinoids. Focus, clarity, mood — without sedation. Rare in finished flower but worth hunting.
CBN
Sleep Cannabinoid
Forms as THC ages and oxidizes. Low psychoactivity, strong sedation. If you want to sleep, look for aged or CBN-rich products.
THCV
Energizing · Appetite Suppressant
Short-duration, stimulating. Suppresses appetite instead of triggering it. Best for active daytime use. Rare — mostly in African sativas.
CBC
Synergist
Anti-inflammatory, mood support. Doesn't do much solo — works best as part of a full-spectrum profile. The team player.
These work better together than alone. That's the entourage effect. A balanced profile beats a high THC number every time.