Stress Response Summary
Your scores from the Stress & Energy assessment
Anxiety Score
??
0 - 4
11 - 15
5 - 9
7 - 10
10 - 14
4 - 6
15 - 21
1 - 3
, according to your score, TYPE 1 cannabis (high THC, low CBD) may be best suited for your level of anxiety. To learn more about the varieties of cannabis and what makes each one appropriate for a specific level of anxiety, see the section Types of Cannabis.
Depression Score
??
0 - 4
11 - 15
5 - 12
7 - 10
13 - 20
4 - 6
21 - 27
1 - 3
, according to your score, TYPE 1 cannabis (high THC, low CBD) may be best suited for your level of depression. In addition to the amount of THC, terpenes play a major role in how cannabis affects symptoms of depression. To learn more about how these chemicals have an on influence mood & cognition, see the section Cannabis Terpenes.
Types of Cannabis
Learn about the differences between the 3 primary cannabis classifications.
When you enter the world of cannabis, one of the things you’ll encounter is the barrage of choices, representing the many varieties of cannabis grown today. Things can get especially interesting (or confusing) if you try to base your choices solely on the names of these varieties (‘cotton candy’ anyone?).
These days, the type of cannabis being cultivated tends to get whatever name a grower decided to give to the cross-breeding of two unique varieties. With names like ‘Sour Diesel’ and ‘Cherry Pie’, how can anyone expect to get a sense of what a cannabis product will do for them?
The answer is…by reading the label!
If you look on the packaging of most cannabis products, you’ll typically find percentages for the most common ‘phytochemicals’, including THC, CBD, and terpenes. When you understand how the relative ratios of these chemicals produce certain ‘effects’, you will be able to identify the properties of a cannabis-derived product just by reading the label. In the meantime, this assessment provides you with examples that illustrate the ratios most relevant to achieving rapid results.
The Other 3 Types of Cannabis
Another way in which cannabis tends to get labeled is by the general ‘energetic’ effect. Cannabis that is more mentally/physically ‘stimulating’ is often labeled ‘sativa’, while more sedating varieties are usually labeled ‘indica’. And (as the name implies) everything in between is labeled ‘hybrid’.
Unfortunately, this labeling system has some drawbacks. Some varieties [for example] can be mentally stimulating but lack physical effects (such as calming the nervous system), while others of the same type produce strong effects on the mind and body. If you’re looking for a creative boost and a solution to your nervousness, being able to distinguish between ‘sativas’ suddenly becomes very important, especially if you want to avoid side effects like increased anxiety and paranoia.
So instead of classifying cannabis as either ‘sativa’, ‘indica’, or ‘hyrbid’, a more accurate model has been proposed by researchers and scientists in the field. This model categorizes cannabis by the relative ratios of the phytochemicals which produce the most therapeutic effects.
Here’s a brief overview of the categories for this model…
Type 1
THC Dominant
No relevant amount of CBD
Examples
Sour Diesel, Jack Herer
Type 2
THC/CBD Balanced
A relevant amount of CBD, from 2% to 50%
Examples
Pennywise, M7
Type 3
CBD Dominant
The amount of CBD is equal-to or greater than THC
Examples
Harlequin, Suzy Q
This model is used in the DREAM BIG system to classify cannabis in terms of the level of anxiety (or depression) it is best suited for. For example, studies have shown that high-CBD varieties (TYPE III) demonstrate the most positive response when treating symptoms of chronic stress conditions, such as PTSD and others. At the other end of the spectrum, cannabis with high levels of THC and low/no CBD (TYPE I) have been shown to work better for treating certain stages of depression.
Neuromodulation & Cannabis
Beyond the cannabinoids (ie. THC/CBD/CBG etc.), the most influential phytochemicals on mood & cognition are the terpenes found in all varieties. While not every terpene is represented in every cannabis variety, there are several that commonly appear. Terpenes create the flavors, aromas, and certain physical/psychological effects of cannabis. Among these, there are specific effects which result from changes to neurotransmitter function.
Since the DREAM BIG system relies on the synergy between strong neurotransmitter function & cannabis’ effects on neurotransmitters, it’s important to be aware of what makes that synergy possible. It is the combination of THC and terpenes that produces the profound effects on neurotransmitter function. In other words, using products devoid of this combination will yield little-to-no benefit. For this reason, full and broad spectrum extracts are generally the best sources, while anything labeled ‘isolate’ should be avoided.
The range of effects from terpenes can be categorized as either neuromodulating, immunomodulating, or antimicrobial. When it comes to applying the DREAM BIG system, the neurotransmitter(s) affected by a terpene becomes the main focus. The terpene limonene (responsible for the ‘bright’ scent of citrus) has a notable effect on dopamine & serotonin activity, and is partly responsible for certain anti-depressive benefits from cannabis. To learn more about terpenes, see the section titled Cannabis Terpenes.
Cannabis Terpenes
Learn about the phytochemicals responsible for many of the psychological benefits from cannabis.
understanding terpenes
When it comes to using cannabis for depression, terpenes become the main focus. Theses naturally-occurring chemicals are what provide many of the varied tastes, scents, physiologic, and psychoactive effects from cannabis. Cannabis’ reputation as a remedy for insomnia is a direct result of the action of terpenes.
A Tale two of Terpenes
The two most common terpenes, caryophyllene & myrcene, exhibit strong anti-inflammatory & sedative effects in combination with the cannabinoid THC. Some terpenes even modulate the effects of cannabinoids. An example is the terpene humulene, which increases cell membrane permeability so that more THC is taken up in tissues. As a result, cannabis varieties exhibiting high amounts of humulene tend to have a rapid onset of effects.
What’s important to know about terpenes is their effect when combined with cannabinoids like THC. For the most part, the effects of terpenes become ‘amplified’ in the presence of THC. Some terpenes act similarly to cannabinoids like CBD, which often creates a stronger cumulative effect.
Time Decay of Terpenes
Because terpenes are volatile compounds (high vapor pressure), their rate of decay (duration) is relatively short. That said, the variability in time decay between terpenes has an impact on how the effects from cannabis are experienced. Both the quantity and time decay of a terpene are important factors that determine how the effects of cannabis are experienced. A common example in which quantity and time decay have a major influence can be found in cannabis varieties with a high amount of myrcene. When this terpene is in abundance, effects tend to include sedation, especially toward the end of the overall duration. This is the result of myrcene’s influence on GABA expression, spread out over a comparatively long time-decay interval.
The Major Terpenes in Cannabis
While there are over 15 different terpenes commonly found in cannabis, there is a distinct subset predominantly expressed in most varieties. This subset of terpenes has become the focus of most studies for their effects and interactions with cannabinoids. The terpenes predominantly found in cannabis include caryophyllene, myrcene, limonene, humulene, pinene, and terpinolene. Other common terpenes (typically found in lesser amounts) include linalool, eucalyptol, bisabolol, geraniol, valencene, and ocimene.
Myrcene
Half-life
4.5 hours
Effects
antinociceptive, sedative/anxiolytic
Also found in
hops, mangoes, myrrh
Caryophyllene
Half-life
2.5 hours
Effects
anti-inflammatory, dopamine regulator
Also found in
cloves, black pepper, cinnamon
Terpinolene
Half-life
1.5 hours
Effects
endorphinergic
Also found in
sage, rosemary, confifers
Pinene
Half-life
1.5 hours
Effects
cholinergic
Also found in
dill, rosemary, conifers
Limonene
Half-life
45 minutes
Effects
anti-depressant
Also found in
lemon, lime, grapefruit
Humulene
Half-life
15 minutes
Effects
appetite suppressant
Also found in
hops, sage
??
0 - 4
11 - 15
5 - 9
7 - 10
10 - 14
4 - 6
15 - 21
1 - 3
- Review the types of cannabis displayed for your anxiety score.
- Review the examples, terpene profile & notes for each option to know what to look for in a cannabis product.
- Save items to your supplement stack that support your specific needs & goals.
Choosing the right cannabis for your level of anxiety comes down to selecting an appropriate ratio of THC-to-CBD along with a terpene profile that suits your neurotransmitter status.
Cannabis with high ratios of THC-to-CBD tend to work best when depressive symptoms outweigh those from anxiety. Low ratios (CBD greater or equal-to THC) tend to work better when anxiety is the dominant cause of mental health issues.
The terpene profile for a given type of cannabis can be used to target specific neurotransmitter dysfunctions. Profiles with high amounts of caryophyllene (for example) help regulate dopamine transmission to reduce cravings resulting from substance withdrawal.
, a few notes about cannabis for minimal anxiety
With only a minimal level of anxiety, you’re likely to benefit from TYPE I cannabis (high THC & low/no CBD) that will also target the neurotransmitters you want to improve. Depending on the time-of-day you want to affect certain neurotransmitters, some types may be better suited than others (refer to the ‘sun’ icons for suggested time-of-day dosing). Another factor to consider is whether you’ll be detoxing from sugar, alcohol, and/or caffeine. While some cannabis profiles offer specific benefits (such as craving & appetite suppression), others can impede your detox efforts (see the detox guide for more info). For minimal anxiety, cannabis profiles containing average to above-average amounts of THC (20-30%) with serotonergic and/or GABAnergic terpenes may be more effective in reducing anxiety. Refer to the neurotransmitter icons displayed on each cannabis profile for more info.
Cannabis for Minimal Anxiety
Terpene Profile for type 1 cannabis
Terpene Profile for type 1 cannabis
Primary Benefits
Applications
Cannabinoids
Terpenes
Description
Common Cultivars
Common Cultivars
See a list of common cannabis names that match the profile when you become a DREAM BIG member. Signup today and access other benefits like creating a personal list with filters for schedule, neurotransmitter, and more.
Terpene Profile for type 1 cannabis
Terpene Profile for type 1 cannabis
Primary Benefits
Applications
Cannabinoids
Terpenes
Description
Common Cultivars
Common Cultivars
Access a list of common cannabis names that match the profile when you become a member. Signup today to take advantage of other benefits like creating your supplement stack, accessing product recommendations, and more.
Terpene Profile for type 1 cannabis
Terpene Profile for type 1 cannabis
Primary Benefits
Applications
Cannabinoids
Terpenes
Description
Vestibulum ante ipsum primis in faucibus orci luctus et ultrices posuere cubilia Curae; Donec velit neque, auctor sit amet aliquam vel, ullamcorper sit amet ligula. Quisque velit nisi, pretium ut lacinia in, elementum id enim. Proin eget tortor risus. Donec sollicitudin molestie malesuada. Nulla quis lorem ut libero malesuada feugiat.
Common Cultivars
Common Cultivars
Access a list of common cannabis names that match the profile when you become a member. Signup today to take advantage of other benefits like creating your supplement stack, accessing product recommendations, and more.
type 1 cannabis
with CLM terpene profile
type 1 cannabis
with CLM terpene profile
Primary Benefits
Applications
Cannabinoids
Terpenes
Description
See the CLM cannabis profile for a description of this cultivar’s primary benefits & applications.
Want to see more options?
Access the complete list of cannabis profiles for ALL levels of depression.
??
0 - 4
11 - 15
5 - 12
7 - 10
13 - 20
4 - 6
21 - 27
1 - 3
- Review the supplements selected for your dopamine score.
- Choose options that best support your specific situation & goals.
- Check out the summary, benefits, & important info of each supplement for details.
Choosing the right cannabis for your level of depression comes down to having an appropriate amount of THC along with a terpene profile that suits your neurotransmitter status.
Cannabis profiles with higher-than-average amounts of THC tend to work best for depression, although the amounts of certain terpenes play an important role in addressing specific symptoms. Terpene profiles that are dopaminergic regulators may be more effective at managing depression that follows mania (ie. ‘bipolar depression’), while endorphinergic profiles may offer better support for depression caused by chronic pain or panic anxiety.[1] Profiles with serotonergic properties may be best suited for depression associated with chronic stress. Refer to the neurotransmitter icons displayed on each cannabis profile for more info.
, a few notes about cannabis for minimal depression
With only a minimal level of depression, you’re likely to benefit from TYPE I cannabis (high THC & low/no CBD) with a terpene profile that will target the neurotransmitters you want to improve. Depending on the time-of-day you want to affect certain neurotransmitters, some types may be better suited than others (refer to the ‘sun’ icons for suggested time-of-day dosing). Another factor to consider is whether you’ll be detoxing from sugar, alcohol, and/or caffeine. While some cannabis profiles offer specific benefits (such as craving & appetite suppression), others can impede your detox efforts (see the detox guide for more info). For minimal depression, cannabis profiles containing a moderate amount of THC (20% or less) with dopaminergic, noradrenergic, and serotonergic terpenes may be more effective. Depression stemming from chronic pain or panic anxiety may benefit from profiles that are endorphinergic. Refer to the neurotransmitter icons displayed on each cannabis profile for more info.
Cannabis for Minimal Depression
Terpene Profile for type 1 cannabis
Terpene Profile for type 1 cannabis
Primary Benefits
Applications
Cannabinoids
Terpenes
Description
Common Cultivars
Common Cultivars
See a list of common cannabis names that match the profile when you become a DREAM BIG member. Signup today and access other benefits like creating a personal list with filters for schedule, neurotransmitter, and more.
Terpene Profile for type 1 cannabis
Terpene Profile for type 1 cannabis
Primary Benefits
Applications
Cannabinoids
Terpenes
Description
Common Cultivars
Common Cultivars
Access a list of common cannabis names that match the profile when you become a member. Signup today to take advantage of other benefits like creating your supplement stack, accessing product recommendations, and more.
Terpene Profile for type 1 cannabis
Terpene Profile for type 1 cannabis
Primary Benefits
Applications
Cannabinoids
Terpenes
Description
Vestibulum ante ipsum primis in faucibus orci luctus et ultrices posuere cubilia Curae; Donec velit neque, auctor sit amet aliquam vel, ullamcorper sit amet ligula. Quisque velit nisi, pretium ut lacinia in, elementum id enim. Proin eget tortor risus. Donec sollicitudin molestie malesuada. Nulla quis lorem ut libero malesuada feugiat.
Common Cultivars
Common Cultivars
Access a list of common cannabis names that match the profile when you become a member. Signup today to take advantage of other benefits like creating your supplement stack, accessing product recommendations, and more.
type 1 cannabis
with CLM terpene profile
type 1 cannabis
with CLM terpene profile
Primary Benefits
Applications
Cannabinoids
Terpenes
Description
See the CLM cannabis profile for a description of this cultivar’s primary benefits & applications.
type 1 cannabis
with CLM terpene profile
type 1 cannabis
with CLM terpene profile
Primary Benefits
Applications
Cannabinoids
Terpenes
Description
See the CLM cannabis profile for a description of this cultivar’s primary benefits & applications.
Want to see more options?
Access the complete list of cannabis profiles for ALL levels of depression.
References
[1] Preter, Maurice, and Donald F. Klein. “Panic, Suffocation False Alarms, Separation Anxiety and Endogenous Opioids.” Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry, vol. 32, no. 3, Apr. 2008, pp. 603–612, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2325919/, 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2007.07.029.
